These delightful blueberry hand pies are like little pockets of joy! Sweet blueberries wrapped in a flaky crust make for a tasty treat that’s easy to grab and enjoy.
They’re perfect for dessert or a quick snack! I love popping them in the microwave for a few seconds, and bam—they’re warm and ready to eat! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries bring a bright flavor. If they’re out of season, frozen berries work well too. Just thaw and drain any excess water before using. I’ve found that wild blueberries have a more intense taste, so consider using those if you can!
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the filling, but you can reduce the amount for a less sweet pie. Alternatively, use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Lemon Juice: Adds a zesty kick that balances the sweetness. If you’re out, you could use apple cider vinegar or omit it, but I recommend leaving some acidity for the best flavor.
Cornstarch: It’s essential for thickening the fruit filling. If you don’t have cornstarch, try using flour or tapioca starch, but keep in mind that the texture might change a bit.
Pie Crust: Store-bought crust saves time, but homemade pie crust can elevate your pies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free pie dough or puff pastry instead!
How Do I Make Sure My Hand Pies Are Perfectly Sealed?
Sealing the hand pies is crucial to keep the filling inside while baking. Here’s how to ensure a good seal:
- After filling the dough, gently press the edges to remove any air pockets.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges firmly. This not only seals but adds a nice decorative touch!
- Cut small slits in the top to let steam escape. This prevents the pies from bursting open in the oven.
Taking these steps will help you achieve beautifully sealed hand pies that are perfectly golden and delicious inside.
How to Make Blueberry Hand Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Crust:
- 1 package (about 2 sheets) refrigerated pie crust dough or homemade pie crust
For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar or granulated sugar (for topping)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need around 40-45 minutes to get these delicious hand pies ready for your enjoyment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the blueberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon (if you’re using it), and salt. Gently stir everything together until the blueberries are well coated with the mixture, and then set it aside to let those flavors mingle!
3. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crust dough. Use a round or square cutter, about 4 to 5 inches in size, to cut out pieces for the hand pies. You’ll need two pieces for each hand pie—one for the bottom and one for the top!
4. Assemble the Hand Pies:
Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the blueberry filling into the center of half of the dough pieces. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges so you can seal them nicely. Then, place another dough piece on top of each filled piece and press down the edges with a fork to ensure they are sealed tight.
5. Add Slits and Egg Wash:
Using a knife, cut small slits or decorative cuts on the top crust of each hand pie. This allows steam to escape while baking. Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg for a lovely golden finish, and sprinkle them with coarse sugar for a bit of crunch!
6. Bake the Pies:
Transfer the hand pies to the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and bubbly!
7. Cool and Serve:
Allow the hand pies to cool slightly on a wire rack. Before serving, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Enjoy your warm, flaky blueberry hand pies!
These little treats are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work great. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy filling.
Can I Make the Dough from Scratch?
Yes, homemade pie crust will add an extra touch of flavor to your hand pies! Simply follow your favorite pie crust recipe or use a simple butter and flour combo for a flaky texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Hand Pies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Filling?
Yes, feel free to reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet filling, or try adding a bit of honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
