Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portability: These hand pies are easy to carry, making them ideal for picnics, lunchboxes, or as a quick snack.
Simplicity: Utilizing store-bought pie crusts streamlines the preparation process without compromising on taste.
Fresh Flavor: The homemade blueberry filling offers a burst of natural sweetness and tartness in every bite.
Versatility: Easily adaptable with different fillings or glazes to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh blueberries
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1½ tablespoons cornstarch
Pinch of salt
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 package of pie crusts (contains 2 crusts)
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
¾ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the blueberries until they release their juices.
- Add granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Allow the filling to cool for about 15 minutes.
Assemble the Pies:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut out 16 circles, approximately 3½ inches in diameter, re-rolling scraps as needed.
- Place a tablespoon of the cooled blueberry filling onto the center of 8 circles.
- Cover each filled circle with another dough circle. Press the edges together with a fork to seal, and cut small slits on top for steam to escape.
Bake:
- Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush it over the tops of the pies.
- Place the pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Glaze (Optional):
- Mix powdered sugar with milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pies and allow it to set before serving.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 8 hand pies
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Alternative Fillings: Substitute blueberries with apples, cherries, peaches, or blackberries for different flavors.
Dough Options: Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for a lighter, flakier texture.

Storage: Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Individually wrap each pie in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm refrigerated or thawed pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

What are hand pies?

Hand pies are small, portable pastries filled with sweet or savory ingredients, designed to be eaten without utensils.

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used. Thaw and drain them before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

Is it okay to use store-bought pie crust?

Absolutely, store-bought pie crusts are convenient and work well for this recipe.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Ensure edges are well-sealed by pressing firmly with a fork, and avoid overfilling the pies.

Can I fry these hand pies instead of baking?

Yes, frying is an option. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry each pie until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.

What other fillings can I use?

Try fillings like apple-cinnamon, cherry, peach, or even savory mixtures like meat and vegetables.

How can I make the crust flakier?

Using cold butter and handling the dough minimally helps achieve a flakier crust.

Do I need to vent the pies?

Yes, cutting small slits on top allows steam to escape, preventing the pies from bursting.

Can I add spices to the filling?

Certainly, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor of the blueberry filling.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or more milk to thin it out.

Homemade Blueberry Hand Pies

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Enjoy the irresistible flavors of homemade blueberry hand pies, a portable and delightful twist on traditional blueberry pie. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with a sweet, tangy blueberry filling and topped with a simple glaze, making them perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a charming dessert. Easy to make with store-bought crusts, these hand pies are a fun, customizable treat for any occasion!

Instructions

Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the blueberries until they release their juices.
- Add granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Allow the filling to cool for about 15 minutes.
Assemble the Pies:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut out 16 circles (about 3½ inches in diameter), re-rolling scraps as needed.
- Place a tablespoon of the cooled blueberry filling onto the center of 8 circles.
- Cover each filled circle with another dough circle. Press the edges together with a fork to seal, and cut small slits on top for steam to escape.
Bake the Pies:
- Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush it over the tops of the pies.
- Place the pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Glaze (Optional):
- Mix powdered sugar with milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pies and allow it to set before serving.

Notes

Alternative Fillings: Swap blueberries for apples, cherries, peaches, or blackberries for different flavor combinations.
Dough Options: Use puff pastry for a lighter, flakier texture.
Freezing Tip: Freeze the pies individually, then wrap each in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Glaze Thickness: Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin it out.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American