Cherry Hand Pies

Some desserts have a way of making us feel nostalgic, and Cherry Hand Pies are one of them. The combination of golden, flaky crust and sweet, tangy cherry filling is enough to transport anyone back to a time when homemade treats were the highlight of a gathering. These little pockets of joy aren’t just delicious—they’re also fun to make, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of bubbling fruit and buttery pastry.

Baking has always been a special tradition in my family. I remember standing on a chair next to my grandmother, watching her expertly fold the dough around a generous spoonful of cherry filling. She never measured—just a pinch of this and a handful of that—but the results were always perfect. The first time I made Cherry Hand Pies on my own, I was nervous about getting the crust just right. But as soon as I pulled them out of the oven, golden and crisp, I knew I had captured the magic of my childhood. Now, I make these hand pies every chance I get, passing down the tradition one batch at a time.

Why You’ll Love These Cherry Hand Pies

• Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal effort.
• Deliciously Sweet: Bursting with cherry flavor and a flaky crust.
• Versatile: Perfect as a snack, dessert, or holiday treat.
• Customizable: Can be made with homemade or store-bought pie filling.
• Portable: Ideal for picnics, parties, and on-the-go snacking.

First: Gather Your Ingredients

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To make the best Cherry Hand Pies, you’ll need:

• Pie Crust: Homemade or store-bought for convenience. Learn more about pie crust and its variations.
• Cherry Pie Filling: Fresh cherries or canned cherry pie filling. Discover the history and uses of cherries.
• Powdered Sugar Glaze: Adds a sweet finishing touch.
• Egg Wash: Ensures a golden, crispy crust.
• Lemon Zest: Enhances the flavor of the cherry filling.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling. Learn more about cornstarch and its role in baking.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor.

Second: Preparing the Dough and Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pie crust to ⅛ inch thick and cut into 4-5-inch circles.
3. Add a heaping tablespoon of cherry pie filling to the center of each round.
4. Fold the dough in half to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal.
5. Crimp the edges with a fork and brush with egg wash.

Third: Baking to Perfection

1. Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 15-17 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Let them cool slightly before drizzling with powdered sugar glaze.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Best Cherry Hand Pies

• Use Fresh Cherries: If making homemade filling, fresh cherries enhance the flavor.
• Don’t Overfill: Prevents the filling from leaking out.
• Seal the Edges Properly: Helps keep the filling inside while baking.
• Brush with Egg Wash: Creates a beautifully golden crust.
• Let Them Cool Before Glazing: Ensures the glaze sets properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Cherry Hand Pies

• Using Too Much Filling: Leads to messy leaks.
• Not Sealing the Edges Well: Causes the filling to spill out.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Results in a pale crust instead of a golden one.
• Overbaking: Can dry out the pie crust.
• Not Letting Them Cool: The filling needs time to set before serving.

FAQs About Cherry Hand Pies

How do I make Cherry Hand Pies healthier?

To lighten up the recipe:

• Use whole wheat pie crust for added fiber.
• Opt for low-sugar cherry filling or fresh cherries with natural sweeteners.
• Bake instead of frying for a lower-calorie option.
• Use dairy-free milk in the glaze for a lactose-free version.

Can I make Cherry Hand Pies without eggs?

Yes! Substitute egg wash with:

• Milk or cream for a similar golden finish.
• Maple syrup for a touch of sweetness and shine.
• Oil spray for a crispy texture.

What should I serve with Cherry Hand Pies?

These hand pies pair well with:

• Vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
• Whipped cream for a light and fluffy topping.
• Chocolate drizzle for a decadent twist.
• Coffee or tea for a delightful pairing.

Can I freeze Cherry Hand Pies?

Absolutely! To freeze before baking:

• Place assembled hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Should Cherry Hand Pies be baked or fried?

Both methods work!

• Baking is healthier and easier, requiring no oil.
• Frying creates an extra crispy crust but adds more calories.

Conclusion

Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether baked or fried, these handheld pies are bursting with cherry flavor and wrapped in a golden, flaky crust.

For another delicious baked good, you might love this Crescent Cheesecake Bars Recipe, a creamy and flaky dessert that’s just as satisfying. If you’re craving something savory, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Recipe for an indulgent dinner idea. And if you enjoy comfort food classics, don’t miss Easy Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe to complete your meal.

Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!

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