Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies

Ready for a little handheld magic that’s bursting with sweet cherry goodness and creamy, dreamy cheese? These Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies are exactly that—a flaky, golden crust wrapped around a luscious cherry filling with a rich cream cheese center. They’re like a perfect little surprise in every bite! Plus, cooking them in the air fryer means they’re crispy and delicious without all the mess of deep frying. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your new go-to sweet treat.

Whether you’re craving a quick dessert, a fancy snack, or something special for brunch, these hand pies bring cozy, comforting vibes with a fresh, fruity twist. Plus, they’re fun to make and even more fun to share!

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies

Here’s why this recipe will have you reaching for the air fryer again and again:

Perfectly Portable: Individually sized hand pies mean you can grab and go, no fork needed.

Flaky & Crispy: The air fryer gives the crust a beautiful golden crisp without excess oil.

Sweet & Tangy: Juicy cherry filling balanced with creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese makes every bite a flavor party.

Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps—perfect for beginner bakers.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble them in advance and air fry fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Customizable: Swap cherries for other berries, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.

Ingredients in Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies

These hand pies are made from simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together like magic.

For the Dough

• Pre-made Pie Crust or Puff Pastry: Flaky and buttery, the perfect shell to hold all the goodies.
• Egg Wash: Egg beaten with a splash of water or milk, for that gorgeous golden finish.

For the Filling

• Cream Cheese: Softened and smooth, adding richness and tang.
• Cherry Pie Filling: Sweet and juicy, bursting with that classic cherry flavor.
• Sugar & Vanilla Extract: To sweeten and flavor the cream cheese filling perfectly.
• Cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the cherry filling if it’s too runny.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s make some handheld happiness—step-by-step:

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy. If your cherry filling is very liquidy, mix in a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.

Assemble the Hand Pies

Roll out your pie crust or puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares or circles (about 4-5 inches wide). Spoon a small dollop of cream cheese mixture onto the center, then add a spoonful of cherry pie filling on top. Be careful not to overfill.

Seal the Pies

Brush the edges with egg wash, then fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal and prevent leaking.

Brush and Prep

Brush the tops with more egg wash for that golden shine. Use a small knife to cut a few tiny vents on top so steam can escape while cooking.

Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies in the basket without overcrowding. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is puffed and golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the hand pies cool slightly before biting in—they’ll be hot and gooey! Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6–8 hand pies
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies

Make your hand pies the star of the show with these serving ideas:

• With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light sprinkle adds a pretty, sweet touch.
• Drizzled with Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla for a simple glaze drizzle.
• Alongside Fresh Whipped Cream: Creamy and airy whipped cream complements the tart cherries perfectly.
• As a Sweet Snack or Dessert: Perfect for picnics, brunches, or an after-dinner treat.
• With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage pairs perfectly with these flaky pies.

Additional Tips

• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make sealing tricky and cause leaks.
• Use Cold Dough: Keep your dough chilled before assembling for easier handling and flakier results.
• Batch Cooking: These hand pies air fry quickly—cook in batches to keep the crust crisp.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven.
• Try Different Fruits: Blueberries, peaches, or apples make delicious variations.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use homemade pie crust?
A1: Absolutely! Homemade or store-bought both work beautifully.

Q2: How do I keep the crust flaky?
A2: Use cold dough and avoid overworking it. Chill the assembled pies briefly before cooking.

Q3: Can I freeze these hand pies?
A3: Yes! Freeze them before air frying. When ready, air fry from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to cook time.

Q4: What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A4: You can bake them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15–18 minutes or until golden.

Q5: Can I make these vegan?
A5: Use dairy-free cream cheese, a vegan pie crust, and substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk or aquafaba.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies are everything you want in a sweet treat—crispy, flaky, creamy, and bursting with juicy cherry goodness. They’re perfect for impressing guests, satisfying snack cravings, or just treating yourself to a little homemade magic. So grab your air fryer and get ready for a batch of cozy, handheld delights you’ll want to make again and again!

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