Hand pies are one of the easiest and most satisfying baked treats you can make at home. These beautifully golden pastries come together with simple ingredients and can be filled with sweet or savory goodness. Whether you enjoy them as a quick breakfast, a snack on-the-go, or a warm comfort-food dessert, hand pies deliver big flavor in every bite.
This recipe is beginner-friendly, requires minimal prep time, and bakes into delicious, flaky pockets that look just like the ones in the photo. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or freezing for later!
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Ingredients
For the Dough (if making homemade):
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cold butter (cut into cubes)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ cup ice-cold water
OR
Use pre-made refrigerated pie crust for a quick version.
For the Filling:
You can choose sweet or savory:
Sweet Filling Options:
• Apple pie filling
• Cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling
• Nutella and banana
• Sweet cream cheese
Savory Filling Options:
• Ground beef and cheese
• Chicken and vegetables
• Ham and cheese
• Potato and herbs
For Finishing:
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Sugar or coarse salt (optional)
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Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
If using store-bought dough, skip to Step 2.
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until crumbly.
3. Slowly add ice water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Form into a ball, wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
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2. Roll and Cut
1. Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
2. Cut into circles or squares about 5–6 inches wide.
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3. Add the Filling
1. Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of your chosen filling into the center.
2. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape.
3. Press the edges with a fork to seal tightly.
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4. Egg Wash & Vent
1. Brush each hand pie with egg wash for a shiny golden finish.
2. Use a fork to poke 2–3 small holes on top so steam can escape.
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5. Bake
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until perfectly golden and crisp.
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Tips for Perfect Hand Pies
• Don’t overfill or they may burst open.
• Seal well using a fork or by crimping the edges.
• Chill before baking for an extra-flaky texture.
• Add sugar on top for sweet pies or coarse salt for savory pies.
• Freeze unbaked pies for quick snacks anytime.
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Serving Suggestions
Hand pies can be served warm or at room temperature. Try pairing them with:
• Vanilla ice cream (for fruit pies)
• A dipping sauce like ranch or marinara (for savory pies)
• Fresh fruit
• Hot coffee or tea
They’re a great make-ahead option for potlucks, picnics, school lunches, or busy weeknights.
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Storage
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked pies up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in an oven or air fryer until crisp again.