Name: Southern Fried Apple or Peach Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 2 tsp sugar; ½ cup shortening or butter (cold); ½ cup milk (more if needed); 2 cups peeled, chopped apples or peaches (or canned/drained fruit); ⅓ cup sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tbsp butter; Optional: pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla; Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

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Southern Fried Apple or Peach Pies are crispy, golden pockets filled with sweet, spiced fruit filling. These hand pies are a nostalgic treat that bring the warmth of homemade fruit pie in a perfectly fried, flaky crust. Whether I use fresh apples or peaches, the result is always a comforting, delicious dessert or snack that reminds me of Southern hospitality and simple, joyful cooking.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

2 tsp sugar

½ cup shortening or butter (cold)

½ cup milk (more if needed)

For the Filling:

2 cups peeled, chopped apples or peaches (or use canned/drained fruit)

⅓ cup sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp butter

Optional: pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla

For Frying:

Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Dough:

I mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Then I cut in the shortening until the mixture looks crumbly. Next, I stir in the milk until a soft dough forms, kneading lightly just enough to bring it together. I let the dough rest while I prepare the filling.

Cook the Filling:

In a saucepan, I combine the chopped fruit, sugar, cinnamon, and butter. I cook it over medium heat until the fruit is tender and the mixture thickens, about 8 to 10 minutes. Then, I set it aside to cool.

Assemble Pies:

On a floured surface, I roll out the dough and cut it into 6-inch circles. I spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of filling onto one side of each circle, then fold it over and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them.

Fry the Pies:

I heat 1 to 2 inches of oil in a skillet to about 350°F (175°C). I fry the pies a few at a time, turning them until they’re golden brown on both sides, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes each. After frying, I drain them on paper towels.

Optional Glaze or Sugar Topping:

For extra sweetness, I sometimes dust the pies with powdered sugar, sprinkle cinnamon sugar, or drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with a little milk.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 to 10 pies, depending on how thick I roll the dough and how much filling I use per pie. It takes roughly 15 minutes to prepare the dough and filling, plus 20 minutes to fry all the pies. Overall, I can have these delicious treats ready in about 35 minutes.

Variations

I like to switch up the filling based on what’s in season or what I have available. Using fresh peaches in the summer adds a juicy sweetness, while tart apples are perfect in the fall. Sometimes, I add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla to deepen the flavor. If I want a shortcut, I use refrigerated pie crust or canned biscuit dough to save time. For a healthier twist, I bake the pies at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes instead of frying.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them crisp when reheating, I warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. If refrigerated, they can last up to 4 days but may lose some crispness. Reheating in a skillet or air fryer helps bring back that fresh-fried crunch.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the dough the day before, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Can I use frozen fruit for the filling?

I recommend thawing and draining frozen fruit first to avoid excess moisture, which can make the filling too watery.

Is it possible to bake these pies instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes works well and produces a lovely golden crust, though the texture will be different from frying.

What oil is best for frying?

I prefer vegetable or canola oil for frying because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

Can I make these pies vegan?

Yes, I can substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Apple or Peach Pies are a delightful way to enjoy classic fruit pie flavors with a crispy, golden crust. I love how easy they are to make, whether I fry them up for that authentic Southern taste or bake them for a lighter version. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a reliable go-to for a cozy dessert or snack that always brings a smile.

Recipe:

Southern Fried Apple or Peach Pies

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8 to 10 pies
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Southern Fried Apple or Peach Pies are crispy, golden pockets filled with sweet, spiced fruit filling. These hand pies offer a comforting, nostalgic treat with a tender yet crispy fried crust and a perfectly spiced fruit center, capturing the warmth of Southern hospitality.

Instructions

Mix flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Cut in shortening until mixture looks crumbly. Stir in milk until a soft dough forms, kneading lightly to bring it together. Let dough rest.
In a saucepan, combine chopped fruit, sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Cook over medium heat until fruit is tender and mixture thickens, about 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Roll out dough on a floured surface and cut into 6-inch circles. Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of filling onto one side of each circle. Fold over and crimp edges with a fork to seal.
Heat 1 to 2 inches of oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry pies a few at a time, turning until golden brown on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes each. Drain on paper towels.
Optionally, dust pies with powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.