Cherry Hand Pies: A Step-by-Step Guide to Delicious Mini Pies

Cherry hand pies encapsulate the essence of summer and the joy of baking in a delightful, portable form. These miniature delights, bursting with the sweet and tart flavors of cherries encased in a flaky, buttery crust, are perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to cozy winter gatherings. This comprehensive guide will take you through every step of creating the perfect cherry hand pie, ensuring your baking adventure is both successful and enjoyable.

Selecting the Right Cherries

The foundation of a great cherry hand pie lies in the quality and type of cherries used. Cherries come in numerous varieties, each with its unique flavor profile, ranging from the deep, sugary sweetness of sweet cherries to the bright, tangy kick of tart cherries. The choice between sweet and tart cherries depends on personal preference and the desired balance of sweetness and acidity in your pies.

Sweet Cherries

Sweet cherries, such as the Bing or Rainier varieties, are known for their rich flavor and are perfect for those who prefer a less tart pie. These cherries are typically larger and firmer, making them easier to pit and chop for your filling.

Tart Cherries

Tart cherries, like the Montmorency variety, are the classic choice for cherry pies. Their natural acidity balances the sweetness of the pie, providing a more complex flavor profile. Tart cherries are often more readily available in canned or frozen form, which can be a convenient option for pie-making.

For an in-depth look at selecting the best cherries for your baking needs, consider exploring resources like this guide to choosing the right cherries for baking, which offers valuable insights into the nuances of different cherry varieties.

The History and Charm of Hand Pies

Hand pies have a storied history, tracing their origins back to ancient civilizations where the convenience of a portable, self-contained meal was invaluable. These early versions of hand pies were often filled with meats and vegetables, serving as a hearty meal for travelers and workers. Over time, the hand pie evolved, embracing sweet fillings and becoming a beloved treat across cultures.

The charm of hand pies lies in their versatility and portability, making them a perfect snack for on-the-go enjoyment or a delightful addition to any meal. For a fascinating journey through the history of pies, including the evolution of hand pies, this exploration of pie history provides a rich context for the tradition of pie-making.

Incorporating insights from our own collection, our guide on Handheld Savory Pies: Delicious Recipes & Serving Tips offers a savory counterpoint to the sweet cherry hand pie, showcasing the wide range of flavors and fillings that hand pies can encompass.

Crafting the Perfect Cherry Hand Pie

Ingredients

To embark on your cherry hand pie adventure, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Crust:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, chilled
• For the Filling:
  • 2 cups pitted sweet or tart cherries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the cherries and personal preference)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice
• For Assembly:
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Coarse sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Crust

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
2. Stir in the sour cream until the dough begins to come together. If the dough seems dry, add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until it just comes together.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Preparing the Cherry Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon or lime juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Continue cooking for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Assembling the Hand Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out rounds using a 4-inch cookie cutter or a glass.
3. Spoon a small amount of the cherry filling onto the center of half of the rounds, leaving a border around the edge. Brush the edges with the beaten egg, then place a second dough round on top of each filled round. Press the edges to seal, then crimp with a fork.
4. Brush the tops of the pies with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if using. Make a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Tricks for Recipe Success

• Butter Temperature: For a flaky crust, ensure your butter and sour cream are well-chilled before use. This helps prevent the fat from melting before baking, creating those coveted flaky layers.
• Filling Consistency: Adjust the amount of sugar and cornstarch based on the juiciness and sweetness of your cherries. The goal is a thick, but not dry, filling that will not leak during baking.
• Sealing the Edges: Be diligent in sealing the edges of your hand pies to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. A tight seal also helps maintain the shape of the pies.
• Baking to Perfection: Keep an eye on your pies as they bake. The ideal cherry hand pie is golden brown with a slightly crisp crust and a bubbling filling. Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving to let the filling set.

Serving and Enjoying Cherry Hand Pies

Cherry hand pies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For a delightful twist, serve your hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

FAQs

• Can I use canned cherries? Yes, canned cherries can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar to taste.
• How can I make my hand pies gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
• Can cherry hand pies be frozen? Yes, unbaked hand pies can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for storage. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Cherry hand pies are a testament to the simple pleasures of baking. By following this guide and incorporating your own creative twists, you can master the art of making these delightful treats. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, the process of crafting these pies is sure to bring joy and satisfaction. For those who love no-bake options, our Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake: Easy No-Bake Recipe offers a sweet complement to these baked delights, enriching your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!