Hand Pies: A Unique and Easy-to-Make Dessert

Are you looking for an easy and unique dessert to make for your next party?

Look no further than hand pies! These little pies are perfect for any occasion and are a breeze to whip up.

This blog post will give you a delicious recipe for blueberry hand pies. So get ready to indulge in some sweet goodness!

What are hand pies, and where did they originate from?

Hand pies are small, individual-sized pies you can eat with your hands. They’re popular in the UK and Europe and are thought to have originated from the Cornish pasty.

  • Hand pies are a great way to enjoy a quick, easy snack or dessert.
  • You can fill them with different things, including savory fillings like meats and vegetables or sweet fillings like fruit and jam. The possibilities are endless!
what are hand pies
Photo by Syauqy Ayyash on Unsplash

What is the best filling for a hand pie, and why is it so delicious?

There are many reasons why hand pies are so delicious, but one of the critical factors is the filling. The best filling for a hand pie is sweet and savory, with a bit of texture. Just like my grandmother used to make!

  • One of my favorite fillings is a classic apple pie filling. The savory cinnamon and currants balance the sweetness of the apples, and the flaky pastry crust rounds it all off perfectly.
  • Another great option is a cherry pie filling – the tartness of the cherries pairs perfectly with a lightly sweetened cream cheese filling.
  • For something truly unique, try a filling made with chocolate, hazelnuts, and orange zest – it’s like nothing you’ve ever tasted before!

How do you make a perfect hand pie crust without fuss or muss (including the recipe)?

Dough

A perfect hand pie crust is all about the dough. And thankfully, making dough is something that I excel at. The key to a good dough is to let it rest before rolling it out. This gives the gluten time to relax and results in a more tender crust.

When rolling out the dough, make sure you use plenty of flour on your work surface and rolling pin. This will prevent the dough from sticking and makes for an easy rollout process.

Once your dough is rolled out to the desired thickness, use a clean, sharp knife to cut out your pieces. Be sure to go slowly and cut evenly for perfectly shaped pies every time!

Filling

Now for the filling! You can use any filling you like, but I prefer fruit fillings. They’re light and refreshing and pair well with the flaky pastry crust.

Step By Step

I used a blueberry filling made with fresh blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice for this recipe. You can also use frozen blueberries if new is not in season. Thaw them before using them.

  1. To assemble the pies, start by spooning the filling into the center of each dough round. Be sure to leave enough room around the edges so that you can quickly sell them shut.
  2. Once the pies are filled, dampen your finger with water and run it along the edge of each pie. This will help the dough to stick together. Then, fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together with a fork.
  3. Ensure they’re well sealed, so the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
  4. Bake the pies at a high temperature (400 degrees F) for about 20 minutes until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
  5. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving, so you don’t burn yourself. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream, if desired. Enjoy!

So there you have it – my recipe for delicious hand pies. I hope that you enjoy them as much as I do! Thanks for reading!

What are some variations on the classic hand pie that you can try at home for yourself (including recipes)?

One variation on the classic hand pie you can try at home is adding a savory element to the filling.

  • You could try adding crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or shredded cheese.
  • Another variation is to use a different type of dough. You could try puff pastry, phyllo dough, or even pizza dough.
  • You can also get creative with the topping ideas. Some fun toppings that would be great on hand pies include fruit jam, honey, Nutella®, or even grilled chicken or steak.

How do you serve your hand pies for the ultimate eating experience (includes tips)?

There’s nothing like a warm, hand-held pie for an ultimate eating experience. I recommend serving them on a nice plate with a napkin to catch any crumbs.

  • You can also add a little whipped cream or ice cream on top for added flavor and presentation.
  • Another great way to enjoy hand pies is to hold them in your hands and take a bite. You’ll get all the delicious flavors and textures in every bite.

No matter how you choose to serve them, I’m sure you and your guests will love these sweet and savory treats. Enjoy!

Are there any occasions perfect for serving up some delicious hand pies (including ideas)?

Some occasions are perfect for serving up delicious hand pies!

  • For example, a fun summer BBQ with friends or family would be the perfect time to enjoy some hand pies.
  • They’re also perfect for parties or gatherings, as they’re easy to eat and can be tailored to fit any taste. Plus, they’re just plain adorable!
  • You can make them for a fun and easy party appetizer or pack them up as a tasty snack on the go.
  • Plus, they’re the perfect way to use up any leftover ingredients you might have in your kitchen. 

What is a hand pie called?

A hand pie is a small pastry typically filled with fruit or other sweet ingredients. The dough is rolled out and then cut into small circles. The filling is placed in the center of each process, and the dough is then folded over to create a half-moon shape.

Are hand pies empanadas?

No, hand pies are not empanadas. Empanadas are a type of pastry made with flour dough and are folded over various fillings, such as meats, cheeses, fruits, or vegetables. Hand pies, on the other hand, are made with a pastry dough that is rolled out and then cut into small circles or squares. These circles or squares are then filled with various fillings and either baked or fried.

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