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Southern Fried Pies

These Southern Fried Pies are a delightful combination of flaky pastry filled with sweet fruit, perfect for sharing and reminiscent of family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 pies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes Keep butter cold for a flakier crust.
  • 1/2 cup cold water Add more as needed.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Filling
  • 2 cups fresh or canned fruit (such as apples, peaches, or cherries), chopped Adjust amount depending on desired filling.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adjust to taste depending on fruit sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) For added tartness.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) For spiced fillings.
Frying
  • as needed Vegetable oil or sunflower oil for frying Heat to 350°F (175°C).
  • as needed Powdered sugar for dusting

Method
 

Dough Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add chilled butter and work into flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add vanilla extract if using.
  3. Gradually add cold water until dough begins to come together.
  4. Knead gently on a floured surface until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Filling Preparation
  1. In a saucepan, combine fruit, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until thickened and soft, about 10 minutes.
  2. Let cool.
Assembly and Frying
  1. Remove dough from fridge, roll out to 1/8 inch thickness, and cut into 4 to 5-inch circles.
  2. Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of fruit filling into each circle. Fold over and crimp edges to seal.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Fry pies in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Drain on paper towels.

Notes

Serve these warm, fresh from the skillet, with a dusting of powdered sugar. They are great with vanilla ice cream or coffee. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.