Step 1

Combine the apples, sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the apples are slightly softened and have released their juices, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Whisk together the water and cornstarch in a small bowl until a slurry forms.

Step 3

Pour the slurry into the apple mixture, stirring continuously as you continue to cook for 5 minutes. The mixture will thicken and the apples will be soft.

Step 4

Remove the filling mixture from the heat, add the lemon juice, and set aside to cool.

Step 5

Using a circular cookie cutter, cut out 6 circles out of the pie dough.

Step 6

Place 2 tablespoons of apple pie filling on each circle.

Step 7

Fold the dough circle in half over the filling and press down on the edges to seal.

Step 8

Fold or crimp the edges so that the pies stay closed while frying.

Step 9

In a large saucepan heat about 3 cups of oil to 350°F.

Step 10

Place two pies in the oil at a time and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 11

Remove pies and place on paper towels.

Step 12

Repeat until all pies are fried.

Step 13

To make the glaze, combine the butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and milk in a small saucepan. Whisk in the vanilla extract and a cup of the powdered sugar.

Step 14

Drizzle the glaze on top of the pies and serve.