Fried Apple Pie Balls Recipe: A Golden, Cinnamon-Infused Treat That’s Ready in Minutes

Thank you so much for joining me today—it truly means a lot! Whether you’re browsing for your next cozy kitchen project or hunting for a simple yet heartwarming dessert, you’re in the right place. This Fried Apple Pie Balls recipe is something special. Picture all the comfort and warmth of a traditional apple pie, but wrapped into a golden, bite-sized treat that’s perfect for sharing—or savoring solo.

What Are Fried Apple Pie Balls?

Fried Apple Pie Balls are a quick, easy, and utterly delicious dessert made by stuffing biscuit dough with cinnamon-spiced apple filling, frying them to golden perfection, and finishing with a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating. Think of them as a cross between a mini doughnut hole and an apple pie. These little gems combine a crisp exterior with a warm, buttery apple center that tastes like pure fall comfort.

Using refrigerated biscuit dough makes the process incredibly fast, while the filling comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients. This is one of those recipes you’ll come back to whenever you need a no-fuss dessert that still feels indulgent and homemade.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons this recipe should make its way to your favorites list:

• Speed and Simplicity: From start to finish, these can be ready in under 30 minutes. No rolling pins, no pie crust prep.
• Comforting Flavors: The combination of warm cinnamon, brown sugar, and tender apples never gets old.
• Perfect for Sharing: They’re bite-sized and easy to make in bulk—ideal for parties, potlucks, or game nights.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can change up the fruit, adjust spices, or even use different doughs.
• No Oven Required: Everything is done on the stovetop, which makes this great for warmer months or quick weekday desserts.

What Do They Taste Like?

Each Fried Apple Pie Ball offers a delicious contrast in textures and flavors. The outer dough is crisp and golden from frying, while the inside is soft and fluffy with a warm, cinnamon-apple filling that practically melts in your mouth. The final dusting in cinnamon sugar adds a sweet crunch and makes each bite feel like something you’d get at a county fair or a cozy fall festival.

Honestly, these are the kind of desserts that disappear quickly. Whether served hot or at room temperature, they retain their flavor and charm.

Health and Practical Benefits

While these aren’t a “health food,” they do offer some practical perks:

• Portion Control: Since they’re individually sized, you can enjoy one or two without going overboard.
• Use of Fresh Ingredients: Apples offer natural sweetness, fiber, and nutrients.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You likely have everything on hand.
• Prep-Ahead Potential: The apple filling can be made in advance, saving time later.

Ingredients

This recipe makes approximately 20 Fried Apple Pie Balls.

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Pinch of salt

For the Dough:

• 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade donut dough)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need

• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Medium frying pan or skillet
• Deep saucepan or fryer
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Paper towels for draining oil
• Small bowls for coating and assembling
• Spoon for filling

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Additions:

• Nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts in the apple filling add great texture.
• Spices: A pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for more complexity.
• Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle over the finished balls for extra indulgence.

Substitutions:

• Other Fruits: Swap in pears or peaches for a different flavor.
• Different Doughs: Crescent roll dough or puff pastry work well if biscuit dough isn’t available.
• Sweeteners: Maple syrup or coconut sugar can replace brown sugar.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Apple Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add your peeled and diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat the apples evenly and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently. The apples should become soft and syrupy. If you want a thicker filling, stir in the cornstarch and cook for an additional minute until the mixture thickens. Set the filling aside to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Dough

Separate the biscuit dough into individual rounds and flatten each one slightly using your hands. Take about 1 teaspoon of the cooled apple filling and place it in the center of each dough round. Fold the dough up around the filling and pinch it tightly closed, forming a sealed ball. Double-check for any gaps—sealed edges are key to keeping the filling inside during frying.

3. Heat the Oil and Fry

In a deep pot or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the dough balls into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are a rich golden brown. Remove the fried balls using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain.

4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While the balls are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These little desserts are versatile enough to fit into just about any occasion. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
• Dip into a warm caramel sauce or drizzle with chocolate.
• Plate with fresh berries and whipped cream for a more refined dessert.
• Add to a brunch spread alongside coffee and pastries.

If you’re in the mood for even more creative desserts, I highly recommend checking out these Strawberry Rhubarb Doughnuts for another unique twist on fruit and dough.

Tips for Making Perfect Fried Apple Pie Balls

• Don’t Overfill: A little filling goes a long way. Too much will leak out while frying.
• Seal Well: This is crucial to avoid mess in the oil.
• Control Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer and aim for 350°F. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
• Work in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan. It keeps the oil temperature stable and ensures even frying.
• Cool the Filling: Warm filling can make the dough soggy and harder to seal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

While these are best fresh, you can still store and enjoy them later.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
• Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispness.
• Freezing: You can assemble and freeze the un-fried balls. When ready to serve, fry them directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the frying time.

Avoid microwaving—this will make them soggy and limp.

More Dessert Inspiration

Looking to explore other flavor-packed bites with similar prep ease? Here are a few recipes that bring the same magic:

• Smoked Brisket Beer Cheese Pretzel Bombs – A savory twist that pairs perfectly with game-day gatherings.
• Strawberry Crunch Apples Cream Cheese Dip – A cool, creamy dip that balances fruity sweetness with crunch.
• Strawberry Rhubarb Doughnuts – Another fun and fruity fried dessert, ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Each of these recipes offers a little something different but is just as satisfying and easy to whip up.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I bake instead of fry them?
Yes, though the texture will be different. Bake at 375°F for about 12 to 15 minutes, until golden brown. You won’t get the same crispiness, but they’ll still be delicious.

What kind of apples work best?
Granny Smith is ideal for its tartness and structure, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala will also work well. Avoid apples that get too soft during cooking like Red Delicious.

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the filling and even assemble the dough balls ahead of time. Freeze them raw, and then fry when ready. You can also fry them and store them for up to 3 days in the fridge, though they’re best served fresh.

Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Kids can help fill and roll the dough, and they’ll love helping you coat the warm balls in cinnamon sugar. Just keep them away from the hot oil, of course.

Can I use store-bought pie filling?
You can, but it’s a bit messier and sweeter. If you’re short on time, go ahead—but I strongly recommend making the filling from scratch for the best flavor.

Conclusion

These Fried Apple Pie Balls are everything you love about a homemade dessert, without the hassle. They’re quick, fun, delicious, and totally customizable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, a cozy night in, or just looking to use up some apples, this recipe checks all the boxes.

So the next time you’re craving apple pie but don’t want to break out a rolling pin or wait an hour for the oven, remember these little delights. And don’t forget to explore other quick and flavorful treats like the Smoked Brisket Beer Cheese Pretzel Bombs and Strawberry Rhubarb Doughnuts—they’ll surprise and satisfy just as much.

Share Your Creations

I’d love to hear how your Fried Apple Pie Balls turned out! Leave a review, share your photos, and tag them on Pinterest. It’s always a joy to see how these recipes come to life in your kitchen.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per 1 serving)

• Calories: 95
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 90mg

Print