Homemade Crispy Apple Hand Pies

Instructions

1. 1
   In a mixing bowl, combine the white flour and salt. Cut 3 tablespoons of the butter (make sure it's cold) into the flour using your fingers or a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2
   Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a shaggy dough forms. Form it into a ball, cover it, and let it rest while you make the filling.
3. 3
   Peel, core, and dice the soft apples into very small cubes.
4. 4
   Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced soft apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until the apples are very tender.
5. 5
   In a small bowl, mix the corn starch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour it into the skillet and stir constantly for 1 minute until a thick, gooey syrup forms. Stir in a squeeze of lemon juice, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. 6
   Divide your rested dough into 2 or 3 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece out into a long rectangle, about 1/8-inch thick.
7. 7
   Spoon the thickened apple filling onto one half of each dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. 8
   Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges down firmly, then use a fork to crimp and tightly seal the borders so they don't burst open while cooking.
9. 9
   Wipe out the skillet, add the vegetable oil, and place over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the pies.
10. 10
    Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the crust is golden brown, beautifully blistered, and crispy.
11. 11
    Transfer to a paper towel to drain. Let them cool for a few minutes before eating, as the inside will be molten hot!