👉Easy Strawberry Hand Pies

🍓 Easy Strawberry Hand Pies

Craving a sweet treat that’s simple, portable, and absolutely delicious? These Strawberry Hand Pies are flaky, fruity, and perfect for any occasion—from school lunches to summer picnics or just a cozy dessert at home. Made with fresh strawberries and pre-made pie crusts, they come together quickly and disappear even faster!

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (usually comes with 2 crusts)

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh is best)

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated.

3. Cut the Dough: Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a 3- to 4-inch round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles.

4. Fill the Pies: Place a spoonful of the strawberry filling onto the center of half the circles.

5. Seal the Edges: Top with another dough circle, then press the edges together with a fork to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut a small vent on top.

6. Add Egg Wash: Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

7. Bake: Place pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Cool & Serve: Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving.

🍽️ Nutritional Info (Per Hand Pie):

• Calories: 180

• Total Fat: 7g

• Saturated Fat: 3g

• Cholesterol: 15mg

• Sodium: 105mg

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Dietary Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 14g

• Protein: 2g

💡 20 Expert Tips for Perfect Hand Pies

1. Use cold dough – Keep pie crusts chilled until ready to use to ensure flaky results.

2. Don’t overfill – Too much filling will cause leakage during baking.

3. Use a slotted spoon – Drain extra liquid from filling before adding it to the dough.

4. Chill before baking – Chill assembled pies for 10–15 minutes to help them hold their shape.

5. Add a sugar sprinkle – Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for sparkle and crunch.

6. Cut small vents – This allows steam to escape and prevents soggy pies.

7. Try other fruits – Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches work beautifully too.

8. Freeze before baking – Hand pies can be frozen and baked straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes.

9. Seal with egg or water – Brush the edges with egg or water before crimping for a better seal.

10. Make them rectangular – Easier for folding and sealing if you don’t have a round cutter.

11. Add vanilla or cinnamon – Mix into the filling for an extra flavor twist.

12. Use a food processor – Chop strawberries quickly and evenly.

13. Gluten-free version – Use gluten-free pie dough for dietary needs.

14. Add a drizzle – Cool completely, then drizzle with icing made from powdered sugar and milk.

15. Mini versions – Use a smaller cutter for bite-sized treats.

16. Reheat in the oven – Avoid the microwave to keep the crust crisp.

17. Serve with ice cream – These are amazing warm with a scoop of vanilla.

18. Make ahead – Prep and refrigerate pies a day in advance.

19. Use silicone baking mats – Helps prevent sticking and ensures even browning.

20. Get the kids involved – Great for family baking fun—they’ll love sealing the edges!

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
   Yes, just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

2. Can I make my own pie crust?
   Absolutely! Homemade pie dough works beautifully if you have time.

3. How long do hand pies last?
   They stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

4. Do I have to use lemon juice?
   Lemon brightens the flavor, but you can skip it or use orange juice.

5. Can I make them vegan?
   Use a vegan crust and brush with non-dairy milk instead of egg.

6. Can I add cream cheese to the filling?
   Yes! A dollop in each pie adds richness and creaminess.

7. How do I store leftovers?
   Keep in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate.

8. Can I freeze hand pies?
   Yes. Freeze unbaked or baked pies and reheat in the oven.

9. Do I need to blind bake the crust?
   No. These bake all at once—no blind baking needed.

10. What’s the best size for hand pies?
    3-4 inches is ideal for a handheld treat.

11. Why is my crust soggy?
    Excess liquid in the filling—use a slotted spoon to reduce moisture.

12. Can I use puff pastry instead?
    Yes! It’ll give you a lighter, flakier result.

13. Is there a low-sugar version?
    Reduce sugar or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit.

14. Can I make them savory?
    Definitely. Omit sugar and use meat, cheese, or veggie fillings.

15. Can I use jam instead of fresh strawberries?
    Yes, but don’t overfill—jam expands more when heated.

16. Do I have to brush them with egg?
    No, but it gives a golden, shiny finish. You can use milk or cream instead.

17. Why is my filling running out?
    Overfilling or not sealing the edges tightly enough.

18. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
    Yes! Bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes.

19. Can I dust them with powdered sugar?
    Of course—especially after they cool, for a bakery-style finish.

20. How do I prevent burning on the bottom?
    Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and place the rack in the middle of the oven.