Strawberry Hand Pies

Strawberry hand pies are a delightful creation that brings the bright, sweet flavors of strawberries into a perfectly flaky pastry. Baking these little pockets of joy is not only rewarding but quite fun! Imagine sitting down with friends or family, sharing these warm treats, and watching their eyes light up. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. You get to enjoy the process of making them and then indulge in that delicious first bite. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll find that these strawberry hand pies are a true masterpiece. So, grab your apron and let’s get started on this tasty adventure!

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Why This Recipe Works

When it comes to baking, this strawberry hand pie recipe nails the balance of sweet and tart flavors. Fresh strawberries shine through, making every bite delicious. Using refrigerated pie crusts offers a quick and flaky pastry base, saving you time while still delivering that homemade goodness. Plus, this recipe features easy-to-follow steps, meaning you can enjoy the joy of baking without any stress.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Hand Pies

These strawberry hand pies are perfect for sharing at gatherings. They make a great sweet treat, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Their versatility allows them to fit into various occasions, from summer picnics to cozy winter nights. They offer a delightful twist on classic strawberry desserts, making them an instant favorite.

Ingredients

• ½ cup quartered strawberries
• 1 cup water
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup sugar
• 2 Tbsp cornstarch
• ½ cup strawberry water (from cooked strawberries)
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups roughly chopped strawberries
• 1 box refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tsp milk (for icing)

Preparing Strawberry Water

Extracting Strawberry Flavor

First, we need to infuse our filling with that delicious strawberry flavor. In a saucepan, combine the quartered strawberries and water. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 2 minutes. Remember to press the strawberries down to release all of their juices. Once done, strain the mixture into a bowl to collect the strawberry water—you’ll need this liquid to create a luscious filling.

Making the Strawberry Filling

Combining Ingredients for Flavor

Now it’s time to make the filling! In a small bowl, mix the salt, sugar, and cornstarch together. Make sure there are no clumps left. Next, grab a saucepan and whisk together the strawberry water and lemon juice with the sugar mixture. Heat it over medium until it thickens and turns clear, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once that’s done, gently stir in the roughly chopped strawberries and remove the saucepan from the heat—your filling is now ready!

Assembling the Hand Pies

Crafting a Pie Delight

Let’s assemble these delightful hand pies! Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Roll out one pie crust on the parchment and use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Do the same for the second crust. Next, whisk the egg to create an egg wash that will help seal the pies. Place about 2 teaspoons of strawberry filling on each pie shape, making sure to leave the edges clear. Brush the egg wash around the outer edges, carefully place the top crust over the filling, and seal the edges with a fork. Don’t forget to poke a few holes in the top for steam. Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle some coarse sugar—this will create a beautiful finish.

Baking the Hand Pies

Achieving Golden Perfection

Now, pop those hand pies in the oven and let them bake for around 5 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Once they look perfect, transfer them to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely. That aroma wafting through your kitchen is simply delicious!

Icing the Hand Pies

Sweetening the Finish

To give the pies a sweet touch, let’s prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until it reaches a smooth consistency. Once the pies have cooled, drizzle the icing over them and let it set before serving. Trust me; this icing adds an extra layer of yum!

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy these hand pies warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful experience.
• Pair them with fresh whipped cream for a touch of indulgence.
• They also make an ideal centerpiece for picnics, brunch, or any dessert table.

Tips for Success

• Choose fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• Keep your pie crust cold before baking to get that flaky texture.
• Taste the strawberries and adjust sugar levels based on their sweetness since strawberries can vary.

Variations

• Feel free to switch strawberries with other fruits like blueberries or apples for a new twist.
• You might want to play around with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to introduce a different flavor profile.
• For a savory option, consider filling the pies with cheese and fresh herbs instead.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure they are thawed and drained of excess water before using them.

2. How do I store leftover hand pies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

3. Can I make the filling in advance?
Absolutely! The filling can be prepared a day prior and stored in the refrigerator.

4. How can I make these gluten-free?
By using a gluten-free pie crust and ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free, you can enjoy these treats too.

5. What can I substitute for lemon juice?
Vinegar or lime juice can be used, but they might change the flavor a bit.

Strawberry hand pies are not just about tasting great—they’re also a fun way to create memories. Making them is an enjoyable experience that you can share with others. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring these wonderful little pies to life. Each bite offers a burst of strawberry goodness wrapped in crispy, flaky pastry, evoking smiles and nostalgia. Enjoy every single bite!

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