Name: Blueberry Hand Pies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 115 min
Ingredients: 2 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour (240g); 3/4 teaspoon table salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold, 227g); 1/2 cup sour cream (cold, 113g); 2 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen); 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or 1 tablespoon Instant Clearjel (14g)); 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g); 1/8 teaspoon table salt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (14g); 1 large egg (beaten); 2 tablespoons coarse sparkling sugar (for garnish, 25g)

Introduction to Blueberry Hand Pies

Why Blueberry Hand Pies are a Must-Try for Young Professionals

Are you a young professional juggling meetings, deadlines, and social gatherings? If so, blueberry hand pies are the perfect treat to incorporate into your busy lifestyle! These delightful pastries are not only portable and easy to eat on the go, but they also offer a burst of flavor and a touch of nostalgia.

Imagine biting into a flaky crust filled with juicy, sweet blueberries—it's like holding a little piece of summer in your hand! Not only do they satisfy those afternoon cravings, but they can also serve as a quick dessert for unexpected guests or a convenient snack for your mid-morning coffee break. Plus, the best part? You can make them ahead of time and freeze them for later, so you always have a delicious treat ready to go.

Incorporating fruits like blueberries into your diet has added health benefits too. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, they can boost your immunity and keep your energy levels up—something every busy professional needs!

So, whether you're enjoying them solo at your desk or sharing them with friends at a picnic, blueberry hand pies are a delightful way to elevate your snack game. Want to impress friends or coworkers? Keep reading for the full recipe and watch these pastries become your new go-to!

Ingredients for Blueberry Hand Pies

Baking delicious blueberry hand pies requires a few key ingredients that come together beautifully to create a flaky crust and a sweet, flavorful filling. Here’s a breakdown to guide you through the ingredient list, making your prep as smooth as your pastry dough!

Pastry Ingredients

For the pastry, you’ll need:

2 cups (240g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
¾ teaspoon table salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
16 tablespoons (227g) unsalted butter, cold
½ cup (113g) sour cream, cold

These components are essential for achieving that perfect flaky texture in your pies.

Filling Ingredients

Creating a luscious filling is crucial for the flavor of your blueberry hand pies. Gather the following:

2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen
2 tablespoons (14g) cornstarch or 1 tablespoon (11g) Instant Clearjel*
⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
⅛ teaspoon table salt
1 tablespoon (14g) lemon juice

*If using frozen berries, opt for 2 ½ tablespoons cornstarch or 1 ½ tablespoons ClearJel to ensure the right consistency.

Topping Ingredients

To give your pies a beautiful finish, you’ll need:

1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons (25g) coarse sparkling sugar, for garnish

This simple touch adds both shine and crunch to your hand pies, making them irresistible. With all your ingredients at the ready, you're set to create delicious blueberry hand pies that are sure to impress!

Preparing Blueberry Hand Pies

Creating delightful blueberry hand pies can feel like a fun baking adventure! As you prepare, remember that these little treats are perfect for picnics, dessert, or even a midnight snack. Let’s stroll through each step together to ensure your hand pies turn out perfectly.

Make the pastry

The first step in your hand pie journey is making the buttery pastry. Start by whisking together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon baking powder in a large bowl. The key to a flaky crust is cold butter, so take 16 tablespoons of unsalted butter straight from the fridge. Cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with larger pea-sized pieces of butter still visible—this is what gives your pastry that flaky texture.

Then, gently mix in ½ cup of cold sour cream. This part can get a bit messy, but don't worry! Stir until the mixture begins to clump together. Turn it onto a floured surface and give it a few quick kneads to form a coherent dough. Shape this into a rough log—and this isn't a final shape, just a preparation step!

Prepare the filling

Now, let’s dive into the blueberry filling! In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of blueberries (fresh or frozen), 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, ⅛ teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. If you're using frozen berries, increase the cornstarch to 2 ½ tablespoons. The lemon juice not only brightens up the flavor but also perfectly complements the sweetness of the blueberries. Toss everything together until the blueberries are well coated.

Assemble the hand pies

Once the dough is chilled, roll it out into a large rectangle about ⅛ inch thick, and cut out 4- to 5-inch circles. Place a tablespoon of the blueberry mixture in the center of each circle. Remember, less is more! Overfilling can lead to a mess, and nobody likes a soggy bottom. Gently fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges with a fork or your fingers. This step truly is the heart of making those blueberry hand pies.

Bake to perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer your hand pies onto a lined baking sheet. Before baking, brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish and sprinkle with coarse sparkling sugar. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly.

Cool and enjoy

Once out of the oven, it's tempting to dig right in, but let your hand pies cool for about 10-15 minutes. This not only makes them safer to eat but allows the filling to set. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful burst of blueberry flavor paired perfectly with the flaky crust.

Now you’re all set to impress with your blueberry hand pies! These treats are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!

