Introduction to Cranberry Hand Pies
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of home-baked treats. That’s where my love for Cranberry Hand Pies comes in! These delightful little pockets are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re also a way to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. Imagine the joy on your family’s faces as they bite into a flaky crust filled with sweet and tangy cranberry goodness. Trust me, these hand pies will become a cherished tradition in your home, just like they have in mine!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Hand Pies
Cranberry Hand Pies are the perfect blend of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them ideal for busy moms and professionals like us. The sweet-tart filling is a delightful surprise, and the flaky crust is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re portable! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just need a sweet treat for the family, these hand pies are sure to please everyone.
Ingredients for Cranberry Hand Pies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cranberry Hand Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh cranberries: The star of the show! Their tartness balances perfectly with the sweetness of sugar.
- Sugar: This sweetener enhances the natural flavors of the cranberries. You can adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
- Lemon juice: A splash of acidity brightens the filling and complements the cranberries beautifully.
- Cornstarch: This thickening agent helps create a luscious filling that holds together when baked.
- Refrigerated pie crusts: A time-saver! These ready-made crusts provide a flaky base without the fuss of making dough from scratch.
- Egg (for egg wash): This gives the hand pies a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish.
- Milk (for egg wash): Mixing milk with the egg adds richness to the wash, enhancing the crust’s appearance.
For those looking to experiment, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice note. If you’re in a pinch, frozen cranberries can work too! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before use. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cranberry Hand Pies
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Cranberry Hand Pies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious treats in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your hand pies bake evenly. A hot oven helps the crust become golden and flaky, while the filling bubbles up just right. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the cranberries start to burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. The sweet-tart aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist tasting!
Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crusts
Next, take your refrigerated pie crusts out of the package. Roll them out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, about 4 inches in diameter. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; the beauty of hand pies is in their rustic charm!
Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Now comes the fun part—filling and folding! Place a spoonful of the cranberry filling on one half of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, or they might burst open while baking. Fold the dough over to create a pocket and seal the edges with a fork. This step is like giving your hand pies a cozy little hug!
Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash
To give your hand pies that beautiful golden color, it’s time for the egg wash. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the tops of the hand pies. This not only adds color but also gives them a lovely shine. Your guests will be impressed before they even take a bite!
Step 6: Bake the Hand Pies
Place your assembled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different! You’ll know they’re done when the crust is flaky and the filling is bubbling.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling step is important; it allows the filling to set. Serve them warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, consider pairing them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor; frozen can work in a pinch.
- Don’t overfill the hand pies to prevent bursting during baking.
- Seal the edges well with a fork to keep the filling inside.
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.
- Let the hand pies cool completely before serving for the best texture.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard sheet works well, but a stone baking pan can enhance browning.
- Parchment paper: This keeps the hand pies from sticking; silicone mats are a great alternative.
- Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can do the trick!
- Round cutter: A glass or jar can substitute for cutting out circles.
- Medium saucepan: Any sturdy pot will work for cooking the filling.
Variations of Cranberry Hand Pies
- Apple-Cranberry Hand Pies: Add diced apples to the cranberry filling for a sweet twist. The combination of flavors is simply delightful!
- Spiced Cranberry Hand Pies: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger into the filling for a cozy, holiday-inspired flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crusts available at most grocery stores. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!
- Vegan Hand Pies: Substitute the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup for a beautiful glaze. Use a plant-based pie crust to keep it vegan-friendly.
- Chocolate-Cranberry Hand Pies: Add mini chocolate chips to the cranberry filling for a decadent surprise that chocolate lovers will adore!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Hand Pies
- Whipped cream: A dollop on the side adds a creamy contrast to the tart filling.
- Vanilla ice cream: Serve warm hand pies with a scoop for a delightful dessert experience.
- Hot cocoa: Pair with a steaming mug for a cozy holiday treat.
- Festive platter: Arrange hand pies on a decorative plate for an eye-catching presentation.
FAQs about Cranberry Hand Pies
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries can be a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using. This way, you’ll still get that delicious tart flavor in your Cranberry Hand Pies.
How do I store leftover hand pies?
To keep your hand pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready for a treat!
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cranberry filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your hand pies. This can save you time on busy days!
What can I serve with Cranberry Hand Pies?
These hand pies pair wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also serve them alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy dessert experience.
Are Cranberry Hand Pies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! You can easily make these hand pies gluten-free by using gluten-free pie crusts. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness without worry!
Final Thoughts
Making Cranberry Hand Pies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. The sweet-tart filling wrapped in a flaky crust is a delightful treat that brings smiles to faces, especially during the holiday season. I love how these hand pies can be made ahead of time, making them a stress-free addition to any gathering. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or at room temperature, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. So, roll up your sleeves and let the deliciousness unfold—your family will thank you!
Print
Cranberry Hand Pies: A Delicious Holiday Treat Awaits!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 hand pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Hand Pies are a delightful holiday treat filled with sweet and tangy cranberry filling, encased in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut them into circles.
- Place a spoonful of the cranberry filling on one half of each circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a pocket and seal the edges with a fork.
- Mix the egg and milk to create an egg wash, and brush it over the tops of the hand pies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter filling, adjust the sugar to taste.
- These hand pies can be frozen before baking for later use.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
