fried-apple-or-peach-pies

fried-apple-or-peach-pies

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups peeled and finely chopped apples or peaches (about 2-3 medium-sized fruits)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken, if needed)

For the Dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2/3 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 4-6 tablespoons ice water

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil for frying

For Dusting:

  • Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions:

Filling:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples or peaches, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. If the filling seems too runny, add a tablespoon of flour to thicken it.
  2. Cook the fruit mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until the fruit is softened, and the mixture thickens slightly. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Allow it to cool.

Dough:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assembly and Frying:

  1. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
  2. Cut out rounds using a round cutter (about 4-6 inches in diameter).
  3. Place a spoonful of the cooled fruit filling onto one half of each round.
  4. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Carefully place the pies in the hot oil, frying until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).
  7. Remove the pies from the oil and drain on paper towels.
  8. Optional: Dust the fried pies with powdered sugar before serving.
  9. Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious fried apple or peach pies!