If you adore the sweet-tart flavor of fresh strawberries wrapped in flaky, buttery crust, then you will absolutely fall in love with this Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe. These delightful treats are perfect little pockets of sunshine, bursting with a luscious strawberry filling that practically sings with every bite. They’re charming, portable, and utterly irresistible — making them ideal for everything from casual picnics to impressive dessert spreads. Plus, the combination of a crisp, golden crust and warm fruit filling makes these hand pies an instant favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just the right ingredients is what transforms simple components into an unforgettable dessert. Each item in this list plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flaky crust, juicy filling, and subtle sweetness.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped): The star of the recipe, fresh strawberries bring vibrant color and natural sweetness.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling to balance strawberry tartness without overpowering.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the filling, ensuring it holds beautifully inside the crust without leaking.
- 1 tsp lemon juice: Enhances the strawberries’ bright flavor and cuts through richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warm, fragrant notes to deepen the overall taste profile.
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade crust): The flaky, buttery shell that encases the filling and delivers that satisfying crunch.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Creates a glossy, golden finish on the crust and helps the coarse sugar stick.
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling, optional): Adds a beautiful sparkle and delicate crunch on top after baking.
How to Make Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Toss everything gently until the strawberries are evenly coated and the cornstarch is dissolved. Let this mixture rest for about 10 minutes so the flavors meld together and the filling firms up slightly.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crust
Lay your refrigerated pie crust on a lightly floured surface and unroll it carefully. Using a round cutter or a clean glass about 4 inches in diameter, cut out circles for the hand pies. Don’t worry if you have leftover scraps; you can re-roll them to get more circles. These crust rounds will form the perfect base and top for each pie.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the strawberry filling in the center of each crust circle. Be sure not to overfill to prevent leaking during baking. Then, brush the edge of each circle lightly with beaten egg and top with another crust circle. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the pies well, giving them that pretty crimped border.
Step 4: Add Final Touches and Bake
Brush the tops of the hand pies generously with the remaining beaten egg so they bake up beautifully golden. If you like, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar on top to create a lovely sparkle and subtle crunch. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
How to Serve Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar right after baking adds a charming touch of elegance and enhances the sweet appeal without overpowering the filling. Fresh mint leaves can also brighten the presentation and offer a refreshing note that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
Side Dishes
Serve these hand pies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to transform the experience into an indulgent dessert. For a brunch spread, pair them with a light mixed greens salad or a fresh fruit salad to keep things balanced and colorful.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap individual hand pies in parchment paper tied with rustic twine for a charming gift or picnic treat. You could also present them on a tiered dessert tray filled with fresh berries for a visually stunning display that invites guests to dig in and share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their flaky texture. If you need to store them longer, refrigeration is an option but may slightly soften the crust.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze beautifully! Place unbaked pies on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring your Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe back to life, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soggy and less appealing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to remove excess moisture, which helps keep the filling from becoming too watery.
Is there a dairy-free option for the crust?
Absolutely. Look for dairy-free pie crusts at the store or make your own using vegetable shortening or coconut oil instead of butter.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
Using cornstarch in the filling thickens it nicely, and being careful not to overfill the pies will also reduce leaks. Sealing the edges firmly with egg wash and a fork helps keep everything tucked inside.
Can I make these hand pies vegan?
Yes! Substitute the pie crust with a vegan version and use a plant-based milk and maple syrup or agave nectar for brushing instead of egg wash.
How long will these hand pies keep fresh?
When stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, they’re best enjoyed within two days for peak freshness and flakiness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat full of bright strawberry flavor and flaky goodness, the Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. They’re fun to make, easy to share, and bursting with homemade charm. Trust me — once you try them, they’ll become a beloved staple for all your gatherings and cozy afternoons alike. Go ahead and bake a batch today; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these charming Strawberry Hand Pies that boast a flaky, buttery crust filled with a sweet and tangy strawberry filling. Perfect for a handheld treat, these pies combine fresh strawberries with a touch of lemon and vanilla, baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Crust
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts or homemade crust
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (for sprinkling, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed. This mixture will thicken slightly as it bakes to create a luscious filling.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Cut pie crusts: Unroll the refrigerated pie crust and using a round cutter (about 4 to 5 inches in diameter), cut out circles. You should get about 8 rounds per package.
- Assemble hand pies: Place a spoonful of the strawberry filling in the center of each pie crust round, ensuring not to overfill to prevent spilling during baking. Brush the edges with beaten egg to help seal the pies.
- Seal edges: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together and crimp with a fork for a decorative seal and added security.
- Apply egg wash and sugar: Brush the tops of each hand pie with beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired to add a lovely crunch and extra sweetness.
- Bake: Arrange the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly for easier handling. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a prettier crust, you can brush the edges with milk instead of egg wash if preferred.
- If fresh strawberries are not in season, frozen strawberries can be used; just thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing.
- Hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in a low oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice twist.
