Fried Apple or Peach Pies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced apples or peaches (fresh, canned, or frozen—peeled and chopped)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or 1 batch homemade pie dough
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples or peaches, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until the fruit softens and releases its juices.
2. Thicken the Mixture:
   Add the cornstarch-water mixture and stir constantly until the filling thickens—about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before assembling the pies.
3. Prepare the Dough:
   Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick. Use a 4–5 inch round cutter (or a small bowl) to cut out circles from the dough. Gather and re-roll scraps to make more rounds if needed.
4. Assemble the Pies:
   Place about 1 tablespoon of cooled filling in the center of each dough circle. Moisten the edges with a little water, then fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal tightly.
5. Fry the Pies:
   Pour oil into a deep skillet or pot to about 1 inch deep and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place 2–3 pies into the oil at a time. Fry each side for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Dust and Serve:
   While still warm, dust the pies generously with powdered sugar or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
7. Optional Glaze:
   For a sweeter touch, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons milk and drizzle over the cooled pies.

Tips:

• Make sure the filling is cool before adding it to the dough to avoid leaks.
• You can bake them instead of frying: brush with egg wash and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes until golden.
• These are delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.