Variations on Blueberry Hand Pies

Mixed Berry Hand Pies

If you want to shake things up, try making mixed berry hand pies! Combine blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries for a colorful twist. The variety of flavors adds depth and makes each bite a mini adventure! Just match the sugar and cornstarch to the sweetness and juiciness of your mix to achieve the perfect filling.

For an unbeatable texture, check out this guide on berry ratios that helps you balance various fruits. Not only will you impress your friends at gatherings, but you'll also explore the delightful world of mixed berries in your hand pies!

Vegan Blueberry Hand Pies

If you’re looking for a vegan option without sacrificing taste, this is for you. To make delicious vegan blueberry hand pies, simply substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives, like coconut oil or vegan butter. And instead of sour cream, use unsweetened vegan yogurt or applesauce as your binding agent.

Don’t forget that you can also create a scrumptious glaze using a mix of powdered sugar and almond milk for a sweet finish. For more tips on vegan baking, visit Minimalist Baker’s baking resources. With these adaptations, you’ll have everybody reaching for seconds!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Blueberry Hand Pies

When crafting your blueberry hand pies, remember that the key to a flaky crust lies in the temperature of your ingredients. Keep that butter cold to achieve the perfect texture. If you decide to use frozen blueberries, increase the cornstarch slightly to offset their additional moisture, ensuring a thick and luscious filling.

After filling each pastry, gently press out excess air before sealing to prevent any bursting during baking. Also, don’t skip the egg wash topped with coarse sparkling sugar; it gives your pies a beautiful shine and a delightful crunch. Need more tips? Check out King Arthur Baking for expert advice and techniques!

Happy baking!

Serving suggestions for Blueberry Hand Pies

Pairing with Beverages

When it comes to enjoying blueberry hand pies, the right beverage can elevate your experience. Consider serving them with:

Herbal teas: A calming chamomile or fragrant mint can enhance the natural sweetness of the berries.
Café au lait: The creaminess of coffee with steamed milk wonderfully complements the flaky pastry.
Sparkling water with citrus: A refreshing option that balances the richness of the hand pies perfectly.

Serving as a Dessert or Snack

These delightful blueberry hand pies are versatile, making them an excellent choice for any time of the day. Serve them for:

Dessert at dinner: Warm them slightly and dust with powdered sugar for a delightful ending.
Afternoon snacks: Pair them with yogurt for a satisfying midday treat.
Picnics or brunch: Their portable nature makes them perfect for sharing outdoors or at a cozy brunch.

No matter how you serve them, these tasty treats are sure to impress!

Time Breakdown for Blueberry Hand Pies

Planning ahead is essential when making these delightful blueberry hand pies. Here’s how the time adds up to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Preparation Time

Get everything ready in about 30 minutes. This includes making your pastry from scratch and preparing the blueberry filling. It’s faster than a coffee run, and the result is worth every second spent!

Baking Time

Once your pies are assembled and ready to go, they’ll take around 25 minutes to bake. Just enough time to clean up your kitchen or whip up a quick salad for dinner!

Total Time

In total, you’ll need approximately 55 minutes from start to finish. Imagine serving these warm, sweet hand pies to family or friends, and you’ll see how quickly that time flies!

For full instructions on crafting these delicious treats, explore the complete recipe above. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Blueberry Hand Pies

When indulging in homemade blueberry hand pies, it's always a good idea to consider their nutritional content. Here's a quick breakdown to keep you informed:

Calories

Each hand pie contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the size and how much sugar you add to the filling. It's a delightful treat that won't derail your daily goals if enjoyed in moderation.

Sugars

With about 10-15 grams of sugar per pie, these hand-held delights strike a balance between sweetness and flavor. You can adjust the sweetness by modifying the granulated sugar in the filling.

Fiber

Packed with about 2 grams of fiber, blueberry hand pies offer a slight boost to your daily intake. The blueberries not only bring vibrant flavor but also contribute to your overall wellness.

If you're looking for healthier tips or want to explore the benefits of fiber-rich fruits, feel free to check out resources like the American Heart Association for more insights.

FAQs about Blueberry Hand Pies

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Absolutely! Using frozen blueberries can actually simplify your baking process. Just remember to adjust your cornstarch to 2 ½ tablespoons or 1 ½ tablespoons of Instant Clearjel. This will help maintain the right texture and thickness in your filling. Plus, frozen blueberries are picked at their peak ripeness, so they'll be delicious in your blueberry hand pies!

How do I store leftover hand pies?

To keep your blueberry hand pies fresh, let them cool completely before storage. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. They should last about 3-4 days at room temperature. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating!

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep your blueberry hand pies in advance! You can make the dough and filling a day ahead, storing them separately in the fridge. Alternatively, you can assemble the pies and freeze them before baking. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings!

Conclusion on Blueberry Hand Pies

Indulging in blueberry hand pies is a delightful way to savor sweet, homemade treats with minimal fuss. These easy-to-make pies are perfect for any occasion — from casual get-togethers to cozy nights in. Give this recipe a try; you'll love the burst of flavor in every bite!