Cherry Hand Pies
Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion! These little pockets of goodness are filled with sweet cherry filling, and their flaky crust makes them irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, dessert, or even a fun addition to a picnic, these hand pies are a classic favorite. Let’s dive into how you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious treats that are sure to impress family and friends!
Gather Your Cherry Hand Pie Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to make these tasty Cherry Hand Pies:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped (about 300g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8g)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5ml)
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or homemade pie dough (about 425g)
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling on top
Step-by-Step Cherry Hand Pies Recipe
Ready to bake? Follow these easy steps to create your own Cherry Hand Pies:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Cook the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until it thickens (about 5 to 7 minutes). Once thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
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Prepare the Pie Crusts: Roll out your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a large glass to cut out 4 to 6 circles from the dough, depending on the size you prefer.
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Fill the Crusts: Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cooled cherry filling onto one half of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
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Seal the Pockets: Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal well. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch, if you like.
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Brush & Sprinkle: Brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg. Then, sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top for added sweetness and crunch.
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Bake: Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
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Cool & Enjoy: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy them while they are still warm or let them cool to room temperature.
Serve & Enjoy Cherry Hand Pies
These Cherry Hand Pies can be served in various ways! For a classic touch, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side. They are also perfect for a picnic—just wrap them in parchment paper for easy handling. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider placing them on a beautiful platter and dusting with powdered sugar for a stunning presentation. Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat!
Helpful Tricks for Cherry Hand Pies
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Freezing Tips: You can freeze the unbaked hand pies. Simply assemble them and place them in the freezer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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Variations: Feel free to mix things up! Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with different fruits like blueberries or mixed berries to create a fruity medley.
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Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust instead. The flavor and texture will still be fantastic!
Cherry Hand Pies: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned cherries for the filling?
Yes, you can use canned cherries! Just make sure to drain them well and chop them into smaller pieces.
How can I store leftover hand pies?
Store any leftover Cherry Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness; just warm them in the oven before enjoying!
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cherry filling a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your hand pies.
Give these Cherry Hand Pies a try, and you’ll see why they’re such a beloved treat! They’re simple to make and bursting with flavor, perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own. Happy baking!
Cherry Hand Pies
Ingredients
Cherry Filling
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped About 300g
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar 100g
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch 8g
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice 15ml
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 2.5ml
Pie Crusts
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or homemade pie dough About 425g
For the Topping
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until it thickens (about 5 to 7 minutes). Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Roll out your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface and cut out 4 to 6 circles from the dough.
Assembly
- Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cooled cherry filling onto one half of each circle, being careful not to overfill.
- Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges if desired.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Baking
- Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
