Perfect Portion Crispy Apple Hand Pies

Instructions

1. 1
   In a small mixing bowl, combine the white flour and salt. Cut 2 tablespoons of cold butter into the flour using a fork or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse sand.
2. 2
   Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a shaggy dough forms. Gently press it into a ball, cover it, and set aside while you make the filling.
3. 3
   Melt the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add your precisely measured 1.5 cups of chopped soft apples, along with the brown sugar and cinnamon. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until the apples are very tender.
4. 4
   In a small dish, whisk the corn starch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir constantly for about 1 minute until the juices form a thick, sticky glaze. Stir in a quick squeeze of lemon juice, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
5. 5
   Divide the rested dough into 2 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece out into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick.
6. 6
   Spoon the thickened apple filling evenly onto one half of each dough rectangle, making sure to leave a border around the edges.
7. 7
   Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to create a small pocket. Press the edges down firmly, then use the tines of a fork to crimp and tightly seal the borders.
8. 8
   Wipe out the skillet, add the vegetable oil, and place over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the pies in the pan.
9. 9
   Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the crust is deeply golden brown, crispy, and beautifully blistered.
10. 10
    Transfer the hot pies to a paper towel to drain. Let them cool for a few minutes before biting into them, as the inside will be molten hot!