Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies Recipe

Get ready for a treat that delivers pure joy in every bite! Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies are the dessert you never knew you needed, combining sweet-tart apples, a creamy cheesecake core, and a crispy cinnamon-sugar shell. Every pie offers layers of texture and taste: buttery pastry, dreamy cream cheese, and cozy apple pie filling all melded together, then finished with a glorious cinnamon-sugar dusting. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something special with your coffee, these pies bring all the nostalgia of classic fried pies with a decadent twist. They might just become your new favorite sweet escape!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of humble ingredients can turn into a show-stopping dessert! Each component plays a crucial role, from golden pastry to that irresistible cinnamon sugar crunch. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters:

• Refrigerated Pie Crusts: The secret shortcut for flaky pockets—convenient, quick, and wonderfully tender.
• Apple Pie Filling (chopped): Brings in those classic fall flavors and juicy, tart sweetness in every bite.
• Cream Cheese (softened): Adds rich, tangy smoothness, creating that dreamy cheesecake layer inside.
• Powdered Sugar: Lightly sweetens the cream cheese filling without any graininess.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances aroma and delivers that bakery-style warmth to the cheesecake center.
• Cinnamon: Comes in both the filling and coating for a cozy, spicy backbone that’s essential here.
• Egg: Acts as the glue, helping the hand pies seal tightly for frying.
• Vegetable or Canola Oil (for frying): Produces that golden, crispy exterior—make sure it’s neutral in flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Melts slightly onto warm pies for the signature sparkling finish.
• Cinnamon (for coating): Swirls together with the sugar coating, taking these pies over the top.

How to Make Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

Unroll your refrigerated pie crusts and give them a light roll-out, just enough to even out the surface and relax the dough. Cut each crust into four equal shapes—circles if you love a classic look, rectangles for a rustic vibe. These pieces will be the perfect vessels for all that delicious filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until ultra-smooth and creamy. This layer is the secret to that cheesecake surprise! Make sure everything is well-mixed, as any lumps will show up in your pie’s texture.

Step 3: Fill and Shape the Pies

Place a generous spoonful of your cream cheese mixture in the center of each dough piece. Top with a scoop of chopped apple pie filling, making sure you don’t overfill—just enough for a bubbling bite but not so much that it escapes! Fold the dough over, creating a half-moon or rectangle, and press the edges with a fork to firmly seal. This not only looks pretty but also keeps those heavenly flavors locked inside.

Step 4: Seal with Egg Wash

Whisk your egg and use it as an egg wash, brushing it around the edges before sealing. This helps the pie stay together during frying and gives you that golden hue. You can also lightly brush the tops for extra shine and color.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the pies in small batches—don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side or until each pie is crisp and deeply golden. Drain them on paper towels; they should sound crunchy when they hit the plate.

Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While the pies are still invitingly warm, gently toss them in a shallow dish filled with your mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. Every pie should sparkle and smell intoxicatingly sweet and spicy—this is the moment your kitchen will smell like pure happiness!

How to Serve Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of extra powdered sugar or a swirl of whipped cream is all these beauties need. If you’re feeling a little fancy, a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted pecans transforms each pie into a work of art. Remember, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting alongside a warm pie is one of life’s great pleasures!

Side Dishes

These pies are a star on their own, but for an indulgent dessert spread, pair them with a fresh fruit salad, a tangy yogurt parfait, or a mug of strong, aromatic coffee. For parties, they pair beautifully with a scoop of sorbet or a dollop of spiced whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful touch, serve Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies tucked into mini parchment sleeves or nestled on a platter of autumn leaves for a rustic feel. Stack them high in a pie tower for a show-stopping centerpiece, or individually plate them atop a swirl of caramel for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any pies left (though that’s a rare event!), let them cool completely before storing. Arrange them in an airtight container, layering with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep their magic in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Want to keep the sweet pleasures going? Freeze your Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies before frying by wrapping and sealing them tightly, then storing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just fry or air fry from frozen, adding a couple more minutes to the cook time. After frying, you can also freeze leftovers; reheat in the oven for best texture.

Reheating

To restore that fresh-from-the-fryer crispness, pop pies in a preheated 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes (if refrigerated) or a bit longer if frozen. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy. The air fryer is another excellent option for a quick pick-me-up!

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple pie filling?

Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling will bring even more depth of flavor and lets you control the sweetness and spice. Just make sure to chop the apples finely and let the filling cool before stuffing the pies.

What if I don’t have a deep fryer?

No worries at all! A heavy skillet or Dutch oven works perfectly. Just make sure you monitor the oil temperature and use enough oil so the pies can float and cook evenly on all sides.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Definitely. While the classic version is fried for an unmatched crispiness, you can bake these on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes. Brush the tops with egg wash for extra shine and color. You’ll still get an irresistible treat!

How can I make these ahead?

You can assemble and seal the pies, then refrigerate them for several hours or overnight before frying. This makes entertaining a breeze when you’re hosting friends or family and want fresh pies on demand.

Are Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies gluten free?

The original recipe uses regular pie crust, which contains gluten. However, you can easily swap in a store-bought or homemade gluten-free pie crust to enjoy these pies without gluten!

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic and absolutely irresistible about Stuffed Cheesecake Fried Apple Pies. Whether you’re making them for a festive brunch, sharing at a potluck, or treating yourself after a long week, each hand pie is a mouthwatering mix of comfort and celebration. Give them a try for your next dessert craving—you’ll be making memories (and new favorites) with every bite!

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