Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With a fresh blueberry filling that is quick to prepare and using pre-made pie crust, these hand pies offer both convenience and flavor. Each bite bursts with sweet blueberry goodness, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these delicious hand pies in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon juice creates a wonderfully sweet and tangy filling.
• Versatile Dessert: These hand pies can be served warm or cold, making them perfect for any season or event.
• Great for Sharing: With 16 servings per batch, they’re perfect for parties, family gatherings, or potlucks.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to mix in other fruits or spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• pie cutter
• medium saucepan
• mixing bowl
• rolling pin
• parchment paper
• baking sheets
• pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie Cutter: Ensures uniform circles for your hand pies, leading to even baking and a professional look.
• Medium Saucepan: Ideal for cooking the blueberry filling; it allows for even heat distribution which helps in thickening the mixture perfectly.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying the egg wash on top of the pies for that golden finish.

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 Pie 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 Blueberry Filling

1. Place the fresh 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 is thickened.
4. Remove from heat and add lemon juice. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cut 16 circles out of the dough using a pie cutter (about 3 1/2 diameter). You will need to gather scraps and re-roll as necessary.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place half of the circles on the parchment paper.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of filling on each circle.
3. Place the other half of circles on top; crimp edges with a fork and make a few slits on top.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash

Combine the egg and water, then brush tops of hand pies with this mixture.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown—it’s okay if some filling starts to ooze out.

Step 7: Make Glaze

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

Enjoy your delicious Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies!

How to Serve Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a dessert or a snack, these hand pies are versatile and can complement many occasions.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. The creamy texture balances the sweet blueberry filling perfectly.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling a lemon glaze over the hand pies. Combine powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice for a refreshing touch.

Accompanied by Fresh Whipped Cream

• Pair your hand pies with freshly whipped cream for an airy contrast. This adds richness and makes each bite more indulgent.

Alongside Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of mixed fresh berries to add color and extra fruity flavor. This also makes for an attractive presentation.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your homemade blueberry hand pies with a cup of coffee or tea. The warm drink complements the sweetness of the pie beautifully.

How to Perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Creating the perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your hand pies turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh blueberries will provide the best flavor and texture in your filling.
• Chill Your Dough – Keep your pie crust cold before baking. This helps achieve a flakier texture when baked.
• Don’t Overfill – Use just enough filling in each circle to prevent overflow during baking. A tablespoon is usually perfect.
• Seal Edges Well – Make sure to crimp edges securely with a fork. This prevents the filling from leaking out while baking.
• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on the pies as they bake, since ovens may vary. Remove them when golden brown for optimal taste.
• Cool Before Serving – Let the hand pies cool slightly after baking to firm up the filling, making them easier to eat.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic choice that pairs wonderfully with warm fruit desserts.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a healthy, refreshing side.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Toast – Sweeten toasted bread with cinnamon sugar for an easy yet delicious complement.
4. Fruit Salad – A bright mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
5. Cheese Plate – Offer a variety of cheeses that contrast nicely with sweet pies, such as creamy brie or tangy goat cheese.
6. Hot Chocolate – A rich beverage that pairs well, especially during cooler months, enhancing the cozy feel.
7. Lemon Sorbet – A light and zesty sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser after indulging in sweet pies.
8. Coffee Cake – Serve alongside slices of coffee cake for an extra layer of sweetness at brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies is fun, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Underestimating the cooling time: Allowing the filling to cool slightly before sealing the pies prevents sogginess. Rushing this step leads to wet crusts.
• Not sealing properly: Ensure you crimp the edges well with a fork. This prevents the filling from leaking during baking and keeps your hand pies intact.
• Skipping the egg wash: Brushing the tops with an egg wash gives them a beautiful golden color. Without it, your pies may look pale and unappetizing.
• Overfilling: Adding too much filling will make it hard to seal the pies and can cause them to burst in the oven. Stick to about 1 tablespoon per pie.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheating your oven is crucial for even baking. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked pies.
• Using old blueberries: Fresh, plump blueberries yield a better flavor and texture. Using old or mushy berries can affect both taste and appearance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure they have cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Freeze for up to 3 months if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm. Be careful not to overheat as this can make them soggy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before using them in your filling.

How do I make my pie crust from scratch?

You can easily make pie crust using flour, butter, salt, and water. For a quick option, store-bought crust works great too!

What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or strawberries, or even mix berries together for a delicious twist.

How do I know when my hand pies are done?

Your hand pies should be golden brown on top and slightly puffed. If you see juices bubbling out of slits on top, they’re ready!

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with different fillings or toppings according to your taste. They make a perfect dessert or snack anytime. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!