Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply looking for a sweet snack to enjoy at home, these hand pies will impress everyone. With their flaky crust and luscious blueberry filling, they are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, and watch as they become a favorite dessert in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With pre-made pie crusts, you can whip these up in no time!
• Bursting with Flavor: Fresh blueberries combined with lemon juice create a sweet and tangy filling that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just as a fun treat at home.
• Kid-Friendly: An engaging recipe that kids can help with, making it great for family bonding time.
• Make Ahead Option: These hand pies can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment!

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of items you’ll need to prepare this delicious dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Pastry cutter or round cookie cutter
• Brush for egg wash

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out your pie crusts for perfect hand pies.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the blueberry filling evenly without burning.
• Parchment paper: Keeps your hand pies from sticking to the cookie sheets and makes cleanup easier.

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 the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Glaze:

• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

How to Make Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Place the blueberries in a medium saucepan and turn heat to medium.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally until they become soft and juices are released (about 9 minutes).
3. Combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt; then add to the cooked blueberries. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until mixture thickens.
4. Remove from heat and add lemon juice.
5. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

1. Cut 16 circles out of the dough using a cutter about 3 1/2 in diameter (you may need to gather scraps and re-roll).
2. Place half of the circles on parchment paper; add 1 tablespoon of filling on each circle.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place the other half of circles on top of each filled circle.
2. Crimp edges with a fork to seal and make a few slits on top for ventilation.

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

1. Combine egg and water in a small bowl; brush tops of hand pies with this mixture.
2. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown (it’s okay if some filling starts to ooze out).

Step 6: Glaze Application

1. When cool, combine powdered sugar and milk to desired consistency then drizzle over pies.

Enjoy these delightful Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies as an irresistible dessert!

How to Serve Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, here are some fun serving suggestions.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the sweet blueberry flavor perfectly.
• Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing option that adds a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the pies.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Chocolate Sauce: Add a rich, decadent touch by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the pies.
• Berry Compote: Enhance the berry flavor with a homemade berry compote made from mixed berries.

Serve with Beverages

• Herbal Tea: The light flavors of herbal tea make for a soothing pairing with these hand pies.
• Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy drink that offers a refreshing burst while enjoying your dessert.

Garnish for Presentation

• Whipped Cream: Top each pie with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: Add a pop of color and freshness by garnishing with mint leaves on the plate.

How to Perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Creating perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture in your filling.
• Chill the Dough: Keeping your pie crust cold will help achieve a flaky texture when baked.
• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough filling to avoid spills; about one tablespoon per pie works well.
• Seal Properly: Ensure edges are crimped tightly to prevent leaking during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pies; they should be golden brown but not overcooked.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies can be complemented beautifully by various side dishes. Here are some perfect pairings to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt pairs well with the sweetness of blueberry hand pies.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the dessert’s richness.
3. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy varieties, can enhance the overall flavor experience.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a crunchy texture alongside your hand pies.
5. Coffee Cake: Serve slices of coffee cake for a delightful combination at brunch or afternoon tea.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option adds nutrition while complementing the sweet flavors of the hand pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly overfilling: Adding too much filling can cause pies to burst. Stick to about one tablespoon of filling per pie.
• Ignoring dough temperature: Using warm dough can lead to tough crusts. Keep your pie crust chilled until ready to use.
• Skipping the egg wash: Not brushing the tops with egg wash results in dull-looking pies. Always brush for a golden finish.
• Oven preheating oversight: Baking without preheating can affect texture. Ensure your oven is fully heated before baking.
• Neglecting slits on top: Forgetting to make slits leads to steam buildup and potential bursting. Cut a few slits for proper ventilation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for 30-45 seconds, but be cautious as it may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

You can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.

How do I make my own pie crust?

You can make a simple pie crust using flour, butter, salt, and water. Combine ingredients and chill before rolling out.

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

These pies are best served warm, optionally drizzled with icing or paired with vanilla ice cream.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! Try mixing in other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for different flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are not only delicious but also customizable. Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings. They make a great dessert for any occasion!