Cranberry hand pies are delightful little treats that bring the tartness of cranberries and the sweetness of sugar together in a scrumptious, flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, these hand pies not only serve as a delicious dessert option but also make for a charming snack. Their bright red filling and golden crust create a visual feast, making them a favorite among family and friends, especially during the holiday season.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Cranberry Hand Pies
These cranberry hand pies offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, all wrapped in a beautifully flaky pie crust. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or just a cozy night in, these hand pies are a wonderful choice. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your guests. Plus, they fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that sparks the spirit of festivity!
How to Make Cranberry Hand Pies
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your pies bake evenly and come out beautifully golden brown.
Step 2: Mixing
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Assembling
Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into circles, approximately 4-6 inches in diameter, using a sharp knife or a cookie cutter. Place a spoonful of the cranberry mixture on one half of each circle.
Step 4: Finishing
Fold the dough over the filling and press to seal the edges. To give them a nice shine, beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of milk and brush this egg wash over the tops of each hand pie. Cut small slits in the top of each pie for steam to escape during baking. Now, place the hand pies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let them cool before serving.
How to Serve Cranberry Hand Pies
Serve cranberry hand pies warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a warm cup of cider or tea.
How to Store Cranberry Hand Pies
Once cooled, you can store cranberry hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, simply reheat them in the oven until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Hand Pies
- Make sure the cranberry mixture is thick enough before filling the pies. This prevents soggy bottoms.
- You can substitute cranberries with other fruits like cherries or blueberries for different flavors.
- If the edges of the pies don’t seal well, use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Letting the pie crust sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling can help make it easier to work with.
Delicious Variations
- Add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the cranberry filling for a festive flavor twist.
- Experiment with the crust by using a graham cracker crust for a different texture.
- Drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled hand pies for added sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce instead of fresh cranberries?
Yes, you can substitute with store-bought cranberry sauce. Just reduce the sugar in the recipe, as many sauces are already sweetened. -
How do I know when the pies are done baking?
Look for a golden brown color on the crust. The pies should also be bubbly around the filling. -
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cranberry filling a day in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble the pies right before baking. -
What can I serve with cranberry hand pies?
They are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with whipped cream, ice cream, or a warm drink like tea or cider. -
Can I bake the pies from frozen?
Yes, you can bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
Cranberry hand pies are not just a treat; they are an experience filled with delightful flavors and the joy of baking. With their ease of preparation and their inviting aroma, these hand pies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe — they are perfect for sharing and will leave everyone asking for more! Happy baking!
