Fall-Inspired Apple and Pear Hand Pies

Ingredients

• 1 large Pink Lady apple - peeled, cored and diced
• 1 large Bartlett pear - peeled, cored and diced
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 recipe pastry for a 9-inch double crust pie
• 2 tablespoons coarse granulated sugar, or as needed (Optional)
• ½ cup dark chocolate chips (Optional)

Step 1

Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix together the chopped apple, pear, brown sugar, vanilla, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.

Step 2

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pastry dough. Use a 3- to 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles. Spoon a little of the fruit filling onto the center of each circle, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, and if you like, use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice finish. Place the pies on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 3

Use a sharp knife to make three small slits on top of each pie to let steam escape. Whisk together an egg and a splash of water, then brush this over the pies’ tops. Sprinkle a bit of decorating sugar on them for some sparkle.

Step 4

Pop the pies in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden. Let them cool on a rack for around 20 minutes before moving on.

Step 5

If you want, melt some chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl by heating in 15-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled pies for a delicious finishing touch.