Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are the perfect treat for any occasion! With a fresh, sweet blueberry filling and a flaky crust, they make for a delightful dessert or snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to indulge in something delicious, these hand pies offer an easy way to bring joy to your table. Their unique combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With pre-made pie crust, these hand pies come together in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The fresh blueberries create a sweet filling that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun to make and even more fun to eat; kids love them!
• Customizable: Add spices or different fruits to personalize your filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter (3 1/2 diameter)
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the pie crust evenly for perfectly shaped hand pies.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for cooking the blueberries and creating that delicious filling.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are made with a fresh filling that comes together in a snap and kept on the easy side with pre-made pie crust. Each bite is bursting with sweet blueberry flavor!

For the Filling

• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons corn starch
• pinch salt
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

For the Crust and Topping

• 1 package of pie crust (2 in a pack)
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

How to Make Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Step 1: Cook the Blueberries

Place the blueberries in a medium saucepan and turn heat to medium. Cook, stirring occasionally until they become soft and juices are released (about 9 minutes).

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Then add this mixture to the cooked blueberries. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and add lemon juice. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 4: Cut Out Dough Circles

Cut 16 circles out of the dough using your cookie cutter (approximately 3 1/2 diameter). You may need to gather scraps and re-roll to get enough circles.

Step 5: Assemble the Pies

Place half of the circles on parchment. Add about 1 tablespoon of filling onto each circle. Place the other half of circles on top, crimping edges with a fork. Make a few slits on top for steam release.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

Combine the egg and water in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over the tops of each hand pie.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown. It’s okay if some filling starts to ooze out during baking!

Step 8: Finish with Glaze

When cool, combine powdered sugar and milk until you reach your desired consistency. Drizzle over pies before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies!

How to Serve Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or part of a brunch spread, these hand pies are sure to please anyone who takes a bite.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and subtle flavor of vanilla ice cream complement the sweetness of the blueberry filling perfectly.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, serve your hand pies with lemon sorbet to enhance the citrus notes in the recipe.

Drizzle with Glaze

• Powdered Sugar Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the warm pies for added sweetness and presentation.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: For something richer, mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk to create a decadent topping.

Coffee or Tea Companion

• Fresh Brewed Coffee: A cup of coffee enhances the flavors of the hand pies while providing a comforting pairing.
• Herbal Tea: For a lighter option, enjoy these hand pies with chamomile or peppermint tea to balance their sweetness.

Serve Warm or Cold

• Warm: Enjoy these hand pies warm right out of the oven for gooey blueberry goodness.
• Cold: Let them cool completely and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert option on hot days.

How to Perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Creating perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your hand pies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen blueberries can work but may result in excess moisture.
• Roll Dough Thinly: Ensure your pie crust is rolled thin enough for easy crimping and even baking. This helps achieve that perfect flaky texture.
• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate the assembled hand pies for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape during cooking.
• Don’t Overfill: Use only 1 tablespoon of filling per pie. Overfilling can cause them to burst and leak during baking.
• Check for Doneness: Bake until golden brown for that ideal crispy crust. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a unique twist on your homemade blueberry hand pies.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are delicious on their own but can be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when serving this delightful dessert.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a nice touch of sweetness and richness that pairs beautifully with the fruit filling.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet hand pies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that balances out the indulgent pastry.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone for an elegant touch that complements the sweet flavors of the hand pies.
5. Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce creates an indulgent experience, especially if you love chocolate paired with fruit desserts.
6. Nuts and Seeds Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts and seeds offers texture contrast while adding healthy fats to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the filling: If you cook the blueberries too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and cook just until soft.
• Skipping the cooling step: Filling that’s too hot can make it hard to handle the dough. Always let the mixture cool slightly before filling your pies.
• Not sealing properly: A poor seal can lead to filling leaking out during baking. Make sure to crimp the edges well with a fork.
• Using cold dough: Cold dough can crack when you roll it out. Let your pie crust sit at room temperature for a bit before working with it.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at too low a temperature can result in soggy crusts. Preheat your oven to 425°F as specified for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Place unbaked hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each pie on medium power for about 30 seconds. Check and repeat if necessary.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.

How do I customize my Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or mix in other fruits such as raspberries or strawberries for variety.

What is the best way to serve Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

These hand pies are delicious warm or at room temperature. Serve them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Can I make the dough from scratch?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pastry, feel free to use your favorite pie crust recipe instead of store-bought ones.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are not only delightful but also versatile! Their sweet blueberry flavor makes them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize your filling or topping options; they’re as fun to make as they are delicious! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these tasty treats with family and friends.