Description
Delight in these decadent Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies, featuring a creamy cheesecake filling combined with classic spiced apple pie filling inside a crispy, golden fried crust. Perfectly rolled and fried to perfection, these hand pies offer a warm, indulgent dessert experience, enhanced by a cinnamon sugar coating and optional caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Ideal for fall gatherings or any time you crave a comforting, fried treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Apple Filling
- 2 cups apple pie filling (chopped into small pieces)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pie Crust and Coating
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Serving
- Caramel sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a small bowl, mix the chopped apple pie filling with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Cut Pie Crusts: Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts and, using a 5-inch cutter or a small bowl, cut the dough into circles to create the base for the pies.
- Assemble Pies: On each dough circle, place 1 tablespoon of the cheesecake filling followed by 1 tablespoon of the apple mixture. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Brush the edges with beaten egg wash to ensure a tight seal during frying.
- Heat Oil for Frying: In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Monitor the temperature carefully for even cooking.
- Fry the Pies: Fry the pies in batches, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn a rich golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the fried pies and drain on paper towels. In a shallow dish, mix granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then roll the warm pies in this mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve: Present the pies warm, optionally drizzling with caramel sauce for added sweetness and indulgence.
Notes
- For a baked alternative, brush the sealed pies with egg wash and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- These pies can be prepared ahead of time and reheated in an oven or air fryer for convenience.
- Make sure to monitor oil temperature closely to prevent greasy or undercooked pies.
- Use a gentle hand when sealing edges with a fork to avoid filling leakage during frying.
