Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful pastries feature a fresh, sweet filling that comes together quickly, making them an excellent choice for brunches, picnics, or even a cozy night in. With pre-made pie crust, you can whip up these hand pies without spending hours in the kitchen. Each bite is packed with juicy blueberries and a hint of lemon, ensuring a burst of flavor that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The use of pre-made pie crust means you can skip the lengthy dough-making process.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh blueberries and lemon juice creates a deliciously sweet and tangy filling.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual snack, these hand pies are versatile enough to fit any event.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in the kitchen! They’ll love helping to fill and crimp the pies.
• Deliciously Portable: These hand pies are easy to take on the go – perfect for lunch boxes or road trips.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A medium saucepan
• Rolling pin
• Round cookie cutter (3 1/2 diameter)
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the blueberry filling evenly without burning.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the pie crust easily to achieve an even thickness.
• Round cookie cutter: Ensures uniformity in your hand pies for consistent baking results.

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

• a egg
• 1 tablespoon water

For Drizzle

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

How to Make Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Step 1: Cook the Blueberries

Place the blueberries in a medium saucepan and turn heat to medium. Cook while stirring occasionally until they become soft and juices are released (about 9 minutes).

Step 2: Thicken the Filling

Combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl. Add this mixture to the cooked blueberries. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and add lemon juice. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 4: Cut Pie Circles

Using a rolling pin, roll out one pie crust on a floured surface. Cut 16 circles (each about 3 1/2 in diameter). Gather scraps as needed to re-roll.

Step 5: Fill & Crimp Pies

Place half of the circles on parchment-lined sheets. Add about 1 tablespoon of filling onto each circle. Top with remaining circles, crimp edges with a fork, and make a few slits on top.

Step 6: Brush & Bake

Combine egg and water then brush this mixture over the tops of your hand pies. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown (it’s okay if some filling oozes out).

Step 7: Prepare Drizzle

Once cooled, mix powdered sugar with milk until reaching desired consistency. Drizzle over each pie before serving.

Enjoy your delectable Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies!

How to Serve Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these hand pies are versatile and satisfying. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm blueberry filling, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures.

Drizzled with Lemon Glaze

• Add a zesty lemon glaze on top for an extra burst of flavor that complements the blueberries perfectly.

Accompanied by Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, enhancing the sweetness of the hand pies.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Garnish your plate with fresh berries for a pop of color and an added fruity element to your dessert.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include these hand pies in a brunch spread alongside muffins and pastries for a delightful variety.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your hand pies with a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and create a cozy experience.

How to Perfect Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

To make sure your Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies turn out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh blueberries – Fresh fruit yields the best flavor and texture. Frozen blueberries may release too much juice.

• Pre-bake the pie crust – For an extra crispy crust, consider pre-baking it slightly before adding the filling.

• Seal edges well – Crimping or sealing edges tightly helps prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

• Chill before baking – Refrigerate assembled hand pies for about 15 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

• Monitor baking time – Keep an eye on them while baking; remove when golden brown to ensure they don’t burn.

• Experiment with spices – Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of your blueberry filling.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them.

1. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and more fresh berries for a refreshing contrast that balances sweetness.

2. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides freshness and complements the flavors of the hand pies.

3. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which pair well with sweet desserts like these hand pies.

4. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – For added indulgence, serve fluffy donuts dusted with cinnamon sugar as an extra treat.

5. Chilled Lemonade – A glass of chilled lemonade offers a tangy refreshment that contrasts nicely with sweet desserts.

6. Nutty Granola Bars – These bars provide crunch and nutrients, making them an excellent snack option alongside your hand pies.

7. Ice Cream Floats – Pairing soda floats with vanilla ice cream creates a fun dessert experience that kids will love.

8. Chocolate Fondue – Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of pie for an interactive treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Overripe Blueberries: Using overly ripe or mushy blueberries can lead to a watery filling. Choose fresh, firm blueberries for the best flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Cooling Step: If you don’t let the filling cool slightly before assembling, it can make the dough soggy. Allow the filling to cool for at least 10 minutes to maintain a flaky crust.

• Not Crimping Edges Properly: Failing to crimp the edges securely can result in your pies opening up while baking. Use a fork to press down firmly on the edges for a tight seal.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can cause uneven baking. Make sure your oven is preheated to 425°F for perfectly golden brown hand pies.

• Not Making Slits on Top: Forgetting to cut slits in the top of each pie can trap steam inside. This may cause your hand pies to burst during baking, so remember those slits!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

Freezing Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• You can freeze these hand pies for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently so they don’t get soggy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries for Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

How do I customize my Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in other berries for variety. Experiment with different fillings such as cream cheese or chocolate!

What should I serve with my Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies?

These hand pies pair wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of lemon glaze for added sweetness.

How do I know when my hand pies are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown color on top and bubbling filling around the edges. They should smell delicious when fully baked!

Final Thoughts

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies are not only tasty but also versatile. They’re perfect as a dessert or snack and can be customized with various fillings. Try this easy recipe and enjoy each delightful bite bursting with blueberry flavor!