Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

All it takes is 30 minutes to prepare these Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with their flaky crust and citrus glaze! Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these hand pies are bursting with flavor and easy to make. The combination of blueberries and lemon creates a refreshing twist that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying one with your afternoon tea, these hand pies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious batch of Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies.
• Flaky Crust: The refrigerated pie crust ensures a buttery, flaky texture without the fuss of making dough from scratch.
• Bursting with Flavor: The mix of sweet blueberry filling and zesty lemon gives each bite a refreshing taste.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion—from picnics to potlucks, these hand pies are always a hit.
• Fun to Make: Get the kids involved in folding and sealing the pies for a fun family activity!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Biscuit cutter (4-inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even baking. It allows hot air to circulate around the pies, helping them bake evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Your hand pies will slide right off after baking.
• Biscuit cutter: Ensures uniform circles for your hand pies. This helps in achieving consistent size and shape for even cooking.

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Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 boxes refrigerated pie crust (14.1 oz each)
– 1 can blueberry pie filling (21 oz)
– 1 lemon (zested)
– 1 egg (separated)
– 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon juice

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F. Remove pie crusts from package and allow to come to room temperature while you prepare filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

• Dump blueberry pie filling in a shallow bowl.
• Add lemon zest and mix until blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Cut the Pie Crust

• Unroll pie crusts on a clean surface.
• Cut out 6 circles from each crust using a 4-inch biscuit cutter. You may need to re-roll scraps for the last circle.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Hand Pies

• Using a 1 tablespoon scoop, drop blueberry pie filling into the center of each pie crust circle.
• Brush edges with egg yolk.
• Fold in half and pinch edges completely.
• Fold pinched edges over and press with the tines of a fork to seal.
• Poke each hand pie with a fork once, to prevent bursting.

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Beat egg white in a small bowl until frothy.
– Brush over the tops of each hand pie.
– Bake on parchment paper lined baking sheet (1 inch apart) for about 15 minutes, until browned.

Step 6: Glaze the Hand Pies

While pies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
– Remove cooked pies from baking sheet while warm, then drop them into glaze, coating completely.
– Use two forks to flip them in the glaze carefully.
– Return to parchment paper and allow to set for about 5 minutes. ENJOY!

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual snack or a festive dessert, these hand pies are sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a vibrant and refreshing contrast.
• Sliced Citrus: Lemon or orange slices add a zesty brightness that complements the flavors of the hand pies.

Accompany with Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of sweetened whipped cream on top of each hand pie enhances the dessert’s richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding lemon zest or vanilla extract to your whipped cream for an extra flavor boost.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream brings creamy goodness that balances the tartness of the filling.
• Lemon Sorbet: For a lighter option, lemon sorbet provides a refreshing contrast that works beautifully with the hand pies.

How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Creating perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your hand pies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Chilled Ingredients: Keep your pie crusts chilled until ready to use. This results in a flaky texture once baked.
• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough blueberry filling to avoid bursting during baking. A tablespoon per pie is usually perfect.
• Seal Properly: Make sure to pinch and fork-seal your edges well. This prevents any filling from leaking during baking.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the hand pies as they bake; ovens can vary, and you want them golden brown without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies make for a fantastic dessert, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the sweetness of the hand pies.
2. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast to the sweet pastry.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruits adds texture and makes a delightful side dish.
4. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and color, making it an appealing accompaniment.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert is nutritious and pairs well with the fruity flavors of the hand pies.
6. Coffee or Tea: Serving warm beverages enhances flavors while providing warmth, especially after meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not letting crusts come to room temperature: If you use chilled pie crusts directly, they may crack when you roll them out. Always allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before using.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the hand pies to burst while baking. Stick to 1 tablespoon of filling for each pie to ensure they seal properly.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives your hand pies a beautiful golden color and shine. Don’t forget to brush the tops with beaten egg white before baking.
• Neglecting fork pricks: Failing to poke holes in the top of the pies can lead to a messy oven from bursting pies. A simple fork poke helps steam escape while baking.
• Cutting uneven circles: If your pie circles are not uniform, some will cook faster than others. Use a consistent 4-inch cutter for even-sized hand pies.
• Not cooling before glazing: Glazing hot pies can make the glaze runny instead of setting perfectly. Always let them cool slightly before dipping into the glaze.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a single layer if possible to avoid sticking.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked hand pies on a parchment-lined tray for up to 3 months.
• Once frozen, transfer them into airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds but be aware this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies.

Can I use fresh blueberries?

Yes, you can substitute fresh blueberries for the canned filling. Just mix them with sugar and lemon zest before filling the crusts.

How do I customize my Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies?

Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in other fruits such as raspberries or strawberries for a twist on flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I make these hand pies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pie crusts available at most grocery stores as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. They make a great dessert or snack option that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with different fruits or glazes, making each batch unique and delightful. Try this easy recipe today!