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Fried Pies Recipe

5 from 90 reviews

Crispy and delicious Fried Pies featuring a flaky homemade dough filled with sweet, thickened fruit filling. These hand pies are deep-fried to golden perfection and make a delightful treat dusted with powdered sugar.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
  • ½ cup cold water (or more as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Fruit Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (such as apples, peaches, or cherries), chopped
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on fruit sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added tartness)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for spiced fillings)

Frying:

  • Vegetable oil or sunflower oil for frying

Topping (Optional):

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If using, add vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine chosen fruit with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon if using. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the fruit softens—about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
  3. Roll out the Dough: Remove the chilled dough from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into 4-5 inch circles using a cutter or glass.
  4. Fill and Seal the Pies: Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled fruit filling into the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press edges tightly and crimp with a fork to seal completely.
  5. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat 2 inches of vegetable or sunflower oil to 350°F (175°C). Test by dropping a small dough piece; it should bubble and float when ready.
  6. Fry the Pies: Carefully place a few pies at a time into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently using tongs for even cooking.
  7. Drain and Serve: Remove fried pies and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust fruit filling sugar depending on the sweetness of chosen fruit.
  • Do not overwork dough when kneading to keep pies tender and flaky.
  • You can use fresh or canned fruit according to availability and preference.
  • Ensure oil temperature stays consistent for best frying results—too hot and pies burn, too cool and they absorb excess oil.
  • Store leftover pies in an airtight container and reheat in an oven for best texture.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to maintain steady oil temperature.
  • Chilling dough is essential to firm it up for easier rolling and handling.

Keywords: fried pies, hand pies, fruit pies, deep-fried dessert, flaky pie dough, homemade pies, sweet hand pies, fruit filling pies