Blueberry Hand Pies
Blueberry hand pies are delightful little treats that combine the sweetness of blueberries with a buttery, flaky crust. They are perfect for a snack, dessert, or even breakfast. Easy to make and fun to eat, these hand pies allow you to enjoy the delicious taste of homemade pie without needing a slice and fork.
Why Make This Recipe
Making blueberry hand pies is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh fruit in a simple and neat format. They are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or family desserts. You can customize them easily with different fruits or flavors. Plus, baking these pies fills your kitchen with incredible aromas that will make everyone eager to taste them!
How to Make Blueberry Hand Pies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed
- 2 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/3 cup ice water
- 1 1/2 cups blueberries
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (for glaze)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until a dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles.
- Place a spoonful of the blueberry mixture in the center of each circle.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the pies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar and lemon juice and drizzle over the cooled pies.
- Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Blueberry Hand Pies
Blueberry hand pies can be served warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. You could also serve them with fresh whipped cream on the side for a delightful dessert experience.
How to Store Blueberry Hand Pies
To store blueberry hand pies, allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each pie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-friendly container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and warm them in the oven.
Tips to Make Blueberry Hand Pies
- Use cold butter to ensure a flaky crust.
- Don’t overmix the dough; it should be just combined.
- Chill the dough to make it easier to handle.
- Experiment with different fruits, like raspberries or cherries, for a variety of flavors.
Variation
You can customize the filling in many ways. Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor. For a creamier filling, mix in some cream cheese with the blueberries. You can also make a savory version by using different fruits or adding cheese and herbs.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain excess liquid before adding them to the filling.
2. How do I prevent the crust from being soggy?
Make sure to seal the edges well and avoid overfilling the hand pies. This will help keep the crust crispy.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to a month.
