These Easy Homemade Peach Hand Pies are a treat that can brighten any day! Packed with sweet peaches and wrapped in a flaky crust, they’re perfect for a snack or dessert.
Making these pie pockets is a blast! I love how I can enjoy them warm from the oven, and the gooey peach filling makes a delicious mess—just the way I like it! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are the best for this recipe. However, if they’re out of season, canned peaches work too! Just make sure to drain them well. For a twist, you can use other fruits like apricots or berries.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is typically used, but you can also try brown sugar for a richer flavor. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity accordingly.
Pie Crusts: Store-bought pie crusts are great for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pie crusts made with flour, butter, and water add a personal touch. Gluten-free pie crusts are also available for those with dietary needs.
Cornstarch: This thickener ensures your filling isn’t runny. You can substitute it with flour if you don’t have cornstarch, but you may need a little more flour to achieve the same consistency.
How Do I Seal Hand Pies Properly?
Sealing the edges is crucial to keep the delicious filling inside. Here’s how you can do it effectively:
- After adding the filling, brush the edges with beaten egg to help the crust stick together.
- Fold the top over to create a half-moon shape, and press the edges with your fingers to secure them.
- For a decorative touch and extra security, use a fork to crimp the edges, making sure they are sealed well.
This way, you’ll enjoy every bite without worrying about spills when they bake! Happy baking!
Easy Homemade Peach Hand Pies
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or canned peaches, drained)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes for baking. So, expect a total of about 40 minutes before you can dig into these delicious hand pies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Make the Peach Filling:
Next, grab a medium-sized bowl and mix together the diced peaches, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Gently stir until the peaches are nicely coated. This step helps thicken the filling as it cooks!
3. Prepare the Pie Crusts:
Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts and cut each one into squares or circles (about 4-6 pieces each). The size is up to you—just keep your hand pies bite-sized!
4. Assemble the Hand Pies:
Place approximately 2 tablespoons of the peach filling in the center of each crust piece, making sure to leave some space around the edges for sealing. It’s like a little peach pillow!
5. Seal the Edges:
Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg wash to help seal everything nicely. Fold each crust piece over the filling into a half-moon shape, and press the edges firmly with a fork to crimp them and seal everything inside.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Carefully place the assembled hand pies on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter or more egg wash for a lovely golden color when they bake.
7. Cut Steam Vents:
Using a small knife, cut a little slit on the top of each pie. This allows steam to escape while they bake, preventing any sogginess!
8. Bake Your Pies:
Now, it’s time for the oven! Bake the hand pies for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Make the Glaze:
While the pies are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Adjust the milk if you want a thicker or thinner glaze.
10. Cool and Glaze:
Once the pies are done baking, let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then, drizzle or brush the sweet glaze on top of each warm pie. Allow the glaze to set a bit before serving.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for! Serve these delicious, warm peach hand pies to family and friends, and watch them disappear. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Homemade Peach Hand Pies
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. This will help prevent your filling from being too runny.
How Do I Store Leftover Hand Pies?
Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispy texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute, but use a little extra since it’s less effective. Tapioca starch is also a great alternative if you have it on hand!
Can I Make These Hand Pies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the hand pies and refrigerate them for a day before baking, or freeze them before baking. If frozen, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
