Assembling and Frying

1. Add the Filling: Spoon a generous tablespoon of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each dough circle.
2. Seal and Crimp: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges firmly, sealing the pies shut.
3. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the pies, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Drain and Cool: Remove the fried pies from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: For an extra touch of sweetness, dust the fried apple pies with powdered sugar just before serving.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair these warm, crispy treats with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.

Tips and Tricks

• Perfect Pie Crust: For flakier pastry, make sure your pie dough is cold before frying. You can refrigerate the assembled pies for 30 minutes before frying to help prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain a consistent oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) throughout the frying process to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Leftover Dough: Use any leftover dough scraps to make decorative shapes or mini pies to enjoy as snacks or gifts.