There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, flaky crust filled with sweet, tangy strawberry filling. These strawberry hand pies are a delightful treat that checks all the boxes—easy to make, visually stunning, and bursting with flavor. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s perfect for summer picnics, holiday parties, or just a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is for you. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Hand pies have been a favorite in my family for years. There’s something so charming about their portable size and rustic look. Plus, strawberries are the star of this recipe, and who can resist their juicy sweetness? This recipe combines buttery, flaky pastry with a vibrant strawberry filling, making each bite an absolute dream.
The Story Behind Strawberry Hand Pies
The history of hand pies is as comforting as the pies themselves. These little treats trace back to centuries-old traditions of making portable pastries for workers in fields and factories. They’re essentially miniature versions of a pie, designed for convenience but without sacrificing flavor.
As a kid, I remember my grandmother making hand pies with whatever fruit was in season. When strawberries were at their peak, she’d whip up batches of these perfectly flaky treats, and we’d devour them fresh from the oven. Now, I carry on the tradition, and every bite reminds me of those carefree summer afternoons.
Strawberry hand pies are especially popular during strawberry season, typically late spring through early summer. Their vibrant red filling and golden crust make them a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even Valentine’s Day celebrations.
Ingredients: The Secret to Perfect Strawberry Hand Pies
Let’s talk about ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making these hand pies irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor. If they’re not in season, frozen strawberries work just as well—just thaw and drain them before using.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the filling. Adjust the amount based on how sweet your strawberries are.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the filling and balances the sweetness.
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling so it doesn’t leak out during baking.
- All-Purpose Flour: For making the buttery, flaky dough. You could use pastry flour for an even softer crust.
- Unsalted Butter: Keep it cold! Cold butter is the secret to that perfect flaky texture.
- Egg: Used for an egg wash to give the pies a golden, glossy finish.
- Salt: A pinch enhances the flavor of both the crust and the filling.
If you have dietary restrictions, you can swap out ingredients. For gluten-free pies, use a gluten-free flour blend. Vegan? Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and skip the egg wash in favor of almond milk.
Equipment You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is that you don’t need anything fancy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the pie dough.
- Pastry Cutter or Knife: To cut the dough into neat rectangles or circles.
- Baking Sheets: Line these with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mixing Bowls: For prepping the dough and filling.
- Fork: Useful for crimping the edges of the pies.
- Pastry Brush: Helps apply the egg wash evenly.
If you don’t have a pastry cutter, don’t worry—just use a sharp knife or even a pizza cutter. And if you’re new to baking, consider investing in a quality rolling pin. It makes all the difference!
Preparation Method
Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the steps for making these easy strawberry hand pies.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups (310g) of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp (5g) of salt, and 1 tbsp (12g) of sugar. Add 1 cup (225g) of cold, unsalted butter, cut into small cubes. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until pea-sized crumbs form. Gradually add 6-8 tbsp (90-120ml) of ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: While the dough chills, hull and dice 2 cups (300g) of fresh strawberries. In a saucepan, combine strawberries, ⅓ cup (67g) of sugar, 2 tsp (10ml) of lemon juice, and 1 tbsp (8g) of cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Let it cool completely.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles or circles, about 4 inches wide.
- Assemble the Pies: Place a spoonful of filling onto half of the dough pieces, leaving space around the edges. Cover with the remaining dough pieces and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges, then cut small slits in the top for venting.
- Apply the Egg Wash: Beat 1 egg with 1 tbsp (15ml) of water and brush over the pies. Sprinkle with sugar for extra sparkle.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are a few tips to ensure your strawberry hand pies turn out perfect:
- Keep your butter and water cold for the flakiest crust. Warm ingredients can lead to tough pastry.
- If your dough is sticky, wrap it in plastic and chill it for 10-15 minutes before rolling.
- Don’t overfill the pies. Too much filling can cause them to leak during baking.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- For an extra golden crust, add a pinch of salt to the egg wash.
Variations & Adaptations
Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:
- Seasonal Filling: Swap strawberries for peaches, blueberries, or apples depending on the time of year.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and skip the egg wash—try brushing with almond milk instead.
- Savory Twist: Stuff the pies with cheese and herbs for a savory option.
My personal favorite variation? Adding a splash of vanilla extract to the filling—it brings out the natural sweetness of the strawberries.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve these hand pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert. They’re equally delicious at room temperature, making them perfect for picnics or lunchbox treats.
To store, place the pies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—they’ll taste just as fresh as the day they were baked!
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Here’s a rough breakdown per hand pie:
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 3g
Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, making these pies a sweet treat with a healthful kick. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the sugar in the filling slightly without compromising flavor.
Conclusion
Making these strawberry hand pies is more than just baking—it’s crafting little pockets of joy. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, they’re a dessert worth savoring. Customize the recipe to fit your taste, and don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to see how you make them your own!
Let me know in the comments how yours turned out, and if you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family. Happy baking!
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess liquid in the filling.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Don’t overfill the pies, and make sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance.
What can I use instead of an egg wash?
Try brushing the pies with almond milk or melted butter for a similar effect.
Can I freeze the hand pies before baking?
Yes, assemble the pies and freeze them on a baking sheet. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
