Blackberry Hand Pies

Blackberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that’s both easy to make and bursting with juicy, tangy flavors. Whether you’re craving a warm, freshly baked pastry or a versatile fruit filling to elevate other desserts, this recipe has you covered. Hand pies are the perfect individual dessert, great for summer picnics or casual family gatherings. Plus, the sweet blackberry filling can be used beyond pies, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups blackberries, divided
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 3 teaspoons lemon juice
• 7 tablespoons water, divided
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 ready-made pie crust (such as Pillsbury)
• 1 large egg, whisked
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure the pies bake evenly and don’t stick to the tray.

For the Blackberry Filling

1. Heat a saucepan over low/medium heat.
2. Add 2 cups of blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons of water to the pan and bring to a boil.
3. Let the mixture boil for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the remaining 1 cup of blackberries.
4. Mix 4 tablespoons of water with the cornstarch, then pour it into the blackberry mixture. Stir well.
5. Continue cooking the blackberry sauce until it thickens, then remove it from the heat.
6. Allow the filling to cool for about 15 minutes before using.

Making The Hand Pies

1. Unroll the ready-made pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Use a biscuit cutter or a glass to cut the pie dough into 3-inch circles.
2. Brush the edges of the dough circles with a little water to help seal the pies.
3. Place a heaping tablespoon (or two) of the cooled blackberry filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough in half to form a semi-circle, then crimp the edges with a fork to securely close.
4. Place the assembled hand pies onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Lightly brush this egg wash over the tops of each hand pie to give them a golden, shiny finish when baked.

Baking The Hand Pies
Bake the hand pies in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. These hand pies are best enjoyed warm.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Warm and Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, serve Blackberry Hand Pies warm, straight from the oven. The golden, flaky crust pairs perfectly with the juicy blackberry filling.
• With Ice Cream: Elevate your dessert by serving these pies with a scoop of vanilla or blackberry ice cream on the side. The contrast of warm pie and cold ice cream is a true delight!
• Toppings: Drizzle some powdered sugar glaze or sprinkle powdered sugar over the hand pies for a touch of extra sweetness.
• As a Breakfast Treat: These hand pies make a fantastic breakfast or brunch item when served with coffee or tea. Their portability also makes them a great on-the-go snack.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep the crust crisp, place them in a single layer without stacking.
• Refrigeration: If you plan to store them for longer, place the pies in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to revive their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked hand pies for up to 2 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the pies to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

These serving and storage tips will help you enjoy your Blackberry Hand Pies to their fullest potential, whether fresh or saved for later!

Variations:

1. Mixed Berry Hand Pies
Combine blackberries with other berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries to create a mixed berry filling. Simply substitute 1 cup of blackberries with your favorite berries for a burst of different flavors.

2. Cream Cheese Blackberry Hand Pies
For a creamy, tangy twist, spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese on each dough circle before adding the blackberry filling. The cream cheese adds a rich flavor and creates a cheesecake-like texture in the hand pies.

3. Blackberry Lemon Hand Pies
Add a refreshing citrus zing by incorporating lemon zest into the blackberry filling. This brightens the flavor and pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the blackberries. You can also drizzle the finished hand pies with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

4. Blackberry and Apple Hand Pies
Combine tart apples with blackberries for a delicious fruit duo. Dice half an apple and add it to the filling mixture to create a delightful balance of sweet and tart.

5. Spiced Blackberry Hand Pies
Enhance the flavor of your blackberry filling by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. These warm spices give the pies a cozy, comforting taste, perfect for fall or winter desserts.

6. Nutella Blackberry Hand Pies
For chocolate lovers, add a dollop of Nutella to the dough before adding the blackberry filling. The combination of rich hazelnut chocolate and fresh blackberries creates an irresistible treat.

7. Glazed Blackberry Hand Pies
Add a touch of sweetness and elegance by drizzling a glaze over the baked pies. Mix powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice and drizzle the glaze over the cooled hand pies. This will give them a shiny finish and a sweet, tangy bite.

8. Savory Blackberry and Brie Hand Pies
For an unexpected savory twist, add a small slice of brie cheese along with the blackberry filling. The creamy brie adds a rich, savory contrast to the sweetness of the blackberries, making these pies perfect for appetizers or special occasions.

9. Gluten-Free Blackberry Hand Pies
Substitute the regular pie crust with a gluten-free pie dough to make this recipe gluten-free. Many store-bought or homemade gluten-free pie crust options are available, so you don’t have to miss out on these delicious pies.

10. Blackberry Hand Pies with Puff Pastry
For a flakier and lighter crust, swap the regular pie crust with puff pastry. The result will be a crispy, buttery pastry that complements the juicy blackberry filling.

These variations add exciting flavors and textures to your Blackberry Hand Pies, making them even more versatile and customizable for any occasion!

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw the frozen berries first, drain excess liquid, and proceed with the recipe. The flavor will still be delicious!

2. Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hand pies ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Once assembled, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. When ready to bake, thaw slightly and bake as instructed.

3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
To avoid leaks, make sure to seal the edges of the hand pies tightly by pressing them with a fork. Adding a little water to the edges of the dough before sealing also helps secure the pies. Be careful not to overfill each pie.

4. Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can definitely use homemade pie crust if you prefer. A homemade crust will work just as well and may give you a flakier, more buttery result.

5. What other fruits can I use for hand pies?
You can substitute the blackberries with other fruits such as apples, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or cherries. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favorite filling!

6. Can I bake these hand pies in an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and cook the hand pies for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them as air fryers can cook faster than traditional ovens.

7. How do I store leftover hand pies?
Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispness.

8. Can I make these hand pies vegan?
Yes, to make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based pie crust and substitute the egg wash with a dairy-free milk wash or melted coconut oil. The blackberry filling itself is naturally vegan.