Savory Apple Sage Hand Pies with Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce

Ingredients

• •2 medium apples, peeled and diced
• •1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• •1 small onion, diced
• •2 teaspoons fresh sage, minced
• •1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• •1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• •1/4 teaspoon salt
• •1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• •1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• •1 package (14 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
• •1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• •2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• •1 tablespoon maple syrup
• •1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the diced onion until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Add the diced apples, minced sage, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly tender. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

4. 4

   Once cooled, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until evenly combined with the apple mixture.

5. 5

   Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a floured surface and cut out circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter) using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.

6. 6

   Place a spoonful of the apple filling in the center of each circle, being careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

7. 7

   Transfer the hand pies to the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with beaten egg to ensure a golden finish. Use a small knife to cut a tiny slit on the top of each pie for ventilation.

8. 8

   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and crisp.

9. 9

   While the pies bake, prepare the dipping sauce by whisking together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl until smooth.

10. 10

    Remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with the Maple Mustard Dipping Sauce on the side.