Fried apple pies

Step 2: Make the Dough

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Buttermilk: Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the butter remains cold, resulting in a flaky crust.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a small bowl (approximately 6 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the pies to burst during frying.
Seal the Edges: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers, then seal them further by crimping with a fork.

Step 4: Fry the Pies

Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
Fry the Pies: Carefully place 2-3 pies in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Drain the Pies: Remove the pies from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Allow the pies to cool slightly, then dust them with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips for Perfect Fried Apple Pies

Use the Right Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith hold up well during cooking and balance the sweetness of the filling.
Keep the Dough Cold: Work quickly with the dough and refrigerate it as needed to prevent the butter from melting.
Monitor the Oil Temperature: Consistent oil temperature is key to evenly cooked, golden pies. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
Experiment with Fillings: While apple is classic, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches, cherries, or berries.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the pies and refrigerate them for up to a day before frying, making them perfect for entertaining.

Conclusion

Fried apple pies are a timeless dessert that combines the warmth of spiced apples with the satisfying crunch of a golden, flaky crust. By following these steps, you can recreate this classic treat at home, delighting your family and friends with a taste of Southern tradition. Whether for a holiday gathering, a picnic, or a sweet indulgence on a rainy day, fried apple pies are always a good idea. Enjoy!