Description
These Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies offer a delightful combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet apple filling wrapped in a crispy, golden fried crust. Perfect as a comforting dessert or a special treat, they are easy to make with refrigerated pie crusts and filled with a luscious blend of cream cheese, cinnamon-spiced apples, and a touch of vanilla. Whether fried to perfection or baked for a lighter option, these mini pies deliver irresistible flavor and texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
Filling
- 1½ cups apple pie filling, chopped
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying & Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Optional powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Dough Circles: Roll out the pie crusts on a clean surface and use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut circles about 4 inches in diameter.
- Mix Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare Apple Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped apple pie filling with the cinnamon to evenly coat the apples with the spice.
- Fill Pies: Place a small spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each dough circle, then top it with a spoonful of the cinnamon apple filling.
- Seal the Pies: Fold the dough circles over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges down firmly with a fork to seal completely and prevent any filling from leaking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush each pie with the beaten egg to ensure a glossy, golden finish when fried.
- Heat Oil for Frying: In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), suitable for frying.
- Fry the Pies: Carefully place the pies into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crisp.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the fried pies with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Optional Dusting: While still warm, dust the pies with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- You can bake these pies at 375°F for 15–18 minutes if you prefer a lighter, less oily version.
- Try other pie fillings such as cherry or blueberry for different flavors.
- Ensure oil temperature is maintained at 350°F for even frying and to avoid greasy pies.
- Use a thermometer for precise frying temperature to achieve the perfect crispness.