Why Make This Recipe
Easy Blackberry Hand Pies are a simple and delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. They are perfect for dessert, snacks, or even a fun addition to a picnic. The sweet and tangy blackberry filling combined with a flaky pastry makes each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, so you don’t need to be a master baker to impress your family and friends.
How to Make Easy Blackberry Hand Pies
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh blackberries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice to create a sweet filling; set aside for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter, cutting it into the flour with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into circles (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
- Place a spoonful of blackberry filling onto the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon and press the edges with a fork to seal.
- If desired, brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the pies are golden brown.
- Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious, fork-free treat!
How to Serve Easy Blackberry Hand Pies
Serve your Easy Blackberry Hand Pies warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a little extra sweetness.
How to Store Easy Blackberry Hand Pies
Store the hand pies in an airtight container. They can last for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well, so you can keep them in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes.
Tips to Make Easy Blackberry Hand Pies
- Make sure the butter is very cold to create a flaky crust.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; this helps the hand pies hold their shape.
- Experiment with different fruits or add some cinnamon for a new flavor twist.
Variation
You can swap blackberries for other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or apples to create different flavors. You can also add a little bit of nutmeg or vanilla to the filling for extra taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to three months.
3. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.