Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the diced apples with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside to allow flavors to develop.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a medium bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold butter and work it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing just until a dough forms.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it lightly, and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Chilling helps create flaky pastry.
Step 4: Roll and Cut
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut an even number of hearts.
Step 5: Fill the Pies
- Place half of the hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon a small amount of apple filling into the center of each, leaving space around the edges.
Step 6: Seal
- Place remaining dough hearts on top. Press edges gently with a fork to seal.
Step 7: Egg Wash
- Beat the egg lightly and brush the tops of the pies for a golden finish.
Step 8: Bake
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and slightly puffed.
Step 9: Cool and Finish
- Allow pies to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 4 days
Reheat in the oven at low heat to maintain crispness
Avoid microwaving to keep the pastry flaky
🥄 Variations
Customize these Valentine’s Day apple pies easily:
Extra Cinnamon Version: Add a pinch more cinnamon
Chunky Filling Version: Use larger apple pieces
Crispier Crust Version: Bake an additional 2–3 minutes
Mini Hand Pie Version: Cut smaller hearts for bite-sized pies
❓ 10 FAQs
Why use Granny Smith apples?
They hold their shape and balance sweetness well. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, up to one day in advance. How do I prevent leaking?
Avoid overfilling and seal edges well. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, though homemade gives better texture. Do these pies freeze well?
Yes, freeze unbaked pies and bake when needed. How do I get a shiny finish?
Egg wash creates a golden, glossy top. Are these good for kids?
Yes, they’re soft, sweet, and easy to eat. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just work in batches. What makes them Valentine-themed?
The heart shape and individual presentation. Should they be served warm or cool?
Warm is best for maximum comfort. 🏁 Conclusion These Valentine’s Day Apple Pies are the perfect way to show love through baking. With warm spiced apples and flaky pastry wrapped into charming heart shapes, they feel thoughtful, nostalgic, and irresistibly comforting. Simple to make yet beautiful to serve, they’re a dessert that truly comes from the heart.
They hold their shape and balance sweetness well. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, up to one day in advance. How do I prevent leaking?
Avoid overfilling and seal edges well. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, though homemade gives better texture. Do these pies freeze well?
Yes, freeze unbaked pies and bake when needed. How do I get a shiny finish?
Egg wash creates a golden, glossy top. Are these good for kids?
Yes, they’re soft, sweet, and easy to eat. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just work in batches. What makes them Valentine-themed?
The heart shape and individual presentation. Should they be served warm or cool?
Warm is best for maximum comfort. 🏁 Conclusion These Valentine’s Day Apple Pies are the perfect way to show love through baking. With warm spiced apples and flaky pastry wrapped into charming heart shapes, they feel thoughtful, nostalgic, and irresistibly comforting. Simple to make yet beautiful to serve, they’re a dessert that truly comes from the heart.