Strawberry Hand Pies: Deliciously Easy Recipes for a Sweet Treat

Strawberry hand pies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of summer flavor to any occasion. These charming little pastries are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious, making them a favorite among both kids and adults alike. Originating from various cultures, hand pies have been enjoyed for centuries, with each region adding its unique twist. The sweet, juicy strawberry filling encased in a flaky, golden crust creates a perfect balance of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

What I love most about strawberry hand pies is their convenience; they are easy to make and perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a delightful dessert at gatherings. The combination of fresh strawberries and a hint of sugar creates a mouthwatering filling that is sure to please any palate. Whether you’re enjoying them warm from the oven or at room temperature, strawberry hand pies are a delightful way to celebrate the sweetness of life. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie crust)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Preparing the Strawberry Filling

1. Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Once they are clean, hull them by removing the green tops and slicing them into small pieces. You want about 2 cups of diced strawberries for this recipe.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the diced strawberries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. This will help to draw out the juices from the strawberries, making a delicious filling.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the bowl. This will help thicken the filling as it cooks, preventing it from becoming too runny.
4. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. The vanilla adds a lovely flavor, while the lemon juice brightens the taste of the strawberries.
5. Mix everything together gently until the strawberries are well coated with the sugar and cornstarch mixture. Set the bowl aside to let the strawberries macerate for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the juices to develop.

Preparing the Pie Crust

1. While the strawberries are macerating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your hand pies bake evenly and get that beautiful golden color.
2. If you’re using store-bought pie crusts, take them out of the refrigerator to let them come to room temperature. This will make them easier to roll out. If you’re making your own pie crust, prepare it according to your favorite recipe and roll it out on a lightly floured surface.
3. Once the pie crust is ready, roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles that are about 4-5 inches in diameter. You should be able to get about 8-10 circles from one package of pie crust.
4. Gather the scraps and re-roll them to cut out additional circles if needed. You want to have an even number of circles since each hand pie will need a top and a bottom.

Assembling the Hand Pies

1. Now it’s time to assemble the hand pies! Take one of the pie crust circles and place about 1-2 tablespoons of the strawberry filling in the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the pies to burst while baking.
2. Using your finger or a small brush, moisten the edges of the pie crust with a little water. This will help seal the edges together.
3. Take another pie crust circle and place it on top of the filled circle. Press down gently around the edges to seal the two crusts together. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they are well sealed.
4. Repeat this process with the remaining pie crust circles and strawberry filling until all the hand pies are assembled.

Preparing for Baking

1. Once all the hand pies are assembled, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent them from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of milk to create an egg wash. This will give the hand pies a beautiful golden color when baked.
3. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the egg wash over the tops of each hand pie. This step is crucial for that lovely golden finish!
4. To allow steam to escape while baking, use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the top of each hand pie. This will help prevent them from bursting in the oven.

Baking the Hand Pies

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Strawberry Hand Pies are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a flaky, buttery crust. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a sweet snack. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can easily swap out strawberries for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches, allowing you to customize the filling to your taste. I highly recommend serving these hand pies warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra special touch. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation that will impress your friends and family. I encourage you to give this Strawberry Hand Pie recipe a try and experience the joy of baking something so delicious and satisfying. Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or even photos of your creations. Let’s spread the love for these delightful treats together! Happy baking! Print