Cherry Hand Pies

Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that brings joy to various occasions, especially during the festive holiday season. These charming pastries, shaped like Christmas trees, are perfect for parties or cozy family gatherings. With only five ingredients, these hand pies feature a flaky crust and a sweet cherry filling that will warm your heart. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, Cherry Hand Pies stand out as both a delicious dessert and a fun holiday activity!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just five ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up these treats in no time.
• Festively Fun: The Christmas tree shape adds a playful touch to holiday gatherings.
• Versatile Filling: While cherry pie filling is classic, feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings!
• Perfect for Sharing: These hand pies are easy to serve and share with friends and family.
• Baked to Perfection: The golden brown crust provides a satisfying crunch that complements the juicy filling.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather the necessary tools. Preparing your workspace ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Cookie sheet
• Holiday tree cookie cutter
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling Pin: This tool helps flatten the pie crust evenly for consistent baking.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your cookie sheet with this makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.

Ingredients

Cherry Hand Pies are shaped like Christmas trees for the holiday season! You only need five ingredients to make festive hand pies with a flaky crust and juicy filling.

For the Crust

• 3 boxes refrigerated pie crust (2 crusts each box)

For the Filling

• 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounce)

For the Egg Wash

• 2 large eggs
• 2 Tablespoons water

Optional Topping

• Coarse sanding sugar (optional)

How to Make Cherry Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Thaw the refrigerated pie crust according to package directions.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together two eggs with water for your egg wash, then set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust

Using your rolling pin, roll out one thawed pie crust until it is between ¼” and ⅛” thick. Ensure there are no cracks or holes in the dough.

Step 4: Cut Out Tree Shapes

Use a 3-4 inch holiday tree cookie cutter to cut out about seven trees from the rolled-out dough. Save any excess crust for later use. Repeat this process with all remaining pie crusts.

Step 5: Add Cherry Filling

Place the tree shapes on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon about 1 – 1½ tablespoons of cherry pie filling into the center of each tree. Brush around the filling border with your egg wash.

Step 6: Seal Your Hand Pies

Gently place another tree shape over each filled piece. Start at the trunk and lightly press the edges together without squishing down on the filling.

Step 7: Create Ventilation Slits

Using a fork, press down on the seams around each tree shape to seal them properly. Then, make a few slits in the top crust for venting using a sharp knife. Brush each top with any remaining egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sanding sugar if desired.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Once baked, transfer them to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for an enjoyable experience!

How to Serve Cherry Hand Pies

Cherry Hand Pies are not only a delightful treat but also versatile in how you can serve them. They add a festive touch to any gathering, especially during the holiday season. Here are some fun serving suggestions to make your Cherry Hand Pies even more enjoyable.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the sweet cherry filling.
• Chocolate Ice Cream – For a rich and delicious contrast to the fruity flavor.

Drizzled with Sauce

• Chocolate Ganache – A warm drizzle adds decadence and pairs well with the tartness of cherries.
• Caramel Sauce – Sweet and buttery, caramel enhances the overall taste of the hand pies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Assorted Fruit – Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced fruit for a colorful presentation.
• Whipped Cream – A dollop on top can elevate your hand pies to another level of indulgence.

As Party Favors

• Individually Wrapped – Perfect for giving guests a sweet treat to take home.
• Decoratively Boxed – Present them in festive boxes for a charming gift option during the holidays.

How to Perfect Cherry Hand Pies

Making perfect Cherry Hand Pies requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your pies turn out flaky and delicious every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients – Keeping your pie crust ingredients cold helps create a flakier texture.
• Don’t Overfill – Adding too much cherry filling can cause spills; stick to the recommended amount.
• Seal Well – Make sure to seal the edges properly, so the filling doesn’t leak during baking.
• Vent the Tops – Cutting slits in the top crust allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess.
• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking for perfect golden color.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Hand Pies can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their sweet flavor.

1. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad balances the sweetness of the hand pies and adds freshness.
2. Cheese Platter – Offer a variety of cheeses such as brie and sharp cheddar for contrasting flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies provide savory depth beside your sweet treat.
4. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can brighten up your dessert table.
5. Hot Cocoa or Coffee – Warm beverages pair beautifully with Cherry Hand Pies, enhancing their flavors.
6. Pumpkin Soup – The warmth and spices in pumpkin soup complement the sweet fruit filling nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Hand Pies can be a fun and festive activity, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the egg wash: Not brushing the edges with egg wash can lead to pies that don’t seal properly. Always use egg wash to ensure a tight seal.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much cherry pie filling can cause the filling to ooze out during baking. Stick to 1 – 1 ½ tablespoons for best results.
• Using cold pie crust: If your pie crust is too cold, it may crack when you roll it out. Allow the crust to thaw completely before using it.
• Not venting the pies: Forgetting to cut slits in the top crust can cause steam build-up, leading to soggy bottoms or bursting pies. Always add a few slits for proper venting.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Removing them too early can leave them doughy, while overbaking will result in hard pies. Aim for golden brown.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled Cherry Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cherry Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until just warmed through, being careful not to make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the crust flaky?

To achieve a flaky crust, handle the dough gently and avoid overworking it. Keep your ingredients chilled.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?

Yes! Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll need to add sugar and possibly cornstarch for thickening.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! You can use other fruit fillings like apple or peach if you prefer.

How do I know when they are done baking?

Cherry Hand Pies are done when they are golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary by oven.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and assemble them ahead of time and bake when ready.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their festive shape makes them perfect for holiday gatherings, while their easy preparation allows you to customize fillings based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors or even experiment with toppings!