Cherry Hand Pies

Servings: 8-10 hand pies | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes

Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories (depending on size and ingredients)

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Tip:

These Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect mix of nostalgia and deliciousness! With a flaky, buttery crust and a sweet, tart cherry filling, these handheld treats are perfect for snacking or dessert. They’re easy to make and even easier to devour—great for picnics, parties, or a cozy treat to enjoy at home.

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Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved 🍒

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp salt

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tbsp water or milk

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Dough:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix to combine.

2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.

3. Slowly add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. You may need 6-8 tablespoons of water.

4. Once the dough starts to form, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it holds together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Cherry Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt.

2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. On a floured surface, roll out one of the chilled dough disks to about 1/8-inch thickness.

3. Using a round cutter (a large glass or bowl works well), cut out circles of dough—about 4 inches in diameter.

4. Repeat the process with the second disk of dough.

4. Assemble the Hand Pies:

1. Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of half of the dough circles, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges.

2. Top each filled dough circle with another circle of dough. Press the edges together and crimp them with a fork to seal the pies.

3. Use a small knife to make a few slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Brush with Egg Wash:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water (or milk). Brush this egg wash over the top of each hand pie for a golden, shiny finish.

6. Bake:

1. Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.

2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

7. Serve:

1. Serve warm or at room temperature. If desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

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Tips for Saving Energy:

• If you have a toaster oven, you can bake a smaller batch of hand pies, which can save energy compared to using a large oven.

• Chill the dough in advance and assemble the pies quickly to minimize oven time.

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Who Should Enjoy These Hand Pies?:

• These Cherry Hand Pies are perfect for anyone who loves fruit-filled desserts with a flaky, buttery crust.

• Great for picnics, gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a sweet, handheld treat.

• Ideal for those who love classic, nostalgic desserts with a twist!

Who Should Avoid Them?:

• If you have a gluten intolerance, you can make these hand pies using gluten-free flour. Just be sure to use a good gluten-free pie crust recipe.

• People who are watching their sugar intake may want to enjoy these in moderation, as they are naturally sweetened with sugar.

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Enjoy your delicious Cherry Hand Pies—a perfect balance of tart cherries and a buttery, flaky crust that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're sharing them with friends or indulging on your own, these hand pies are a delightful treat for any occasion!