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Cherry Hand Pies

 


Cherry hand pies are a delightful treat, perfect for a snack or dessert. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:

Cherry Hand Pies

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)

For the Cherry Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For Assembly:

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Make the Dough:

    • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
    • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • In a small bowl, whisk the egg and add it to the flour mixture. Mix until combined.
    • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. It should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
    • Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Cherry Filling:

    • In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using).
    • Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture starts to thicken and bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
    • Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
  3. Assemble the Hand Pies:

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
    • Cut the dough into 4-inch squares or circles using a cookie cutter or a knife.
    • Place a small spoonful of cherry filling in the center of each dough piece.
    • Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a half-circle. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
    • Place the hand pies on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with a little sugar if desired.
  4. Bake the Hand Pies:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
    • Allow the hand pies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your homemade cherry hand pies!

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