Strawberry Hand Pies

Strawberry Hand Pies

There’s something pure and magical about the aroma that wafts through your kitchen when you bake Strawberry Hand Pies. This delightful recipe is a step-by-step guide to creating tender, flaky pastries encasing a luscious strawberry filling that embodies the essence of summer. As you cut into these charming hand-held delights, the sweet, succulent strawberries greet you, inviting you to savor every bite. Perfectly golden and lovingly glazed, these hand pies will not only fill your home with warmth but your heart with happiness.

History / Fun Fact

Hand pies, known by many names across various cultures, have a rich history that dates back centuries. Originating in medieval Europe, these portable pastries were designed for laborers and travelers, allowing them to enjoy a hearty meal on the go. The versatility of hand pies means they can be sweet or savory, but the Strawberry Hand Pies we cherish today are particularly favored during strawberry season. An interesting tidbit: in the United States, hand pies began appearing in cookbooks as early as the 1830s, often filled with whatever fresh fruit was available.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect Strawberry Hand Pies begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s your shopping list — each ingredient brings a unique charm to the final product:

• 2 refrigerated pie crusts: They form the tender, flaky embrace for our filling, providing a buttery flavor that crumbles blissfully with every bite.
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced: Plump and juicy, these berries are the star of the dish, bursting with sweet-tart flavor.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener enhances the natural flavor of the strawberries, creating a harmonious balance of sweetness.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: A thickening agent that transforms the strawberry mixture into a gooey, luscious filling.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: This aromatic essence adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice: A hint of acidity that brightens the maturity of the strawberries, ensuring the taste is vibrant and fresh.
• 1 egg (for egg wash): This will give our hand pies a stunning golden sheen, making them irresistibly appetizing.
• 1 tbsp water: Used in the egg wash to create a smooth and glossy finish.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): This sugary sprinkle adds a delightful sweetness and a beautiful final touch to the pies.
• 2 tbsp milk (for glaze): Helps to create a beautifully drizzled, creamy texture for the glaze.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Ties the sweet flavors together beautifully.

Every ingredient in this recipe works in harmony to create a dessert that is not just a treat, but an experience for your taste buds.

Cooking Time & Tips For Strawberry Hand Pies

Cooking time for Strawberry Hand Pies is approximately 30 minutes, but a little patience will yield incredible results. For those in a rush, the refrigerated pie crusts allow for a quick preparation, while those looking for a deeper buttery flavor can opt for a homemade crust, which generally requires additional time.

Practical tips for success include ensuring your filling is completely cooled before assembly to prevent the dough from becoming soggy. Additionally, seal the edges of the hand pies firmly to keep the filling tucked inside during baking. Brush the tops with egg wash for that luxurious golden finish and sprinkle some extra sugar on top before baking for an added crunch.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Filling: Start by placing a small saucepan over medium heat. Here’s where the magic begins! Combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir continuously as it gradually transforms into a thick, aromatic mixture that will fill your heart with anticipation. In about five minutes, the magic happens as the mixture thickens, enticing you with its sweet fragrance. Once ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely, resisting the urge to taste too soon!

2. Assemble the Hand Pies: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a cozy spot for your pastries. Roll out the pie crusts and use a cookie cutter to cut heart shapes, or any fun shape you desire. Place a small spoonful of the cooled strawberry filling in the center of half the hearts, careful not to overstuff. Top each with another heart-shaped piece of dough, pressing the edges firmly with a fork to seal in the deliciousness! Whisk together the egg and water, giving each pie a loving brush for a golden finish.

3. Bake & Glaze: Time to bake! Slide your hand pies into the preheated oven and let them bake for 15-18 minutes or until they’re gloriously golden brown. When they’re done, take a moment to breathe in the comforting aroma. Once the hand pies have cooled for about 10 minutes, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl to create the glaze. Drizzle or brush this sweet perfection over your cooled pies, letting it set like the cherry on top of a wonderful day.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

These Strawberry Hand Pies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them at a whimsical tea party, as a dessert for a holiday gathering, or simply as a sweet surprise for a loved one. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat, or enjoy them warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Don’t hesitate to pack some for a picnic, where their portable nature shines, making them a delightful companion on any adventure.

Common Mistakes For Strawberry Hand Pies

While making Strawberry Hand Pies is relatively simple, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid. Overfilling the pies can cause the edges to burst during baking, resulting in a messy outcome. Ensure your filling is chilled before assembly; a warm filling can make the crust soggy. Forgot to seal? Pies may open up and create a mini disaster in the oven. Finally, don’t skip the egg wash; it’s your ticket to golden, luscious pastries!

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

For those looking to create a healthier version of Strawberry Hand Pies, consider using whole wheat pie crusts or cutting the sugar in the filling for a lighter touch. You can also experiment with using alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but be cautious of the liquid measurements. For variations, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for an aromatic twist, or swap out strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or apples for a seasonal alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
   Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them to prevent excess liquid.

2. How should I store leftover hand pies?
   Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Assemble the hand pies, freeze them, and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. What can I substitute for cornstarch?
   You can use all-purpose flour or tapioca starch as alternatives to thicken your filling.

5. Is it necessary to glaze the pies?
   While the glaze adds a delightful touch, you can enjoy them plain or dust them with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.

6. Can I use a different fruit for the filling?
   Definitely! Any berry or soft fruit works wonderfully, and you can even mix them for a fruity medley.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve explored the sweet realm of Strawberry Hand Pies, it’s time to embrace your inner baker! Picture the smiles on your friends and family’s faces as they savor these delightful treats fresh from the oven, their hearts warmed by the heavenly aroma and taste. The combination of strawberries and buttery crust is truly irresistible, coaxing you to indulge one more time. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into the delightful world of homemade hand pies—you won’t regret it!

Print Recipe

Strawberry Hand Pies

These delightful Strawberry Hand Pies are filled with a luscious strawberry mixture and encased in tender, flaky pastry, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time30 minutes mins

Total Time40 minutes mins

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Baked Hand Pies, comfort food, Fruit Pastries, Strawberry Hand Pies, Summer Desserts

Servings: 8 pieces

Calories: 200kcal

Ingredients

For the filling

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced Plump and juicy, the star of the dish.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar Enhances the natural flavor of the strawberries.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch Thickens the strawberry mixture.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Adds depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp lemon juice Brightens the flavor of the strawberries.

For the pastry

• 2 pieces refrigerated pie crusts Forms the tender, flaky embrace.
• 1 egg for egg wash Gives a golden sheen.
• 1 tbsp water Used in the egg wash.

For the glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar Adds sweetness and is used for glazing.
• 2 tbsp milk Creates a creamy texture for the glaze.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Ties the sweet flavors together.

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

• Place a small saucepan over medium heat. Combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir continuously until it transforms into a thick mixture, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Assemble the Hand Pies

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Roll out the pie crusts and cut shapes using a cookie cutter.
• Place a small spoonful of the cooled strawberry filling in the center of half the shapes, careful not to overstuff.
• Top each with another piece of dough, pressing the edges firmly with a fork to seal.
• Whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash, and brush each hand pie for a golden finish.

Bake & Glaze

• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
• Let the hand pies cool for about 10 minutes, then whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create the glaze.
• Drizzle or brush the glaze over the cooled pies and let set.

Notes

Ensure filling is cooled before assembly to prevent soggy dough. Seal edges firmly to keep filling tucked inside. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle extra sugar on top before baking for added crunch.