Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their flaky crust and sweet blueberry filling, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these hand pies make for a charming dessert. Plus, they are easy to prepare using pre-made pie crust, making them accessible for bakers of all levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The use of pre-made pie crust means you can whip these up in no time.
• Fresh and Flavorful: Each hand pie is filled with juicy blueberries that highlight their natural sweetness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These hand pies are great for parties, picnics, or just as a sweet snack at home.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to mix in other fruits or spices to create your own unique twist.
• Fun to Make: Enjoy the process of shaping and crimping the pies with family or friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A medium saucepan
• A mixing bowl
• A rolling pin
• A circle cutter (3 1/2 diameter)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking down the blueberries evenly while allowing juices to release.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining dry ingredients like sugar and cornstarch with the blueberry filling.
• Rolling pin: Helps to roll out dough evenly, creating the perfect thickness for your hand pies.

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

• 1 package of pie crust (2 in a pack)

For Egg Wash

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

For Drizzle

• 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 over medium heat. Cook while stirring occasionally until they become soft and juices are released, which takes about 9 minutes.

Step 2: Thicken the Filling

In a separate bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Add this mixture to the cooked blueberries. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice. Allow it to cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

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

Step 5: Cut Out Dough Circles

Roll out your pie crust if necessary. Use a circle cutter to cut out 16 circles (about 3 1/2 in diameter). Gather scraps and re-roll as needed.

Step 6: Fill the Circles

Place half of the circles on parchment paper. Add about 1 tablespoon of blueberry filling to each circle.

Step 7: Seal the Hand Pies

Cover each filled circle with another dough circle. Crimp edges with a fork and make a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash

In a small bowl, combine egg and water. Brush this mixture over the tops of each hand pie.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. It’s okay if some filling starts to ooze out while baking.

Step 10: Prepare Drizzle

Once cooled, mix powdered sugar and milk until you reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this mixture over your cooled hand pies before serving.

How to Serve Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging in a cozy evening at home, these hand pies are sure to please.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the sweet blueberry filling perfectly.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, pair your hand pies with lemon sorbet to enhance the citrus notes.

Drizzled with Glaze

• Powdered Sugar Glaze: A simple mix of powdered sugar and milk adds sweetness and a beautiful finish to your hand pies.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: For something richer, drizzle cream cheese frosting over the top for added flavor.

Served Warm

• Fresh Out of the Oven: Enjoy them warm for that comforting homemade feel. The filling will be deliciously gooey!
• Microwave for 10 Seconds: If they’ve cooled down, a quick zap in the microwave warms them up nicely without losing their texture.

How to Perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Getting your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies just right can elevate your dessert game. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries yield the best flavor and texture. Choose plump berries for optimal results.
• Don’t Overfill: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst. Stick to about one tablespoon per pie.
• Crimp Edges Well: Ensure the edges are sealed tightly by crimping with a fork; this prevents leaks during baking.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking to achieve an even golden brown color.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving; this helps set the filling and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies can create an enjoyable meal experience. Here are some delicious options.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence that’s perfect for topping off your hand pies.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad balances the sweetness of the pies while keeping things light and refreshing.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a satisfying contrast that complements the flavors of blueberry.
4. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the overall experience and adds warmth during dessert time.
5. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses can offer a savory counterpoint to the sweet hand pies, making for an interesting combination.
6. Salad with Citrus Dressing: A bright salad with citrus dressing provides acidity that cuts through sweetness, balancing your meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using overripe blueberries: Overripe berries can lead to a mushy filling. Choose firm, plump blueberries for the best texture.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives your hand pies a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; brush the tops with the egg and water mixture before baking.
• Filling too much: Adding too much filling can cause your pies to burst open while baking. Stick to 1 tablespoon of filling per pie to avoid mess.
• Not sealing edges properly: If the edges aren’t crimped well, the filling may leak out. Make sure to press firmly with a fork or pinch the edges tightly.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into hand pies while they’re still hot can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool slightly before serving for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them away from strong odors in the fridge.

Freezing Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one pie at a time on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The key is using fresh ingredients and not overfilling your pies. Follow our recipe closely for the best results.

Can I use frozen blueberries for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just thaw them first and drain excess liquid before using.

How do I know when my Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are done?

They should be golden brown on top and the filling may ooze slightly. Baking time is typically around 20 minutes.

Can I customize my Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like raspberries or strawberries, or add spices such as cinnamon for extra flavor.

How should I serve my Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

These hand pies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are not just delicious; they’re also versatile! You can easily customize the filling according to your preferences. With their flaky crust and sweet blueberry flavor, these hand pies are perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delightful dessert that everyone will love!