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How to Make Homemade Peach Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
- Add Water: Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps to create a flakier crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling
- Cook the Peaches: In a medium saucepan, combine the diced peaches, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the peaches release their juices, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool the Filling: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the peach filling cool completely. This step helps prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, roll one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface into a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter.
- Add the Filling: Place about 1-2 tablespoons of peach filling in the center of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges together, sealing the pies tightly.
- Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
Step 4: Bake the Hand Pies
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Place the assembled hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky, and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool: Let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving. Be cautious, as the filling will be very hot!
Tips for the Perfect Peach Hand Pies
- Use Fresh, Ripe Peaches: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe peaches. If you can’t find fresh peaches, you can substitute frozen peaches (thaw and drain them before use).
- Add a Zesty Twist: For an extra burst of flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the filling or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice.
- Make Ahead: These hand pies can be made ahead of time. Assemble the pies, freeze them on the baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Serving Options: Serve the hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Why These Homemade Peach Hand Pies Are a Must-Try
Homemade Peach Hand Pies are the ultimate summer dessert. The sweet, juicy peach filling pairs perfectly with the buttery, flaky crust, and the individual size makes them ideal for sharing or packing up for a picnic. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or at room temperature, these little pies are a sure way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Perfect for a weekend baking project or a special occasion, these hand pies are a delicious way to capture the essence of peach season in every bite. Make a batch today, and your family and friends will be begging for more!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, golden crust filled with the sweet, aromatic flavor of peaches. With these Homemade Peach Hand Pies, you’ll have the perfect treat for any occasion—whether it’s a summer get-together, a picnic, or just a cozy night in. Try them today and experience the magic of homemade pies at their finest!
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