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.

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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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.

Notes

Use fresh, canned, or thawed frozen fruit (drain excess moisture).

Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before rolling.

For a healthier option, bake pies at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes instead of frying.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Reheat in oven, skillet, or air fryer to restore crispness.

Butter and milk can be substituted with vegan alternatives to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Frying (optional baking)
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pie
Calories: Approx. 250-300
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 15mg