Cherry Hand Pies

Cherry Hand Pies: Sweet, Flaky, and Irresistibly Cute Treats! 🍒🥧✨

1. Introduction

There’s something incredibly charming about mini desserts, and these cherry hand pies are no exception. These delightful, single-serving pies are filled with a luscious cherry filling and encased in a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for picnics, parties, or simply a sweet treat on a cozy afternoon, this cherry hand pies recipe is sure to become a favorite. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, look no further than these adorable dessert hand pies. They are incredibly easy to make and endlessly customizable. Imagine the joy of biting into a warm, freshly baked cherry pie, perfectly sized for one – it’s pure bliss! For another delightful snack, you might enjoy browsing more recipes in our Snack Category. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cherry hand pies recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Get ready to enjoy the sweet taste of summer with every bite of these easy cherry pies!

2. What are Cherry Hand Pies?

Cherry hand pies are essentially miniature versions of a classic cherry pie. They consist of a sweet and tart cherry filling wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. These individual pies are perfect for portion control and easy serving. The beauty of this cherry hand pies recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can use store-bought pie crust to save time, or for a truly special occasion, you might be inspired to craft your own from scratch for a truly homemade touch. Perhaps experiment with different flours to achieve a unique texture! The filling is typically made with fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, and a touch of lemon juice to enhance the flavors. Don’t be afraid to add a dash of almond or vanilla extract for an extra layer of complexity. The result is a delightful combination of textures and tastes that make these cherry pastry bites incredibly addictive. They’re like little pockets of happiness!

3. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry hand pies recipe is a winner for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can achieve perfect results with minimal effort. The recipe requires simple ingredients that are readily available, making it a convenient choice for a last-minute dessert. Secondly, these dessert hand pies are incredibly versatile. You can customize the filling with different spices or add-ins, and the small size makes them ideal for parties and gatherings. Imagine presenting a platter of these adorable pies at your next get-together – they’re sure to be a hit! Speaking of parties, if you need more ideas, check out all our Recipes. Finally, the taste is simply irresistible. The sweet and tangy cherry filling combined with the flaky crust creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

4. Ingredients You’ll Need

• Pie dough (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• Granulated sugar
• Lemon juice
• Cornstarch
• Almond extract (optional)
• Egg, for egg wash
• Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Cherry Filling

In a saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and almond extract (if using). Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are soft. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Make sure it’s fully cooled, otherwise, it will melt the dough!

Cutting the Dough

Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a knife to cut out circles of dough. You’ll need two circles for each cherry hand pie. If you don’t have a cookie cutter, you can use a bowl or even a jar lid as a guide. Reroll any scraps to minimize waste. Looking for other treats you can make with cookie cutters? Head over to our section on Cookies!

Assembling the Pies

Place a spoonful of the cherry filling onto one circle of dough. Be careful not to overfill. About 1-2 tablespoons is usually sufficient. Brush the edges of the dough with water or egg wash. This helps to create a good seal. Place another circle of dough on top and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and also to ensure a tight seal. You can also twist the edges for an elegant look, or leave them plain for a rustic feel.

Baking the Hand Pies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled cherry hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar. The egg wash gives the pies a beautiful golden sheen, and the turbinado sugar adds a delightful crunch. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. Let cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents burns!

6. Tips for the Perfect Hand Pies

• Use cold ingredients for the pie crust to ensure a flaky texture. Cold butter is key!
• Don’t overfill the pies, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
• Make sure to seal the edges of the pies well to prevent the filling from leaking. A good crimp with a fork works wonders.
• For an extra golden crust, use an egg wash made with egg yolk and a splash of milk. This adds richness and color.
• Let the pies cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set. Patience is a virtue!

7. Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about this cherry hand pies recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins to create your own unique version of these dessert hand pies. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for a warm, spiced flavor. You can also incorporate other fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, for a mixed berry pie. For a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the filling. Some people like to add a touch of Kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the filling for an extra boozy kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it! For more inspiration, you might find interesting ideas on this cherry hand pies recipe from My Baking Addiction. If you’re looking for something different than cherries, why not try our Whipped Root Beer Cream Pie?

8. Serving Suggestions

These easy cherry pies are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination. The contrast of the warm pie and cold ice cream is heavenly! Drizzle them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an added touch of sweetness. Or, enjoy them with a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy treat. These cherry pastry bites are also perfect for picnics and potlucks, as they are easy to transport and serve. Just pack them in a container and you’re good to go!

9. Conclusion

This cherry hand pies recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer in a convenient and adorable package. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these dessert hand pies are sure to satisfy. With their flaky crust, luscious cherry filling, and endless customization options, they’re a delightful addition to any dessert repertoire. Maybe you will like some brownies, cheesecake, or cupcakes as your next baking project? So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible easy cherry pies. Your taste buds will thank you! You might also enjoy them for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They’re great anytime!

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