Flaky Caramelized Apple Hand Pies

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.

2. 2

   In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Add the sugar mixture to the apples and continue cooking for 7-8 minutes, or until the apples begin to soften and caramelize. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool completely.

3. 3

   Preheat the oven to 400°F. On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pie pastry sheets and roll them out to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut four 5-inch circles from each sheet. Place about 3 tablespoons of the apple filling on one half of each circle. Moisten the pastry edges with water, fold the pastry over the filling, and press the edges with a fork to seal. Alternatively, you can pinch the edges to seal and flute them.

4. 4

   Transfer the hand pies to greased baking sheets and prick the tops with a fork. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Remove the pies from the pans and transfer them to wire racks.

5. 5

   For the topping, mix the coarse sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush the warm hand pies with the melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve the hand pies warm or at room temperature, and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.