Introduction
Looking for a delightful dessert that’s easy to prepare? These cherry hand pies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Using premade pie crust and cherry filling, you can whip up these charming treats in no time. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weekend treat, these hand pies are sure to please.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 box (14 oz.) premade pie crust dough
1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
Sugar for sprinkling
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
Yield: 12 hand pies
These cherry hand pies are not only delicious but also simple to make. With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have a scrumptious treat to enjoy with family and friends!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the perfect temperature to get your hand pies golden and crispy.
Cut the Pie Crust
Take the box of premade pie crust dough and roll it out if necessary. Use a 4-inch star cookie cutter to cut out a total of 12 stars from the dough—6 for the bottom and 6 for the top.
Add Cherry Filling
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling onto the center of 6 of the stars. Be careful not to overfill, as it may spill out during baking.
Moisten the Edges
Using your fingertips, moisten the edges of the stars that have cherry filling. This will help seal the pies when you add the top stars.
Assemble the Pies
Carefully place the remaining 6 star-shaped dough pieces over the filled ones, aligning the edges. Ensure they are centered on top of the filling.
Seal the Pies
Press the edges of the top and bottom stars together firmly to seal them. Then, use a fork to crimp the edges for an added decorative touch and extra security.
Prepare the Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water until well combined. This mixture will give your pies a beautiful golden color when baked.
Brush the Pies
Lightly brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash, ensuring an even application across the surfaces.
Sprinkle Sugar
Generously sprinkle sugar over the tops of the brushed pies. This will add a sweet crunch to the finished hand pies.
Bake the Pies
Place the assembled pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky.
Cool the Hand Pies
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the hand pies to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting period will help the filling firm up slightly for easier handling.
Notes
Storage
These hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Variations
Feel free to substitute cherry pie filling with other flavors such as apple, blueberry, or even chocolate for different variations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Cook techniques
Preheating
Preheat your oven to 425°F to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
Cutting Shapes
Use a 4-inch star cookie cutter to cut out star shapes from the pie crust, creating uniform pieces for your hand pies.
Filling
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling into the center of half of the star shapes, making sure not to overfill.
Moistening Edges
Dampen the edges of the filled stars with water using your fingertips to help seal the pies properly.
Sealing the Pies
Place the unfilled stars over the filled ones, align the edges, and press them together before crimping with a fork to create a strong seal.
Egg Wash
Beat an egg with water to create an egg wash, which adds a nice golden color and shine to the baked pies.
Sugar Sprinkling
Before baking, sprinkle sugar over the tops of the hand pies for added sweetness and texture.
Baking
Bake the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown.
Cooling
Allow the hand pies to cool for 10 minutes after baking to prevent burns and to let the filling set.
FAQ
Can I use a different filling?
Yes, you can substitute cherry pie filling with any fruit filling of your choice, such as apple, blueberry, or peach.
What if I don’t have a star cookie cutter?
You can use any shape of cookie cutter or even cut the dough into squares or circles with a knife.
How can I ensure the pies are sealed properly?
Make sure to moisten the edges well with water and crimp thoroughly with a fork to avoid any filling leaking during baking.
Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pies and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.
What should I serve with the hand pies?
These hand pies are delicious on their own but can also be served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Conclusion
These delightful cherry hand pies are not only simple to make but also a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy. With a golden, flaky crust and a burst of cherry flavor, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed as a personal snack, these hand pies are sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try using blueberry pie filling for a delicious twist.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Create apple cinnamon hand pies by substituting cherry filling with spiced apple filling.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add a creamy cheese filling with a hint of lemon for a unique flavor combination.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with chocolate hazelnut spread as a filling for a decadent dessert.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Incorporate fresh berries along with the cherry filling for added texture and flavor.
