Description
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
- Heat a saucepan over low/medium heat.
- Add 2 cups of blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, and 3 tablespoons of water to the pan and bring to a boil.
- Let the mixture boil for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the remaining 1 cup of blackberries.
- Mix 4 tablespoons of water with the cornstarch, then pour it into the blackberry mixture. Stir well.
- Continue cooking the blackberry sauce until it thickens, then remove it from the heat.
- Allow the filling to cool for about 15 minutes before using.
Making The Hand Pies
- 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.
- Brush the edges of the dough circles with a little water to help seal the pies.
- 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.
- Place the assembled hand pies onto the prepared baking sheet.
- 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.
Notes
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!