Mini Cherry Hand Pies
These mini cherry hand pies are perfect for summer gatherings, featuring a homemade cherry filling that's both sweet and tart, encased in a flaky pastry crust.
Equipment
- 1 saucepan
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 biscuit cutter
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter chilled and diced
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
Cherry Filling
- 3 cups fresh cherries pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough forms. Wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let cool.
Assembly
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll dough on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thick. Cut into circles using a biscuit cutter.
- Place a spoonful of cherry filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold over and seal edges with a fork. Cut small slits on top.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush over each pie for a golden finish.
- Place pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
Serving and Storage
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature. Pair with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure butter is cold for a flaky pastry. Roll dough thinly for even baking.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use frozen cherries if fresh are unavailable. Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a nutty flavor.
How to Serve: Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare dough and filling ahead. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use frozen cherries if fresh are unavailable. Substitute almond extract for vanilla for a nutty flavor.
How to Serve: Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare dough and filling ahead. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.