Description
Crispy, Golden Fried Pies are a beloved Southern classic — golden, flaky hand pies filled with warm, gooey fruit filling and fried to perfection. Whether filled with apple, peach, or cherry, these nostalgic treats deliver all the comfort of homemade pie in a perfectly portable form. With a buttery crust and dusting of powdered sugar, each bite tastes like sweet Southern sunshine.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp granulated sugar
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ cup chilled unsalted butter, cubed
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½ cup cold water (more if needed)
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1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
For the Fruit Filling (choose one):
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2 cups chopped fruit (apples, peaches, cherries, etc.)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp cornstarch
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1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
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1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For Frying & Topping:
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Vegetable or sunflower oil, for frying
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Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
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Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in vanilla if using, then gradually add cold water until a soft, non-sticky dough forms. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes. -
Prepare the Filling:
In a saucepan, combine fruit, sugar, cornstarch, and optional lemon juice and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 10 minutes). Let cool completely. -
Assemble the Pies:
Roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛-inch thick. Cut into 4–5 inch circles. Spoon cooled fruit filling onto one side, fold over, and crimp edges with a fork to seal. -
Fry the Pies:
Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry pies for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Cool slightly, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm.
Notes
Keep butter and water very cold for the flakiest crust.
Avoid overfilling — excess filling causes leaks during frying.
Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F oil temperature for even frying.
For a lighter option, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, brushing with egg wash beforehand.
Store at room temperature for 2 days, refrigerate up to 5 days, or freeze up to 2 months.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Southern American