Fried Apple Pies

Directions

1. 1
   In a medium bowl, mix the flour with the salt and baking powder.
2. 2
   In a large bowl, combine the hot milk with the shortening and stir just until nearly melted; there should be a few pea-size pieces of shortening left.
3. 3
   Add the flour and stir with a fork just until a dough forms.
4. 4
   Gather the dough and knead until smooth.
5. 5
   Roll the dough into a 6-inch log, wrap in plastic and refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
6. 6
   In a medium saucepan, combine the apples with the water and bring to a boil.
7. 7
   Cover and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are very soft and the liquid has been absorbed, about 45 minutes.
8. 8
   Add the brown sugar and mash with a fork or potato masher until blended.
9. 9
   Stir in the raisins and let cool.
10. 10
    Cut the log of dough into 12 even pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
11. 11
    Working with half of the balls at a time, on a very lightly floured surface, roll out each ball to a 6-inch round.
12. 12
    Brush the edges with water.
13. 13
    Mound 2 heaping tablespoons of the apple filling on the lower half of each round.
14. 14
    Fold the dough over the filling to make a half-moon, leaving a 1/2 -inch border; press the edges to seal.
15. 15
    Using a lightly floured fork, crimp the edges decoratively.
16. 16
    Transfer the pies to a large, lightly floured baking sheet and repeat with the remaining balls of dough and filling.