FRIED APPLE or PEACH PIES

Interesting Fact: Fried apple pies are a delightful Southern treat that combines a flaky pastry with sweet, spiced fruit filling. They are a nostalgic comfort food that’s perfect for snacking or dessert.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces dried apples or dried peaches
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tsp. cinnamon or apple pie spice
• 1 can jumbo refrigerated flaky biscuits
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine dried apples (or peaches) and water. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat, and simmer until tender, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Once done, remove from heat, let it cool, and mash the fruit slightly if the pieces are large. Stir in sugar and butter, then set the mixture aside.
2. If you’re using fresh apples, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large sauté pan. Add 4 peeled, cored, and chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, and 1 tsp lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 15 minutes or until the apples become soft. Remove from heat, mash them slightly, and let them cool.
3. Roll each biscuit into a 5-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the apple (or peach) mixture on half of each biscuit circle. Dip your fingers in water to moisten the edges of the circles, then fold them in half, ensuring the edges are even. Press the edges firmly together with a fork dipped in flour to seal.
4. In a heavy skillet or deep fryer, pour enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of 1/2 inch. Heat the oil to 370°F. Carefully fry the pies in the hot oil, turning them once, until they are golden brown. Be patient and don’t rush, as you want the biscuit to cook completely through.
5. Once done, drain the fried pies well on paper towels. This recipe should yield about 10 delicious pies.

Recipe Notes:

• Ensure a good seal at the edges when folding the pies, and avoid poking holes in them as you handle them.
• Be patient while frying to ensure the inside gets cooked thoroughly.
• Enjoy the most delicious Fried Apple or Peach Pies you’ve ever tasted!