Blackberry Hand Pies 🥧🍇

Introduction

These delightful Blackberry Hand Pies are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert! Flaky pastry filled with juicy blackberries makes for an irresistible treat. Every time I whip up a batch of these hand pies, my kitchen transforms into a delightful aroma-filled haven. The sweet-tartness of the blackberries, combined with the buttery crust, brings back fond memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. Whenever my kids see me making these, they eagerly gather in the kitchen, ready to help and taste-test, making this recipe not just a treat but a wonderful family bonding experience.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh blackberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the hand pies from sticking.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh blackberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Gently mix the ingredients to ensure the blackberries are well-coated. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the blackberries to release some of their juices, making for a more flavorful filling.
3. Roll Out the Pie Crusts: Take the refrigerated pie crusts out of the package. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the crusts to smooth out any creases. Using a 4-inch round cutter, cut out circles from the dough. You can use a large glass if you don’t have a cutter.
4. Fill the Hand Pies: Spoon about one tablespoon of the blackberry mixture onto one half of each dough circle, ensuring not to overfill them. Leave enough space around the edges to crimp the pies shut.
5. Seal the Pies: Carefully fold the other half of the dough over the filling. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they are sealed well. This step is crucial to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
6. Prepare for Baking: In a small bowl, beat the egg to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash for a beautiful golden finish. Finally, sprinkle a little sugar on top for added sweetness and texture.
7. Bake: Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. The smell of baking blackberries and buttery pastry will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
8. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling step is essential, as the filling will be very hot.

Nutrition Facts (Per Hand Pie)

• Serving Size: 1 hand pie
• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 2g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve the hand pies warm for the best flavor and texture.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of elegance.
• Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or blackberry ice cream pairs beautifully with these pies.
• Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted chocolate on top adds an indulgent touch.
• With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

Additional Tips

1. Use Frozen Blackberries: If fresh blackberries are out of season, frozen blackberries work well too. Just thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
2. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste and the ripeness of the blackberries, you can adjust the sugar in the filling.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
4. Experiment with Spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the blackberry filling can elevate the flavors.
5. Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure whether the pies are done, look for a golden brown color and bubbly filling as indicators.

Recipe Variations

• Berry Mix: Substitute blackberries with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a mixed berry hand pie.
• Chocolate Chip Addition: For a twist, add chocolate chips to the blackberry filling for a delightful contrast.
• Savory Version: Replace blackberries with sautéed mushrooms and cheese for a savory hand pie variation.
• Different Crust: Try using puff pastry instead of pie crust for a flakier texture.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Snack: Perfect for an afternoon snack or a lunchbox treat.
• At Parties: These hand pies make great finger foods for parties or potlucks.
• For Breakfast: Enjoy them warm with coffee for a delightful breakfast option.
• At picnics: Easy to pack and transport, they are a great addition to picnic baskets.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Unbaked hand pies can be frozen before baking. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Hand Pies: Store baked hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought pie crusts?
   Yes, refrigerated pie crusts are perfect for this recipe and save you time.
2. What if I don’t have fresh blackberries?
   Frozen blackberries can be used, just make sure to thaw and drain them first.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
4. How do I know when the hand pies are done?
   They should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbly.
5. Can I substitute the sugar?
   You can use brown sugar or a sugar substitute, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
6. Are these hand pies gluten-free?
   You can use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure your filling ingredients are gluten-free.
7. Can I bake these from frozen?
   Yes, bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
8. How long do they last?
   Baked hand pies can last up to 2 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.
9. What should I serve them with?
   They pair well with ice cream, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
10. Can I make these savory?
    Yes! Consider using vegetables or meats as a filling for a savory option.

Conclusion

Blackberry Hand Pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, dessert, or special treat, they bring joy to every occasion. The flaky crust, coupled with the sweet-tart filling, makes for a delightful bite that’s hard to resist. Next time you find yourself with fresh blackberries or just craving something sweet, give this recipe a try, and watch them disappear from the plate!

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