Imagine biting into a warm, flaky crust filled with juicy, spiced peaches that instantly take you to a sunny summer afternoon. This Peach Hand Pies Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the comforting texture of homemade pastry with the fresh, natural sweetness of ripe peaches. Perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack, these hand pies are irresistibly portable and bursting with flavor, making them a favorite to share with friends and family. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe promises an enjoyable cooking experience and a delicious result that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these peach hand pies lies in their simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from enhancing flavor to achieving the perfect texture and color. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create these charming little delights.
- 2 cups peeled and diced fresh peaches: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and juiciness that make the filling shine.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds the right touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the peaches.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling so it’s perfectly luscious and not runny.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives a warm, comforting spice note that complements the peaches beautifully.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors while balancing the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling with a hint of tartness and helps preserve its vibrant color.
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade): Offers flaky, buttery layers that encase the sweet filling perfectly.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Creates a gorgeous golden finish and helps seal the pies.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling): Adds a sparkling crunch and extra sweetness on top.
How to Make Peach Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peach Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a medium bowl, mix together those juicy diced peaches with granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. Stir everything gently until the peaches are evenly coated in this fragrant mixture. Setting it aside allows the flavors to meld wonderfully before baking.
Step 2: Cut and Fill the Pie Crusts
Lightly flour your surface and roll out your pie crust sheets. Using a 4 to 5-inch round cutter, cut out circles from the dough, which will form the base of your hand pies. Spoon 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the peach filling into the center of each circle—don’t overfill to make sealing easier and prevent leaking during baking.
Step 3: Seal and Prepare for Baking
Brush the edges of each dough circle with beaten egg; this acts like glue to perfectly seal your pies. Fold each dough circle over to create a charming half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly with a fork for a pretty, rustic pattern and a tight seal. Place the pies on your prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with more egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you want that extra sparkle and crunch. Don’t forget to cut a small slit atop each pie to let steam escape and avoid sogginess.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re beautifully golden brown and filling bubbles gently through the vents. Let them cool slightly before serving to enjoy warm, flaky goodness without burning your fingers!
How to Serve Peach Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
While these hand pies are delicious just as they are, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates their charm. A sprig of mint or a thin slice of peach on top can also add a fresh, pretty touch to your serving plate.
Side Dishes
Pair your peach hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of creamy Greek yogurt for a luscious contrast. A cup of tea or a chilled glass of iced tea makes a refreshing accompaniment, balancing the warmth and sweetness of the pies perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
These hand pies are already perfectly portable and inviting, but try serving them on a rustic wooden board with fresh peach slices and edible flowers for a stunning dessert spread. You can also wrap them individually in parchment paper tied with twine for delightful picnic treats that impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any uneaten peach hand pies completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them flaky, avoid refrigeration unless your kitchen is very warm, which could make the crust soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked pies by preparing them through sealing and cutting slits, then placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, about an hour. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to bring back that flaky crust and warm filling without drying it out—avoid microwaving, which tends to make pastry soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for this Peach Hand Pies Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the filling runny. Patting them dry is key for the best texture.
Is it possible to make the pie crust from scratch?
Yes, homemade pie crust works wonderfully and adds a lovely personal touch. Just be sure to chill it well before rolling out for the flakiest results.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
Sealing the edges with egg wash and pressing firmly with a fork helps create a tight barrier. Also, avoid overfilling each pie and remember to cut small vents on top to release steam.
Can I add other spices to the filling?
Definitely! A dash of vanilla or almond extract goes beautifully with peaches. Some folks also enjoy a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and complexity.
Are these pies suitable for freezing after baking?
You can freeze baked peach hand pies, but be mindful that reheating might affect the crust’s crispness. It’s often better to freeze them before baking for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making peach hand pies from scratch—the aroma filling your kitchen, the flaky bites of pastry, and that sweet, spiced peach filling bringing smiles all around. This Peach Hand Pies Recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the simple joy of fresh fruit and homemade desserts. I can’t wait for you to try it and share these delightful hand pies with your favorite people!
Print
Peach Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these homemade peach hand pies, a perfect summer dessert featuring sweet, cinnamon-spiced peach filling encased in flaky, golden pie crust. Easy to make with refrigerated or homemade pie dough, these individual hand pies are ideal for sharing or enjoying as a portable treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups peeled and diced fresh peaches
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Crust & Topping
- 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix peach filling: In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and diced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the peaches evenly, creating a flavorful filling.
- Prepare pie crusts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crust sheets if needed, then use a 4 to 5-inch round cutter to cut out circles which will serve as the bases for your hand pies.
- Assemble pies: Spoon about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of peach filling into the center of each dough circle. Brush the edges with beaten egg to help seal, then fold the dough over into a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal completely.
- Prepare for baking: Arrange the hand pies on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with more beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish, sprinkle with coarse sugar if using, and cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pies turn a lovely golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool and serve: Let the hand pies cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to enjoy warm. These can be served as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Notes
- If fresh peaches are unavailable, substitute with thawed and drained frozen peaches or canned peaches that have been drained and patted dry.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla or almond extract to the peach filling before assembling the pies.
