Apricot and Peach Fried Pies are a delightful Southern treat that combines the sweetness of ripe apricots and peaches with a flaky, golden crust. These handheld pies are filled with a luscious fruit filling that’s perfectly balanced with a touch of sugar and a hint of cinnamon. Fried until crispy and warm, these pies are irresistible and make for a fantastic dessert or snack. Whether enjoyed plain or dusted with powdered sugar, these fried pies bring the comforting flavors of summer to your table in every delicious bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup fresh or canned peaches, chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 package refrigerated pie dough (or homemade pie dough)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apricots, peaches, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is soft and the mixture has thickened, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
- Roll the Dough: Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a round cutter or a small bowl, cut the dough into circles (about 5-6 inches in diameter).
- Fill the Pies: Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of the fruit filling into the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative finish.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Pies: Fry the pies in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the pies from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Dust the fried pies with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm.
These Apricot and Peach Fried Pies are the perfect blend of sweet, fruity filling and crispy, flaky crust, making them a nostalgic and delicious dessert for any occasion!
