Irresistible Hand Pies Recipes: 5 Flaky Delights to Try

There’s something magical about hand pies, isn’t there? Imagine golden, flaky crusts encasing warm, flavorful fillings that burst with every bite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. Hand pies are perfect for any occasion, from picnics to cozy nights in. They bring a sense of joy, nostalgia, and the promise of deliciousness that you just can’t resist.

I remember the first time I attempted to make hand pies. My friends were over for a casual movie night, and I wanted to impress them with my culinary skills. As the pies baked, I could barely contain my excitement. The sweet scent filled the air, and when they finally emerged from the oven, we devoured them faster than a pack of hungry wolves. You’ll want to experience that flavor explosion yourself!

One time, I made these hand pies for a family gathering and received rave reviews from everyone present.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for the best texture; it ensures a flaky crust.

• Unsalted Butter: Cold butter gives the pastry its flakiness; don’t skip this crucial ingredient!

• Salt: A pinch enhances flavors; it’s essential even in sweet fillings.

• Ice Water: Helps bind the dough together without melting the butter; keep it nice and cold.

For the Filling:

• Your Favorite Filling (Fruit or Savory): Choose whatever tickles your taste buds—apples, berries, or even spiced meat work wonderfully.

• Sugar (if using fruit): Adds sweetness; adjust based on your fruit’s natural sweetness.

• Cinnamon (optional): A dash elevates fruit fillings with warmth and depth.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Make the Dough: Start by mixing flour and salt in a large bowl. Cut cold butter into small cubes and add it to the mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Add Water and Form Dough: Gradually mix in ice water until dough holds together but isn’t sticky. Form it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for about 30 minutes.

Prepare Your Filling: While the dough chills, prepare your filling by combining chopped fruits with sugar and cinnamon if desired. For savory options, sauté vegetables or meats until cooked through.

Roll Out Dough and Cut Circles: On a floured surface, roll out chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut circles—around 4-6 inches wide works well.

Fill and Seal Pies: Place a spoonful of filling on one half of each circle. Fold over the other half and press edges together with a fork to seal tightly.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place hand pies on lined baking sheets; brush tops with egg wash for shine. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.

Now that you’ve made these scrumptious hand pies from scratch, get ready for compliments from everyone who tries them! Serve them warm alongside some ice cream or enjoy them as they are—no one will judge you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your filling first; this allows flavors to meld while you roll out the dough. Ensure the oven is preheated to 400°F for the best golden crust.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out traditional fillings for seasonal fruits or veggies. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist that elevates your hand pies.

Storing & Reheating

Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.

Sometimes, I find myself reminiscing about my first attempt at making hand pies. Friends raved about them, and I realized that sharing good food creates unforgettable memories.

FAQ

What are some popular hand pie fillings?

Common fillings include apple, cherry, and savory options like meat or cheese.

Can I freeze hand pies before baking?

Yes, freeze unbaked hand pies; just increase baking time when ready to cook.

How do I achieve a flaky crust?

Using cold butter and handling the dough minimally helps achieve that flaky texture.

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Hand Pies

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Hand pies are the ultimate comfort food, combining a flaky crust with delicious fillings that evoke warmth and nostalgia. Whether sweet or savory, these portable treats are perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to cozy nights at home. With a little preparation, you can create hand pies that will impress your family and friends, leaving them asking for seconds!

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 8 hand pies 1x

Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 5–6 tbsp ice water
• 1 1/2 cups of your favorite filling (e.g., chopped apples or cooked spiced meat)
• 2 tbsp sugar (if using fruit)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough holds together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare Filling: Combine chopped fruit with sugar and cinnamon or sauté vegetables/meats for savory options.
3. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll chilled dough to 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles (4-6 inches wide).
4. Fill and Seal: Place filling on one half of each circle. Fold over the other half and press edges with a fork to seal.
5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush tops with egg wash if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 hand pie (100g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg