Name: Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies That Warm Your Fall Days
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Gluten Free Multi-Purpose Flour (Cup4Cup works best for flakiness.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Cold and cut into small pieces.); 1/4 cup Full Fat Sour Cream (Substitutes for ice water.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Essential in gluten-free recipes.); 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust according to the brand.); 3 cups Tart Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (For sautéing the apples.); 1/4 cup Domino® Light Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel.); 1/4 cup Domino® Golden Sugar (Substitutes white sugar 1:1.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Thickens the apple filling.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adds a warm, spiced flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger (A little goes a long way.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Classic spice for any apple dish.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Elevates the overall flavor.); 1 tablespoon Coarse Sugar (For added sweetness and crunch.); 1 large Egg (For egg wash.)

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As the crisp autumn air starts to sweep through, there’s a comforting warmth that comes from the kitchen—the smell of baking apple hand pies is hard to resist. These Flaky Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies bring together a delightful blend of buttery, flaky crust and a spiced apple filling crafted with Domino® Golden Sugar, creating a seasonal treat that makes your taste buds dance. Not only are they a festive indulgence perfect for gatherings, but they also allow you to enjoy homemade goodness without the gluten. Picture these gorgeous little pockets of joy, warm from the oven, served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce. Are you ready to delve into the art of hand pie making and embrace this cozy fall favorite?

Why Are Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies Amazing?

Warmth of Autumn: These hand pies capture the essence of fall with their spiced apple filling, bringing cozy vibes to your kitchen.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll be whipping up a batch of these delicious treats in no time, making it a perfect recipe for both novice and experienced bakers.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking to please your family, these hand pies are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap apples for peaches or pears, allowing you to tailor each batch to your taste preferences.
Delightful Texture: The flaky crust and warm filling create a perfect contrast, making every bite a treat for the senses.
Serve with Style: Elevate your dessert game by pairing these pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Gluten Free Apple Hand Pie Ingredients

For the Crust

Gluten Free Multi-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure; Cup4Cup works best for flakiness.
Unsalted Butter – Key for creating a flaky crust; ensure it’s cold and cut into small pieces.
Full Fat Sour Cream – Adds moisture and flavor, making it a perfect substitute for ice water.
Baking Powder – Helps create a tender, lighter crust; essential in gluten-free recipes.
Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of the crust; adjust according to the brand you use.

For the Filling

Tart Apples – Use varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness.
Unsalted Butter (for filling) – Enhances the apples’ flavor when sautéed until tender.
Domino® Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel; perfectly complements the apples.
Domino® Golden Sugar – Provides rich sweetness and depth, and substitutes white sugar 1:1.
Cornstarch – Thickens the apple filling and improves the overall texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm, spiced flavor to the filling that embodies autumn.
Ground Ginger – Provides a zesty kick to the apple filling; a little goes a long way.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth; a classic spice for any apple dish.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor of the filling, making it truly scrumptious.

For the Topping

Coarse Sugar – Sprinkled on top for added sweetness and a crunchy texture.
Egg (for egg wash) – Ensures a beautiful golden finish once baked; do not skip this!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a food processor, combine gluten-free multi-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Pulse briefly to mix together, then add cold, diced unsalted butter, and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, add full-fat sour cream, pulsing until it forms a cohesive dough with pea-sized butter pieces. Gather the dough into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow it to firm up.

Step 2: Roll and Fold the Dough
After chilling, lightly flour a clean surface with gluten-free flour and roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Use the tri-fold method by folding the dough into thirds, then rotating it 90 degrees. Roll out again into a rectangle and repeat this folding process 2 more times to develop flakiness. Wrap it once more and refrigerate for another 10-15 minutes to keep the dough cold.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, peel, core, and dice your tart apples into small pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and sauté the diced apples until they are tender and slightly caramelized, approximately 5-10 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and mix in Domino® Light Brown Sugar, Domino® Golden Sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool completely before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Once the dough is ready, roll it out again to about 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a round cutter to cut out circles, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling onto one half of each dough circle, ensuring to leave enough space around the edges for sealing. Brush the edges with an egg wash, then fold the other half of the circle over the filling and press to seal, crimping the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.

Step 5: Chill Before Baking
Arrange the assembled gluten-free apple hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for 30 minutes. This chilling step helps maintain the shape during baking and ensures a flaky texture. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F, placing a baking sheet inside to warm up.

Step 6: Bake the Hand Pies
Once chilled, carefully remove the baking sheet from your oven. Cut small slits on top of each pie for steam release, then brush the tops with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake the gluten-free apple hand pies in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 365°F and continue baking until golden brown, about 15 minutes longer, or until they’re beautifully crisp and aromatic.

