Sour Cherry Hand Pies are like tiny pockets of joy, bursting with sweet-tart cherry goodness wrapped in a flaky crust. Picture this: you bite into one of these delightful treats, and the warm filling oozes out, making your taste buds dance like they just won the lottery. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame—who can resist that? For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.
Let me take you back to a summer picnic where I first encountered these magical hand pies. My grandmother used to whip them up with sour cherries from her backyard tree. We would sit on the grass, laughter ringing in the air, while indulging in these flaky wonders. great picnic option Whether it’s a family gathering or a solo movie night, Sour Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect treat to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Sour Cherry Hand Pies are easy to make and perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- The flavor balance between sweet and tart is simply irresistible.
- Their golden, flaky crust will impress anyone who lays eyes on them.
- Versatile enough for dessert or as a snack, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients for Sour Cherry Hand Pies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Sour Cherries: Fresh or frozen work well; choose plump cherries for maximum flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the filling; adjust based on your taste preference.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the cherry filling for that perfect gooey texture.
- Pie Crust: Store-bought or homemade; I won’t judge if you go for convenience!
- Egg Wash: A simple mix of egg and water gives your pies that golden finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sour Cherry Hand Pies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will help prevent sticking and keep cleanup easy.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine fresh or thawed sour cherries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well until all the cherries are coated evenly—this step is crucial for achieving that perfect pie filling!
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
If you’re using store-bought pie crusts, roll them out on a lightly floured surface. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make your own crust from scratch (go you!), make sure it’s chilled before rolling it out.
Step 4: Assemble Your Hand Pies
Cut circles from the dough using a large cookie cutter or cup. Place about a tablespoon of cherry filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and crimp edges with a fork to seal those fruity treasures inside.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
Whisk together an egg with a splash of water for your egg wash. Brush it over each hand pie for that alluring golden finish—the kind that makes Instagrammers weep with envy.
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy
Place your assembled hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer them to wire racks to cool slightly—if you can resist diving right in!
Transfer to plates and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert experience!
You Must Know
- These delightful sour cherry hand pies are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are also a feast for the eyes!
- With their beautiful golden crust and vibrant cherry filling, they make any gathering feel special.
- Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, these hand pies are sure to impress.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preparing the sour cherry filling while the pie crust chills. Roll out the dough and cut it into circles. Spoon in the filling, fold, and seal. Bake until golden brown for perfect results every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap sour cherries for blueberries or peaches if you want to mix things up. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick of flavor. You can even glaze them with a simple icing for added sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes to retain that crispy crust.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh or frozen sour cherries; both work beautifully!
- Make sure your dough is chilled before rolling out to prevent stickiness.
- Don’t overfill the pies; less is more when sealing them up!
Sometimes when I make these sour cherry hand pies, my friends think I’ve turned into a pastry wizard. Little do they know it’s all about following these simple steps and enjoying the process!
FAQs:
What are Sour Cherry Hand Pies?
Sour cherry hand pies are delightful pastries filled with tart, juicy sour cherries. These handheld desserts combine a flaky crust with a sweet and tangy filling, making them perfect for any occasion. The dough is typically made from flour, butter, and sugar, creating a tender texture that complements the vibrant filling. These treats are ideal for picnics, parties, or just as a sweet snack at home. With their portable size, you can easily enjoy them on the go!
How do I make the crust for Sour Cherry Hand Pies?
To make the crust for sour cherry hand pies, start by mixing all-purpose flour with cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, add sugar and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor. Gradually mix in ice water until the dough comes together. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This chilling step ensures that your crust remains flaky and tender when baked. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.
Can I use frozen sour cherries for my hand pies?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen sour cherries for your sour cherry hand pies! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them as filling. This will help prevent a soggy crust. Using frozen cherries is a great way to enjoy this recipe year-round since fresh sour cherries are often seasonal and hard to find outside summer months.
How should I store leftover Sour Cherry Hand Pies?
To store leftover sour cherry hand pies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them; they can last about a week in the fridge. For optimal freshness, reheat them in an oven for a few minutes before serving. This will revive their crispiness and enhance their flavor.
Conclusion for Sour Cherry Hand Pies:
Sour cherry hand pies are an irresistible treat that balances sweet and tart flavors perfectly within a flaky crust. By following simple steps to prepare both the dough and filling, you can create these delightful pastries at home easily. perfect dessert pairing Whether you’re using fresh or frozen cherries, these handheld desserts are perfect for any occasion. Enjoying your homemade sour cherry hand pies will surely be a delightful experience that everyone will love!
Sour Cherry Hand Pies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Sour Cherry Hand Pies are delightful, flaky pastries filled with a sweet-tart cherry filling that will transport you back to summer picnics. These hand pies are easy to make and offer a perfect balance of flavor, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm on their own or paired with vanilla ice cream, these treats will impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 cups sour cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 package pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine sour cherries, sugar, and cornstarch, mixing until cherries are evenly coated.
- Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface and cut into circles using a large cookie cutter.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.
- Whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash; brush over each pie.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie (80g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For variations, swap sour cherries with blueberries or peaches. Add spices like cinnamon for an extra flavor kick. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.