Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

All it takes is 30 minutes to prepare these Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with their flaky crust and citrus glaze! These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply enjoying a sweet snack. With a combination of juicy blueberry filling and zesty lemon, these hand pies offer a unique flavor that stands out. Their easy preparation makes them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have these delicious treats ready in no time.
• Flaky Crust: The refrigerated pie crust creates a perfectly flaky texture that complements the sweet filling.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of blueberry and lemon makes these hand pies a refreshing dessert option suitable for any season.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 24 hand pies, making it ideal for parties, picnics, or family gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the fun shape and sweet taste, making them a great addition to lunchboxes or after-school snacks.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather your tools before starting. Having everything ready will streamline the process so you can focus on creating your delicious Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Biscuit cutter (4-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out the pie crust for consistent baking.
• Biscuit cutter: Helps create perfectly shaped circles for your hand pies, making them uniform in size.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess while keeping everything organized.

Ingredients

All it takes is 30 minutes to prepare these Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with their flaky crust and citrus glaze!

For the Crust and Filling:

• 2 boxes refrigerated pie crust (14.1 oz each)
• 1 can blueberry pie filling (21 oz)
• 1 lemon (zested)

For the Glaze:

• 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 the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Dump pie filling in a shallow bowl and add lemon zest. Mix until blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Cut the Circles

Unroll pie crusts and cut 6 circles from each crust using a 4-inch biscuit cutter. You may have to re-roll the scraps to get the sixth circle.

Step 4: Assemble 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: Bake the Hand Pies

Beat egg white in a small bowl until frothy. Brush over the tops of each hand pie. Bake on a 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 powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Remove cooked pies from baking sheet and drop (while warm) into glaze, coating completely. Use two forks to flip them in the glaze and remove 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 versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you serve them at a party or as an afternoon snack, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each hand pie for a creamy contrast to the tart lemon and sweet blueberry filling.

Alongside Ice Cream

• Serve warm Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla or lemon ice cream for a refreshing treat that balances flavors perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Create a dessert platter with assorted fruits, nuts, and your hand pies. This makes for an appealing presentation at gatherings.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• For an elegant touch, lightly dust the tops of your hand pies with powdered sugar just before serving to make them look even more inviting.

Pairing with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these hand pies with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The citrus notes complement the beverages beautifully for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

To ensure your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use chilled pie crust: Make sure your pie crust is chilled before using it. This helps achieve a flaky texture when baked.
• Seal edges well: Pinch the edges tightly and use a fork to seal them properly. This prevents any filling from leaking during baking.
• Avoid overfilling: Use just the right amount of blueberry filling; too much can cause the pies to burst open while baking.
• Test oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. An accurate temperature is crucial for achieving golden-brown crusts.
• Let them cool slightly: Allow the hand pies to cool for a few minutes after baking before glazing them. This will help maintain their shape.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to try different fruit fillings alongside blueberries for variety and fun flavors!

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Serving side dishes alongside your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy and crunchy side that adds nutrition.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the hand pies perfectly.

3. Lemonade
   A glass of homemade lemonade brings out the citrus flavor in the hand pies, enhancing their taste.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness and make for an interesting contrast.

5. Vanilla Custard
   Serve warm vanilla custard as a dipping sauce or drizzle over the hand pies for added richness.

6. Chilled Mint Tea
   Refreshing mint tea pairs well with desserts, offering a cool sip that cleanses the palate after each bite.

7. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzle chocolate sauce over your hand pies for those who enjoy an indulgent chocolate twist alongside fruity desserts.

8. Coconut Macaroons
   These sweet treats can add texture and flavor variety when served next to your hand pies, making dessert time even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Not letting the crust come to room temperature: Using cold pie crust can make it difficult to roll out and shape. Allowing the crust to warm up ensures a flaky texture.
• Overfilling the pies: Too much filling can cause the pies to burst during baking. Use just enough filling to cover the center without overflowing.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash helps achieve a beautiful golden color on your hand pies. Always brush the tops before baking for that perfect finish.
• Using a dull cutter: A dull biscuit cutter can squish the dough rather than cut it cleanly. Ensure your cutter is sharp to maintain a good shape and rise.
• Not sealing edges properly: If the edges aren’t sealed well, filling may leak out while baking. Pinch edges firmly and use a fork for added security.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one pie at a time on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies?

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are delicious pastries filled with blueberry pie filling and fresh lemon zest, all encased in a flaky crust.

How do I know when my Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are done?

Look for a golden-brown color on top and ensure they feel firm when gently pressed.

Can I customize the filling of my hand pies?

Yes! You can substitute blueberry filling with other fruits like cherries or apples while keeping the lemon zest for flavor.

How long do Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies last?

When stored properly, they last up to 3 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Their flaky texture combined with sweet blueberries and tangy lemon will surely impress. Feel free to customize them with different fruits or add spices like cinnamon for an extra twist!