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As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, the allure of fall flavors emerges, inviting us to indulge in comforting desserts that evoke nostalgia and warmth. One delightful treat that encapsulates the essence of autumn is the gooey caramel apple hand pie. This recipe combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of apples, all wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust, making it the perfect dessert for cozy evenings at home or festive gatherings with friends and family.

Gooey Caramel Apple Hand Pies – A Portable Fall Treat!

Indulge in the taste of fall with these gooey caramel apple hand pies. Perfectly combining sweet caramel with tart apples nestled in a flaky crust, these portable treats are a delightful addition to cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Easy to make, they're ideal for bakers of all levels. Discover the step-by-step process, essential ingredients, and baking tips to ensure your hand pies are a hit. Embrace the season with this comforting homemade dessert!
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Ingredients
  

2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced

1 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 package (2 sheets) of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie crust)

1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

1 egg (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

Pinch of sea salt

Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions
 

Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to coat the apples. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples are slightly tender.

    Thicken the Mixture: Sprinkle the cornstarch over the apple mixture and mix well. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Stir in the caramel sauce until well combined. Set aside.

      Prepare the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface and cut each sheet into 4 squares (about 4 inches each).

        Fill the Pockets: On one half of each square, place a generous tablespoon of the apple filling. Be careful not to overfill! Fold the other half of the square over and press to seal the edges. Use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra tight seal. Repeat with remaining pastry squares.

          Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden color when baked. Use a sharp knife to cut small slits in the tops of the pastries to allow steam to escape.

            Bake the Hand Pies: Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

              Drizzle and Serve: Once baked, let the hand pies cool slightly. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top, and if desired, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve warm or at room temperature.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 45 min | 8 servings