Delightful Strawberry Hand Pies: A Delightful Homemade Treat

Why Strawberry Hand Pies Are the Perfect Sweet Treat

Strawberry hand pies are the perfect combination of a flaky, golden crust and a sweet, juicy filling. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, a delightful dessert, or looking for an easy-to-share treat, these hand pies are a must-try. Made with fresh strawberries and a buttery crust, they bring a homemade warmth to every bite, making them perfect for any time of the day.

The Allure of Strawberry Hand Pies

Strawberry hand pies have gained popularity for a reason—they’re easy to make, fun to eat, and require minimal ingredients. Unlike a full-sized pie, these mini delights are portable and don’t require utensils, making them perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a quick dessert after dinner.

They’re also versatile, meaning you can tweak the filling or crust to suit your preference. Plus, they bake faster than traditional pies, so you can enjoy them sooner!

Ingredients Needed

To make the best strawberry hand pies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 package of store-bought pie crust (or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

1. Prepare the Strawberry Filling

Start by combining diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir everything together and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the strawberries to release their juices, while the cornstarch helps thicken the mixture.

2. Roll Out the Dough

If using store-bought pie crust, roll it out slightly to make it even thinner. If making your own crust, roll it out to about ⅛ inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a small bowl (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.

3. Assemble the Hand Pies

Place a spoonful of strawberry filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause leakage during baking. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the pies shut.

4. Apply Egg Wash & Venting

Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Use a knife to make small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.

5. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the hand pies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Hand Pies

Making hand pies is simple, but here are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly:

✔ Avoid Watery Filling: If your strawberries are very juicy, drain excess liquid before filling your pies to prevent sogginess.

✔ Seal Properly: Press the edges firmly with a fork to ensure the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.

✔ Use a Cold Dough: Keep the dough chilled before rolling and filling to maintain a flaky texture.

✔ Golden Crust Trick: The egg wash gives a rich color to the crust. For extra crunch, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top before baking.

Variations to Try

Want to put a twist on traditional strawberry hand pies? Here are some fun variations:

🍓 Strawberry-Rhubarb Hand Pies – Add diced rhubarb to the filling for a sweet-tart contrast.

🍏 Strawberry-Apple Mix – Add finely chopped apples for extra texture and flavor.

🌿 Cinnamon & Nutmeg Infusion – Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor.

🍫 Chocolate-Dipped Hand Pies – Once cooled, dip one half of the pie in melted chocolate for a gourmet touch.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

Best Ways to Serve

• Enjoy warm, fresh out of the oven.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.

How to Store

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked hand pies for up to 3 months; bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?

Yes! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling.

How Do I Keep the Filling from Leaking?

Be careful not to overfill the hand pies. Also, ensure the edges are well-sealed and use venting slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the pies and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I Have to Use an Egg Wash?

No, but the egg wash gives the pies a beautiful golden-brown finish. You can also use milk or cream as an alternative.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Them?

To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Enjoy the Simplicity and Flavor of Homemade Strawberry Hand Pies

Strawberry hand pies are a simple yet delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just as a quick dessert, these mini pies are sure to impress. With their flaky crust and juicy strawberry filling, they’re an easy way to enjoy the taste of homemade pie—without all the fuss.

So, what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients ready and bake up a batch today!