If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a flaky, buttery crust only to discover an oozy, sweet-tart cherry filling, you’re in for a real treat with these Cherry Hand Pies. Bursting with juicy cherries and just the right kiss of vanilla, they’re portable, adorable, and totally irresistible for dessert lovers of all ages. Whether you go for fresh fruit in the height of summer or raid your freezer stash, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something joyful you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Pie Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and halved)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crust and Egg Wash:
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
How to Make Cherry Hand Pies
Step 1: Cook the Cherry Filling
Start your Cherry Hand Pies journey by combining the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla in a saucepan. Over medium heat, let this medley simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring every so often. The cherries should soften, and the juices will thicken into something glossy and jammy. Once you’ve achieved that luscious glaze, set it aside to cool—this makes assembling so much easier, and keeps your crust crisp!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, unroll your pie crusts and give them a gentle roll to smooth out any wrinkles. Using a cookie cutter or even an overturned bowl, cut out circles or rectangles about 4 to 5 inches wide. These are the perfect hand-held size—think pocket pies for grownups and kiddos alike.
Step 3: Fill and Assemble
Place half of your dough cutouts onto the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooled cherry filling into the center of each, leaving a border all the way around. Top each with a matching piece of dough, then use a fork to gently press and seal the edges. This step is both practical (keeps the filling inside) and adds that charming, rustic look.
Step 4: Add Egg Wash and Sugar
Whisk the beaten egg with milk to make a rich egg wash. Brush it generously over each hand pie—it’s what gives them their glorious, bakery-worthy sheen. Don’t forget to cut a small slit in the top of every pie to let steam escape, then sprinkle with coarse sugar for an irresistible finishing touch.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your hand pies into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. They’ll emerge golden, bubbling, and almost too pretty to eat. Transfer to a wire rack and let them cool just enough that the filling won’t scorch your tongue—trust me, the wait only makes that first bite sweeter.
How to Serve Cherry Hand Pies
Garnishes
There’s no wrong way to dress up Cherry Hand Pies, but a light dusting of powdered sugar gives them a magical, bakery-window look. A drizzle of simple icing (just confectioners’ sugar and milk) is also delightful. If you really want to wow, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream makes every serving feel like a special occasion.
Side Dishes
For a playful dessert spread, serve these pies alongside a fresh fruit salad or a bowl of mixed berries. They also pair beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or cold milk—perfect for afternoon snacking or a cheerful brunch treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Cherry Hand Pies are as cute as they are tasty, so why not get creative? Stack them on a tiered dessert stand, wrap individual pies in parchment and twine for party favors, or serve them picnic-style for that old-school, Americana vibe. However you showcase them, they’re guaranteed to spark smiles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you (miraculously) have leftovers, keep your Cherry Hand Pies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll stay crisp and flavorful—just keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Freezing
For a future treat, let your pies cool completely before wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and sealing in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature, and they’ll be ready for a quick warm-up whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To bring your Cherry Hand Pies back to fresh-from-the-oven glory, pop them in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for about 5–8 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can—the oven gives that perfectly crisped crust every time.
FAQs
Can I use canned cherry pie filling instead of fresh cherries?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or baking in the off-season, canned cherry pie filling is a fantastic shortcut. Just skip the filling-cooking step—though the flavor of homemade filling is hard to beat.
What if I don’t have a round cutter?
No problem at all. You can cut the dough into rectangles or even hearts for a fun twist. The shape is totally up to you—just keep them around 4–5 inches wide so they’re easy to eat by hand.
Do Cherry Hand Pies work with other fruits?
Yes! This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Swap in blueberries, blackberries, or chopped peaches—just make sure to adjust sugar levels and add a spoonful or two of cornstarch if your filling seems extra juicy.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Be sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork and avoid overfilling the pies. Brushing egg wash along the edges before sealing creates a strong “glue” that helps lock in all that luscious cherry goodness.
Can I prepare Cherry Hand Pies ahead of time?
You can! Assemble the pies and refrigerate them (unbaked) for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for parties or a make-ahead dessert plan.
Final Thoughts
Making Cherry Hand Pies is all about simple pleasures: juicy fruit, buttery pastry, and that little thrill of eating dessert with your hands. Whether you bake a batch for your next picnic or bring them to a cozy gathering, you’ll quickly see why they’re such a beloved classic. Happy baking—don’t be surprised if these disappear in a flash!
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Cherry Hand Pies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 hand pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These delightful Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect handheld treats for any occasion. Made with a flaky pie crust and a sweet cherry filling, these pies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
Pie Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and halved)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crust and Egg Wash:
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the cherry filling: In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook until thickened.
- Prepare the crust: Roll out pie crusts, cut into circles, and spoon cherry filling onto half. Top with remaining dough and seal edges.
- Brush with egg wash: Mix beaten egg with milk and brush over hand pies. Bake until golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow pies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- Use a cherry pitter for easier prep with fresh cherries.
- Substitute with canned cherry pie filling for a shortcut.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
