There’s something magical about biting into a warm Cherry Hand Pie, where the flaky crust gives way to a burst of sweet, tart cherry goodness. The aroma wafts through the air, mingling with memories of summer picnics and grandma’s kitchen. These delightful pastries are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience that transports you back to simpler times.
Imagine pulling one of these beauties out of the oven, the golden-brown crust shimmering in the light, inviting you to indulge. They’re perfect for family gatherings, picnics in the park, or even those quiet nights when you need a little treat to lift your spirits. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will make your taste buds dance with joy!
Why You'll Love This Cherry Hand Pie
- This incredible Cherry Hand Pie transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I still remember the first time I made these Cherry Hand Pies for a family gathering; my cousins turned into pie detectives, searching for every last crumb and demanding seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Puff Pastry: Store-bought works wonders here; it saves time and still delivers that buttery flakiness.
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Fresh Cherries: Choose ripe cherries; they should be plump and juicy for maximum flavor.
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Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the filling perfectly; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
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Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth and warmth to the cherry filling; don’t skip it!
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Egg Wash: A mix of egg and water gives the pies a gorgeous golden finish when baked.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Hand Pie
Prepare Your Filling: Start by pitting and halving fresh cherries in a bowl. Sprinkle sugar over them and add vanilla extract. Let this mixture sit until juicy and fragrant.
Roll Out Your Dough: Dust your work surface lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Roll out puff pastry until it’s thin but sturdy enough to hold that glorious filling.
Cut Out Circles: Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the rolled pastry. Aim for about 4-6 inches in diameter – big enough for ample filling without becoming overwhelming.
Add Filling: Spoon a generous amount of cherry filling onto one half of each pastry circle. Be careful not to overfill — we want pies, not explosions!
Seal It Up!: Fold the pastry over the filling and crimp the edges with a fork. This step ensures that all that deliciousness stays inside during baking.
Bake Away!: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with egg wash before popping them into the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade creations as they cool slightly before serving!
You Must Know About Cherry Hand Pie
- This showstopping Cherry Hand Pie delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Cherry Hand Pies, start by preparing the filling first. While it cools, roll out the dough for efficiency. Once the dough is cut and filled, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F until golden brown, which usually takes about 25 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap cherries for blueberries or raspberries if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a dash of almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor or sprinkle some cinnamon for a cozy touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Cherry Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Cherry Hand Pie
- This professional-quality Cherry Hand Pie relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Cooking these hand pies has always been a family favorite; I once brought them to a picnic where they vanished faster than I could set up my blanket!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries for my Cherry Hand Pie?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe. Just remember to thaw them thoroughly and drain any excess liquid before using them as filling. This prevents sogginess in your crust, ensuring that each bite remains flaky and delicious.
How can I tell when my pies are done baking?
Look for a beautiful golden brown color on top of your Cherry Hand Pies; this typically indicates they’re ready! Additionally, you can poke one gently; if it feels firm rather than soft, it’s time to take them out of the oven.
What if I don’t have pie crust on hand?
No worries! You can easily substitute with store-bought puff pastry or biscuit dough instead of traditional pie crust. This not only saves time but also adds a delightful flakiness that complements the sweet cherry filling wonderfully.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble your Cherry Hand Pies a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover them well with plastic wrap so they don’t dry out while chilling in the fridge.
Conclusion for Cherry Hand Pie
Cherry Hand Pies are not just a treat; they encapsulate warmth and nostalgia in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can create these delightful pastries at home effortlessly. Remember to customize your filling, store wisely, and enjoy sharing your creations with loved ones! Whether it’s summer picnics or cozy winter evenings, these hand pies are sure to bring smiles all around.
Cherry Hand Pie
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgia of homemade Cherry Hand Pies, where a flaky, buttery crust envelops a delightful filling of sweet and tart cherries. Perfect for any occasion, these hand pies are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- 2 cups fresh cherries (pitted and halved)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix pitted cherries with sugar and vanilla; let sit to release juices.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into 4-6 inch circles.
- Place cherry filling on one half of each circle, being careful not to overfill.
- Fold the pastry over the filling and crimp edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pie (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon with the cherry filling. Feel free to substitute cherries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.
