What To Know
- Add the chilled butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry blender, two forks, or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Hand pies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a delightful presentation, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
Hand pies are a delightful treat that combines the comfort of a classic pie with the portability of a pastry. Whether you’re looking for a sweet or savory option, these little pockets of goodness are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply satisfying a craving. Learning how to make hand pies is surprisingly easy, and the results are always impressive.
The Allure of Hand Pies
Hand pies offer a unique blend of convenience and deliciousness. Their small size makes them perfect for snacking, while their versatility allows you to experiment with endless flavor combinations. You can fill them with sweet fruit fillings, creamy custard, savory meats, or even cheesy vegetables. The possibilities are truly limitless!
Gathering Your Ingredients
Before you embark on your hand pie journey, gather the essential ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- Ice water
- For the Filling:
- Your choice of sweet or savory ingredients (e.g., fruit, custard, cheese, meat)
- Sugar (for sweet fillings)
- Spices (optional)
- For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
Crafting the Perfect Dough
The foundation of any great hand pie is a flaky, tender dough. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the chilled butter cubes to the flour mixture and use a pastry blender, two forks, or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water Gradually: Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough dough.
4. Shape and Chill: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender texture.
Preparing the Filling
While the dough chills, prepare your chosen filling. Here are some ideas:
- Sweet Fillings:
- Apple: Combine diced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Berry: Mix your favorite berries with sugar and a touch of lemon juice.
- Peach: Combine sliced peaches with sugar, cornstarch, and a dash of almond extract.
- Savory Fillings:
- Chicken Pot Pie: Use leftover chicken, peas, carrots, and a creamy sauce.
- Ground Beef: Combine ground beef with onions, peppers, and your favorite spices.
- Cheese and Spinach: Sauté spinach with garlic and cheese, then mix with ricotta cheese.
Assembling the Hand Pies
Once the dough is chilled and the filling is ready, you can assemble your hand pies:
1. Roll Out the Dough: Divide the dough in half. Roll out each half into a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Cut Out Shapes: Use a cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out circles or squares from the dough. You can also use a heart-shaped cutter for a fun touch.
3. Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle or square. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
4. Brush with Egg Wash: Gently brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash for a golden brown finish.
5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
The Art of Serving
Hand pies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a delightful presentation, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or a side of your favorite dipping sauce.
Beyond the Basics: Variations and Tips
- For a crispier crust: Add 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar to the dough before chilling.
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of butter and shortening in the dough.
- For a gluten-free option: Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour.
- For a vegan option: Use vegan butter and a plant-based milk substitute for the egg wash.
- For a more rustic look: Use a fork to crimp the edges of the hand pies instead of a knife.
The Final Bite: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Making hand pies is a rewarding culinary adventure that allows you to unleash your creativity and experiment with different flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these little pockets of joy are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade hand pies!
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I freeze hand pies?
A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked hand pies. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To bake frozen hand pies, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, using store-bought pie crust is a great shortcut. Just roll it out and cut it into circles or squares.
Q: What are some other filling ideas?
A: You can experiment with various fillings, such as:
- Chocolate and Peanut Butter: Combine chocolate chips and peanut butter for a decadent treat.
- Pumpkin Spice: Mix pumpkin puree, spices, and sugar for a comforting autumnal flavor.
- Cream Cheese and Fruit: Combine cream cheese with your favorite fruit for a tangy and sweet filling.
Q: How do I know if my hand pies are cooked through?
A: The hand pies should be golden brown and the filling should be bubbling. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a hand pie; if it comes out clean, the pie is cooked through.
