Description
These Blueberry Hand Pies are delightful individual pastries filled with a sweet and tangy blueberry filling. The flaky homemade crust pairs perfectly with the juicy blueberry mixture, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these hand pies bake to a beautiful golden brown with a crispy exterior and a luscious fruit filling inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Assembly & Topping
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.
- Prepare the Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before assembling the pies.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when your pies are assembled.
- Roll and Cut the Dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into circles or rectangles, depending on your preference, making sure you have an even number for tops and bottoms.
- Assemble the Pies: Place a spoonful of the cooled blueberry filling onto half of the dough pieces, leaving some space around the edges. Cover each filled piece with a matching dough piece.
- Seal the Edges: Press the edges of the pies together firmly with a fork to seal. Cut small slits in the tops of the pies to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to make the egg wash. Brush this lightly over the tops of the pies. Optionally, sprinkle with coarse sugar for an added crunch and sparkle.
- Bake the Pies: Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving. This cooling step helps the filling set and prevents burning.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh or thoroughly thawed frozen blueberries for the filling.
- Be careful not to overwork the dough to keep the crust flaky.
- The coarse sugar topping is optional but adds a nice texture and sparkle.
- These hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven to keep the crust crisp.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American