Step 7: Allow to Cool
After baking, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling step will help them firm up slightly. Enjoy your warm Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies on their own or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel drizzles for an indulgent treat!

Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful little pies—there’s no limit to how you can make them your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative and sour cream with plant-based yogurt for a delicious non-dairy option. You won’t miss the creaminess!
Fruit Mix-Up: Swap apples for peaches or pears for a fresh twist on the classic flavor. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness, making it versatile for any palate.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of maple syrup to the filling for an unexpected kick of heat or sweetness. This simple addition can transform the entire flavor profile.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in some finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the apple mixture for added texture and a delightful crunch. They complement the fruit beautifully!
Apple Pie Spice: Instead of individual spices, use a pre-made apple pie spice mix to streamline your seasoning. It captures the essence of fall in a single scoop.
Mini Hand Pies: Cut the dough into smaller circles for bite-sized snacks. Perfect for parties or just for when you’re craving something sweet without overindulging.
Glazed Finish: Once baked, drizzle the pies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finishing touch. It adds an elegant flair to your dessert!
Ultimate Indulgence: Serve the pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a truly decadent experience. It’s a hug in dessert form!

Let your imagination run wild and make each batch uniquely yours while celebrating the simplicity of homemade goodness.

What to Serve with Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies

As the aroma of these delightful hand pies fills your home, it’s time to think about what will accompany them for the perfect meal experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a luscious dimension, balancing the warm, spiced apple filling beautifully.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this rich, sweet sauce over the hand pies enhances their sweetness, offering a touch of indulgence.
Crisp Salad: A simple mix of greens with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, warm flavors of the pies.
Hot Apple Cider: This spiced drink amplifies autumn vibes, making every bite of hand pie feel like a cozy hug.
Chai Tea: With its warm spices, chai pairs wonderfully, creating a comforting experience that complements the fall flavors beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop on top of each pie offers a soft contrast to the flaky pastry, elevating the dessert even further.
Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts to add a savory sweetness that contrasts with the dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, adding a drizzle of rich chocolate creates a decadent experience that will delight every palate.

Make Ahead Options

These Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies are perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily prepped in advance! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours ahead; simply store the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator and refrigerate the cooled filling in an airtight container. When you’re ready to assemble, roll out the dough, fill, and crimp the edges. Remember to chill the assembled hand pies for 30 minutes before baking to ensure they hold their shape. This way, you’ll enjoy homemade goodness with minimal effort, saving you valuable time while still achieving delicious results!

Expert Tips for Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies

Keep Ingredients Cold: Maintaining cold butter and sour cream is essential for a flaky crust. Warm ingredients can lead to a tough texture in your gluten free apple hand pies.
Avoid Overfilling: Less is more! Overfilling can cause spillage during baking. Aim for just a spoonful of filling in each hand pie.
Chill Before Baking: Don’t skip the refrigeration step before baking. Chilling the assembled pies helps them hold their shape and enhances flakiness in the crust.
Watch Baking Times: If you’ve altered the size of your hand pies, keep a watchful eye on the baking time to avoid over or under-baking.
Parchment Paper Magic: Using parchment paper for rolling out dough prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

How to Store and Freeze Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Store hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer storage, keep the pies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat in the oven to restore that warm, flaky texture.

Freezer: Unbaked gluten free apple hand pies can be frozen for up to two weeks. Line them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen without thawing.

Reheating: To reheat, place pies in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they regain their desired crispiness.

Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my apples are ripe for pie filling?
Absolutely! For the perfect filling, opt for tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Look for apples that are firm without any soft spots, and the skin should be smooth and vibrant in color. A hint of sweetness with a tart flavor will provide a delightful balance in your hand pies!

What’s the best way to store leftover hand pies?
Very simple! Store your Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to one week, reheating in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Can I freeze unbaked hand pies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies, first arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to two weeks. Bake directly from frozen without thawing—just add an extra few minutes to the baking time for best results!

Why is my crust not flaky?
Oh no! If your crust isn’t flaky, it could be due to overworking the dough or using warm ingredients. Make sure to keep your butter and sour cream very cold and avoid over-pulsing the dough in the food processor. A gentle, steadfast hand is your best friend here!

What ingredients should I avoid if I have certain dietary restrictions?
The lovely thing about these Gluten Free Apple Hand Pies is their versatility! If you’re making them for someone with dairy allergies, substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free version and the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt. Always review each ingredient to accommodate allergies and ensure everyone enjoys these seasonal delights.

How can I achieve a shiny finish on my hand pies?
For that beautiful golden shine, don’t skip the egg wash! Use a whisked egg to brush over the top just before baking. It will help not only with color but also with applying the coarse sugar, creating that lovely crunchy topping you crave.