Cherry Hand Pies Recipe

Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful dessert that blends the sweetness of ripe cherries with a golden, flaky crust. These hand pies are portable, making them the perfect snack or treat for any occasion. What makes this dish so special is its simplicity and the way it captures the essence of summer with each bite. With a crisp exterior and a warm, tangy cherry filling inside, Cherry Hand Pies are both comforting and satisfying. In this article, you’ll learn how to make these irresistible hand pies, from the ingredients and equipment to the step-by-step instructions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cherry Hand Pies are not just another dessert; they’re an experience. The sweet and slightly tart cherry filling combines perfectly with the buttery, flaky crust, creating a balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. What makes them even more special is their versatility—these hand pies are easy to personalize with your choice of fruit filling, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, looking for a quick snack, or preparing a festive treat for a party, Cherry Hand Pies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, yet they taste as though they came from a bakery. The simple ingredients, combined with the ease of preparing them ahead of time, make these pies perfect for busy cooks or bakers who still want to impress. Each hand pie is a little bundle of joy, and the warm, gooey cherry filling will evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort in every bite.

Recipe Details

Cherry Hand Pies have a rich history in American baking, often seen as a favorite for summertime picnics and holiday gatherings. Their simplicity—using just a few basic ingredients like fruit, sugar, and a flaky pie crust—makes them an accessible dessert for bakers of all levels. The filling traditionally consists of fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and a touch of cornstarch to thicken the juices, ensuring a smooth and rich consistency. The crust, which forms the foundation for these pies, is made from butter, flour, and water, creating a beautifully flaky texture that perfectly complements the fruit filling.

In terms of culinary technique, Cherry Hand Pies are made by assembling the dough into individual pockets filled with cherry goodness. These pockets are then baked until golden brown and crispy, making for an easy yet stunning presentation. The beauty of Cherry Hand Pies lies in their portability—no plates or forks are needed, making them a great option for outdoor events or packed lunches. By using pre-made pie crusts or making your own from scratch, you can adjust the recipe to fit your preferences and time constraints.

Nutritional Information

Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful treat, but like many indulgent desserts, they should be enjoyed in moderation. A typical serving of Cherry Hand Pies contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. They offer a small amount of protein from the butter and flour in the crust, but the primary nutrients come from the cherries, which provide a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them not only delicious but also beneficial for your health.

The pie crust contributes to the fat content in the hand pies, so if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can experiment with alternative crust options, such as phyllo dough or a whole-grain crust. You can also try reducing the amount of sugar in the filling or substituting a non-dairy butter alternative to make the recipe dairy-free. While the original recipe is already a delicious treat, there are plenty of ways to modify it to suit specific dietary needs while still keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Ingredients

For these delicious Cherry Hand Pies, you’ll need:

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if preferred)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top, optional)

You can adjust the sweetness and tartness of the cherry filling by adding more or less sugar depending on your preference. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the filling. These simple ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of tart and sweet, wrapped in a golden, flaky crust.

Equipment Needed

To make Cherry Hand Pies, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Rolling pin: To roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
• Cookie cutter or a glass: To cut the dough into perfect circles or squares.
• Baking sheet: For placing the hand pies on as they bake.
• Parchment paper: To prevent the pies from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Pastry brush: To apply the egg wash for a golden finish.
• Fork: To crimp the edges of the pies and seal them tightly.

These tools are essential for creating the perfect Cherry Hand Pies with a crisp, golden crust and a beautifully sealed filling. If you don’t have a rolling pin, a wine bottle or another smooth, cylindrical object can work in a pinch!

Pro Tips For Success

To ensure your Cherry Hand Pies turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:

• Don’t overfill the pies: While it’s tempting to pack the pies with as much cherry filling as possible, overfilling can cause them to burst during baking. Stick to about 1-2 tablespoons of filling for each pie.
• Seal the edges properly: Make sure the edges of the pies are crimped well to prevent the filling from leaking out. You can use a fork to press down around the edges, creating a decorative pattern and sealing them tightly.
• Chill the pies before baking: To prevent the dough from shrinking, chill the hand pies for about 15-20 minutes before placing them in the oven. This helps keep the crust nice and flaky.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your pies while they bake. The crust should turn golden brown and crispy, but not too dark. If they’re browning too quickly, reduce the temperature by 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Use an egg wash: Brushing the tops of the pies with an egg wash (a mixture of beaten egg and water) will give them a beautiful, shiny finish once baked.

These tips will help you achieve the best possible result and make your Cherry Hand Pies look and taste like they came from a professional bakery.

Instructions

1. Prepare the cherries: In a bowl, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir gently until the cherries are evenly coated and the mixture thickens slightly. Let it sit while you prepare the dough.
2. Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crusts to about 1/8-inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough. You should aim for about 4-inch diameter circles, though you can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.
3. Assemble the hand pies: Place a small spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill. Gently fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal the pies.
4. Apply egg wash: Brush the tops of the hand pies with a beaten egg to create a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle coarse sugar over the tops if desired for an extra crunch and sweetness.
5. Bake the pies: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Recipe Variations

Cherry Hand Pies are highly customizable, so feel free to get creative with the fillings:

• Different fruit fillings: Instead of cherries, you can use other fruits like blueberries, peaches, or apples. Just adjust the sugar and thickening agents based on the fruit’s sweetness and juiciness.
• Add spices: For a more complex flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the filling. This works particularly well with apple or peach hand pies.
• Sweet crust: If you like a sweeter crust, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough, which will create a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor.

The versatility of these hand pies makes them a great option for any occasion, whether you’re craving a classic cherry filling or want to experiment with other fruits and spices.

Storage & Serving Guide

To store Cherry Hand Pies, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you need to store them longer, they can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again.

Cherry Hand Pies are perfect for serving at picnics, gatherings, or as an after-dinner treat. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an indulgent dessert. These hand pies also make a great snack for lunchboxes or an easy grab-and-go treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cherries for the filling?
   Yes, frozen cherries work well. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before rolling it out.
3. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
   Yes, store-bought pie crust is a convenient option, though homemade crust will yield the best results.
4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
   Make sure to seal the edges of the pies well with a fork, and don’t overfill them.
5. Can I freeze these hand pies?
   Yes, Cherry Hand Pies freeze well. Be sure to let them cool completely before freezing.
6. What should I serve with Cherry Hand Pies?
   Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent treat.
7. Can I use a different type of sugar?
   Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor or use coconut sugar for a more natural option.
8. How do I get the golden color on the crust?
   Brush the pies with a beaten egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden color.
9. Can I make mini Cherry Hand Pies?
   Yes, you can make mini versions using a smaller cookie cutter.
10. How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
    Make sure the filling isn’t too watery, and be sure to bake the pies until the crust is fully golden brown.

Conclusion

Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect combination of a flaky, buttery crust and a sweet, tangy filling. Whether you serve them for a special occasion or simply enjoy them as an afternoon snack, these pies are sure to delight. Their versatility and deliciousness make them a go-to recipe for any baker, and once you try them, you’ll understand why they’ve become a beloved treat. So grab some cherries and get baking!

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