McDonald’s Fried Apple Pies

McDonald’s Fried Apple Pies are a nostalgic favorite that many people remember fondly for their golden, crispy crust and warm, gooey apple filling. Unlike the baked version offered in some places today, the original fried version has an iconic crunch that complements the sweet and spiced apple interior perfectly. This homemade version brings that beloved treat right into your kitchen with simple, clean ingredients and a satisfying, flaky texture that rivals the original. Whether you’re recreating a childhood memory, preparing a unique dessert for a gathering, or just indulging in a cozy sweet snack, these fried apple pies offer comfort, crunch, and a burst of spiced apple goodness in every bite. Best of all, this recipe skips artificial ingredients and stays true to a wholesome, scratch-made approach.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Iconic Texture and Flavor

These pies deliver a crisp, golden exterior and soft, cinnamon-spiced apple filling just like the classic fast-food version, but made fresh at home.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Made with everyday pantry staples, this recipe creates a treat that’s flavorful, fragrant, and free from unnecessary additives.

Perfect for Sharing

Fried apple pies are the ultimate comfort dessert for parties, family dinners, or afternoon tea, and they’re easy to make in batches.

Customizable Filling

You can adjust sweetness, spice level, or even fruit variety to suit your taste preferences or seasonal produce.

Made from Scratch

This version features fresh apples and homemade pastry, giving you full control over ingredients and flavor.

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

Their handheld size, flaky crust, and warm filling make them fun to eat and loved by all ages.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Cooling time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 10 fried apple pies
• Serving Size: 1 pie

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 240
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 14g

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed (or plant-based butter alternative)
• 1/3 cup cold water (more if needed)

For Frying:

• Oil for deep frying (vegetable, sunflower, or neutral oil)

Optional:

• Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, for dusting
• Vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + drop of vanilla extract)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Filling

• In a small saucepan, combine diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until apples begin to soften.
• Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir into the apple mixture.
• Simmer until thickened (about 2 more minutes), then remove from heat and let cool.

2. Make the Dough

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
• Add cold butter cubes and cut in with a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add cold water and mix until dough forms.
• Knead briefly, then wrap in plastic and chill for 15–20 minutes.

3. Roll and Fill the Pies

• On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness.
• Cut into 4×6 inch rectangles or desired shape.
• Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of cooled apple filling onto one side of each rectangle.
• Fold over and press edges with a fork to seal tightly.
• Optional: brush the edges with a little water before sealing for extra hold.

4. Fry the Pies

• Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully place 2–3 pies in the oil at a time, frying for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

5. Add Toppings

• Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar while warm.
• Alternatively, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.

Ingredient Background

Apples

• Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji adds natural sweetness. Fresh apples offer better texture and flavor than canned alternatives.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg

• Warm spices that complement the apples and elevate the filling into a comforting, bakery-style flavor profile.

Cornstarch

• Helps thicken the apple filling without making it heavy or syrupy.

Homemade Dough

• Flaky and crisp, this dough is a simple pastry base that holds up perfectly when fried and adds rich flavor without overpowering the filling.

Oil

• Choose a neutral, high-smoke-point oil like sunflower or vegetable oil for clean frying and golden crispness.

Technique Tips

• Chill the dough to make rolling easier and ensure flakiness.
• Don’t overfill the pies — too much filling can cause them to burst during frying.
• Seal the edges firmly using a fork or crimping tool to prevent leakage.
• Monitor oil temperature carefully for even cooking and to avoid greasy pies.
• Drain well on paper towels to maintain crispness.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Apple Pie Pockets: Make smaller pies for bite-sized dessert platters.
• Apple Pie Rolls: Roll the filling in thin pastry strips and twist into spirals before frying.
• Baked Version: Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes for a lighter variation.
• Pie Pops: Insert a wooden stick before sealing and serve as handheld apple pie lollipops.
• Glazed Apple Turnovers: Shape into triangles and drizzle with glaze for a bakery-style finish.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use a thermometer to control oil temperature — fluctuations can result in soggy or undercooked pies.
• Prep the filling in advance to speed up assembly.
• Keep dough covered with a damp towel during assembly to prevent drying out.
• If you prefer a lighter option, air fry or bake with excellent results.
• Add a pinch of salt to the filling to enhance flavor complexity.

Recipe Variations

• Cinnamon Pear Pies: Substitute apples with diced pears and add a dash of ginger.
• Apple Cranberry Pies: Mix in dried cranberries for a tart and festive twist.
• Caramel Apple Pies: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce inside before sealing.
• Spiced Apple Chai Pies: Infuse filling with chai spices like cardamom, cloves, and allspice.
• Berry Apple Pies: Add blueberries or raspberries for a mixed fruit filling.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep fried pies in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to regain crispness.
• Freezing: Assemble pies, freeze uncooked on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags. Fry from frozen or thaw first for even cooking.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Bake instead of fry for a lower-fat version.
• Use whole wheat flour for a more fiber-rich crust.
• Replace butter with plant-based spread to reduce saturated fat.
• Add extra fruit to the filling for more natural sweetness and reduce added sugar.
• Use unsweetened applesauce as a filling alternative or in the dough for moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Holiday Dessert Table: Serve with other handheld pastries for a festive touch.
• Afternoon Tea Treat: Pair with chai tea or spiced coffee for a comforting snack.
• Brunch Buffet Addition: A sweet complement to savory brunch dishes.
• Kids’ Parties: Cut into fun shapes and dust with colored sugar.
• Picnic Treats: Wrap individually and serve at room temperature as a portable dessert.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Rolling pin
• Deep frying pan or heavy-bottomed pot
• Thermometer (for oil temperature)
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Baking sheet (for assembling and cooling)
• Cooling rack and paper towels

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?

• Yes, brush with melted butter or egg wash and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden.

2. Can I use store-bought dough?

• You can use refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry for convenience, but homemade dough offers the best texture and flavor.

3. What apples work best for the filling?

• Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp or Fuji for natural sweetness. A blend gives a balanced flavor.

4. How do I keep the pies from bursting during frying?

• Don’t overfill and seal the edges tightly. Also, avoid trapping air inside during sealing.

5. Can I make these ahead of time?

• Yes, assemble and refrigerate or freeze until ready to fry. Cook fresh for best results.

6. What kind of oil is best for frying?

• Use neutral oils with a high smoke point like vegetable, sunflower, or canola oil.

7. Can I add a glaze on top?

• Yes, mix powdered sugar, milk, and a drop of vanilla for a quick vanilla glaze drizzle.

8. How do I store leftovers?

• Keep in a sealed container. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness — avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

Homemade McDonald’s-style Fried Apple Pies are a nostalgic and delicious treat that’s surprisingly simple to recreate in your own kitchen. With a perfectly crisp crust, warm cinnamon-apple filling, and customizable toppings, these handheld pastries deliver all the comforting flavors of the original with a fresher, more wholesome twist.

Whether you’re making them for a cozy dessert, a celebratory gathering, or just to satisfy a classic craving, these pies are guaranteed to be a hit. Once you taste the golden crunch and fragrant filling fresh from your kitchen, you’ll never go back to store-bought again. They’re a timeless favorite made better at home — one bite and you’ll understand why they’ve remained so beloved for generations.

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