Cherry Hand Pies

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Introduction

Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful little pastry that combines the tartness of fresh cherries with the buttery, flaky goodness of a homemade crust. These hand-held treats are perfect for a snack, dessert, or any occasion that calls for something sweet yet simple. Each bite delivers a burst of juicy cherries wrapped in a golden, tender pastry shell, creating a heavenly combination that’s hard to resist.

The best part about Cherry Hand Pies is how customizable they are. You can use fresh, frozen, or even jarred cherries to make the filling, depending on what’s available to you. The addition of just a hint of vanilla and almond extract elevates the cherry flavor to new heights, while the sugar creates a beautiful, slightly caramelized edge once baked. Whether you serve them warm from the oven or let them cool down, they are a treat everyone will love.

I have fond memories of making these pies during the summertime, when fresh cherries were in abundance at local farmers’ markets. They became a staple at family gatherings and picnics, often enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Easy to make and even easier to eat, Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect sweet-tooth satisfyingly small indulgence. Try them once, and you’ll surely add them to your regular baking lineup!

Perfect For

These cherry hand pies are ideal for family get-togethers, picnics, bake sales, or when you simply crave a homemade sweet treat. They also make for a great grab-and-go dessert or snack, and they’re especially fun to make and share with friends or loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make:
    • This recipe is perfect for those who love delicious homemade treats but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can quickly whip up these hand pies with ease. From preparing the filling to assembling the pies, everything is designed to be simple yet satisfying. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe allows for an easy, fun baking experience that results in a crowd-pleasing dessert without complicated steps or ingredients.
  • Portable:
    • One of the best features of these hand pies is how easy they are to take with you! They are ideal for on-the-go snacking, whether you’re packing them for lunch, taking them to a picnic, or simply enjoying them as a sweet treat during your commute. The individual size makes them perfect for grabbing quickly, without needing a fork or plate. Their portability also makes them a great option for parties, school snacks, or to share with friends at gatherings. You can enjoy the sweet, fruity filling and golden crust anywhere—no mess, no fuss.
  • Perfectly Sweet:
    • These hand pies strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart. The tart cherries inside the pie are beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the golden pastry crust, creating a delicious contrast that pleases your taste buds with every bite. The cherries provide a burst of fruity flavor that’s tangy yet rich, while the pastry adds a buttery, slightly sweet crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the filling. Each bite offers a satisfying mix of sweetness and fruitiness, making these pies the ultimate indulgent snack or dessert.
  • Customizable:
    • One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is! While tart cherries are a standout filling, the recipe can easily be adapted to your preferences. You can swap out the cherries for a variety of other fruits like juicy blueberries, crisp apples, sweet peaches, or even a mix of berries for a different flavor profile. Whether you like a more tart filling or a sweeter fruit option, this recipe allows you to experiment with whatever fruit is in season or matches your cravings. You can even add some spices or zest (like cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest) to create a unique twist on the classic hand pie.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Servings: 8 hand pies
  • Calories Per Serving: Approximately 250 calories
  • Key Nutrients Per Serving:
    • Protein: 1g
    • Carbohydrates: 33g
    • Fat: 12g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Vitamin C: 10% of the recommended daily intake

Ingredients

For the Cherry Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)

For the Pastry:

  • 1 package pre-made pie crust (or homemade dough)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cherries: The main ingredient that provides a sweet-tart filling rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
  • Pie Crust: Whether homemade or store-bought, the buttery, flaky crust is the perfect complement to the cherry filling.
  • Almond Extract: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the cherry filling (optional but recommended).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cherry Filling:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using).
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to thicken and the cherries release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Once the mixture has thickened to a jam-like consistency, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Preparing the Pastry:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out your pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter (a glass works well), cut out circles of dough about 4-5 inches in diameter.
  3. Place a spoonful of cooled cherry filling in the center of each dough circle.
  4. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure a tight seal.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water together to make an egg wash. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.

Baking the Hand Pies:

  1. Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

These cherry hand pies are best served warm, but they are also delicious at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a perfect snack or dessert. They can also be topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Additional Tips

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the hand pies in advance and freeze them unbaked. Simply brush with egg wash and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a storage bag or container. When ready to bake, cook from frozen for an extra 5 minutes.
  • Homemade Crust: For a homemade option, use your favorite pie dough recipe. Just ensure it’s chilled before using to keep the pies flaky.
  • Fruit Variations: Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings, such as blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries, for a delicious twist.

Recipe Variations

  • Lemon Cherry Hand Pies: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a bright, zesty flavor.
  • Apple Cinnamon Hand Pies: Swap out the cherry filling for an apple cinnamon mixture by sautéing apples with cinnamon and sugar until soft.
  • Mini Hand Pies: Use a smaller round cutter for mini hand pies perfect for parties or snacks.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze baked hand pies, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes for best results.

Special Equipment

  • Round cutter or glass for shaping the dough
  • Rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Whisk

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use frozen cherries?
A: Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly! Just thaw and drain them before using, and you’ll still get a delicious filling.

Q: Can I bake these hand pies in advance?
A: Yes, you can bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. To reheat, just place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.

Q: Can I make the filling the day before?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it. Allow it to cool completely before adding it to the dough.

Conclusion

Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful and comforting treat that brings together the tartness of fresh cherries and the buttery, flaky goodness of pie crust. These individual-sized pastries are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack. With a crisp, golden crust and a sweet, fruity filling, they strike the perfect balance between texture and flavor.

This recipe is simple to make, and you can easily adapt it by using different fruits or adding a dash of spice like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the cherry flavor. Best served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of ice cream, Cherry Hand Pies are guaranteed to become a favorite dessert.

Bake up a batch today, and let the sweet scent of cherries and baked dough fill your home! Be sure to capture the moment and share your hand pie photos on Instagram. tag me!—I’d love to see your creations! Happy baking!

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