Strawberry hand pies are a delightful, portable dessert filled with a sweet, juicy strawberry filling and wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. These mini pies are perfect for summer picnics, holiday gatherings, or as a quick homemade treat. Unlike full-sized pies, hand pies are easy to make, mess-free, and can be enjoyed without utensils.

One of the best things about homemade hand pies is the ability to customize them. You can make them with fresh or frozen strawberries, add extra flavors like vanilla or lemon, and even choose between baking or frying them. They also work great with different fillings, such as apple, blueberry, or even chocolate-hazelnut.

The history of hand pies dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures. Similar to traditional turnovers, they are small, individual-sized pastries that can be enjoyed on the go. If you want to understand more about the origins of pies, check out this article on the history of pies.

Unlike store-bought versions that often contain preservatives, homemade hand pies allow you to control the ingredients and create a healthier, fresher version. If you’re interested in learning more about how to achieve the perfect flaky texture, read about shortcrust pastry techniques.

Now, let’s dive into why these easy strawberry hand pies are a must-try! 🍓🥧

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to fall in love with these strawberry hand pies. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this easy recipe guarantees a delicious outcome every time. Here’s why these little pies are so special:

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

You don’t need any fancy ingredients to make these pies—just fresh or frozen strawberries, butter, flour, sugar, and a few pantry staples. The combination of a buttery, flaky crust and a sweet, juicy filling creates an irresistible treat.

If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. These spices add warmth and depth, making your hand pies taste like mini gourmet pastries.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

These hand pies are ideal for:

• Summer picnics – No need for plates or forks!
• Holiday desserts – A great alternative to traditional pies.
• Lunchbox treats – A fun, homemade snack for kids.
• Bake sales & parties – Eye-catching and easy to grab.

Unlike full-sized pies that require slicing and serving, hand pies are convenient, portioned desserts that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere.

3. Customizable & Versatile

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to adapt and customize. Try different fruit fillings like:

• Blueberry, raspberry, or mixed berry for a tart twist.
• Peach or apple cinnamon for a cozy, fall-inspired flavor.
• Chocolate or Nutella for a rich, indulgent treat.

For more ideas, check out these creative hand pie variations.

4. Baked or Fried – You Choose!

One of the biggest debates when making hand pies is whether to bake or fry them. Baked hand pies have a crispy, golden crust, while fried hand pies are extra flaky and rich. If you’re curious about the differences, check out this guide on baked vs. fried pies.

No matter how you prepare them, these easy strawberry hand pies are sure to become a favorite in your home! 🍓🥧

Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions

Understanding each ingredient’s role is essential for making the best strawberry hand pies. Below is a breakdown of the ingredients used in the filling, dough, and assembly, along with possible substitutions to suit different dietary needs or preferences.

For the Filling

The strawberry filling is the heart of these hand pies. It should be sweet, thick, and slightly tangy for the best flavor balance.

• Strawberries (1 ½ cups, diced) – Fresh strawberries work best, but frozen ones can be used too. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking. For more on the health benefits of strawberries, check out this resource.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – This sweetens the filling, but you can adjust it based on your preference.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – A natural thickener that prevents a runny filling. Learn more about how cornstarch works as a thickener here.
• Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon) – Adds a slight tartness, enhancing the strawberry flavor.
• Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon) – Gives the filling a deeper, richer taste.

Substitutions:

• Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch for a gluten-free thickener.
• Swap lemon juice with orange juice for a citrusy twist.

For the Dough

A good pie dough should be flaky, buttery, and easy to work with. The secret is keeping the butter cold and not overworking the dough.

• All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups) – The base of the dough. For a gluten-free option, use 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Granulated Sugar (1 tablespoon) – Adds slight sweetness to complement the filling.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the dough’s flavor.
• Cold Unsalted Butter (1 cup, cubed) – Cold butter creates a flaky texture by forming pockets of air as it bakes. Learn more about achieving flaky pastry textures here.
• Ice Water (½ cup) – Helps bring the dough together without making it too sticky.

Substitutions:

• Swap butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Use whole wheat flour for a healthier, fiber-rich crust.

For Assembly

• Egg Wash (1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk) – Creates a golden, shiny finish. Learn about the purpose of an egg wash in baking.
• Coarse Sugar (2 tablespoons) – Adds a delicious crunch on top.

Substitutions:

• For a vegan option, replace egg wash with coconut milk or almond milk mixed with maple syrup.

With these ingredient tips, you can easily adapt this hand pie recipe to fit your dietary needs. Next, let’s move on to making the perfect strawberry filling! 🍓🥧

Making the Perfect Strawberry Filling

The strawberry filling is what makes these hand pies burst with flavor. It should be thick, slightly sweet, and not too runny, so the pies don’t leak while baking. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect filling.

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

• Wash and hull 1 ½ cups of fresh strawberries.
• Dice them into small, even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
• If using frozen strawberries, thaw them first and drain excess liquid. Frozen berries contain more water, which can make the filling too runny.

Pro Tip: If you love learning about different types of strawberries, check out this guide on strawberries.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine:
✔ Diced strawberries
✔ ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
✔ 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
✔ 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for a slight tartness)
✔ ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)

Stir the mixture continuously for 5-7 minutes, until it starts to thicken. The heat activates the cornstarch, giving the filling a jam-like consistency. If it looks too thick, add a splash of water; if too runny, let it cook for another 1-2 minutes.

For more on how cornstarch thickens fruit fillings, read this article on cornstarch.

Step 3: Cool the Filling

Once the filling has thickened, remove it from heat and let it cool completely before using. This prevents the dough from becoming soft or soggy.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, spread the filling on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes to speed up cooling.

Step 4: Customize Your Filling

Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations:

• Berry Mix: Add blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a sweet-tart flavor.
• Spiced Twist: Stir in cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
• Jam Shortcut: Use store-bought strawberry jam if you’re in a hurry.

Looking for more filling ideas? Explore these creative hand pie recipes.

With the perfect strawberry filling ready, it’s time to move on to making the flaky pie dough! 🍓🥧

How to Make the Flaky Hand Pie Dough

A perfectly flaky pie dough is essential for crisp, golden hand pies. The key is to keep the butter cold and handle the dough as little as possible. Below is a step-by-step guide to achieving the best texture.

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
✔ 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for structure)
✔ 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
✔ ½ teaspoon salt (to enhance flavor)

For a healthier option, replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend.

Step 2: Cut in the Butter

• Add 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed to the dry ingredients.
• Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• There should still be pea-sized pieces of butter visible—this creates a flaky crust when baked.

Why cold butter? The butter melts while baking, creating air pockets that result in light, flaky layers. Learn more about shortcrust pastry and why temperature matters.

Step 3: Add Ice Water

• Gradually drizzle in ½ cup ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring with a fork.
• Stop adding water when the dough starts to come together but isn’t sticky.
• If the dough feels too dry, add 1 more tablespoon of ice water; if too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour.

Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing—the dough should hold together but still have visible butter pieces for flakiness.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

• Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Chilling allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and preventing shrinkage during baking.

Short on time? Freeze the dough for 15 minutes instead.

Now that your dough is ready, it’s time to assemble and bake the perfect strawberry hand pies! 🍓🥧

Assembling & Baking the Hand Pies

Once the strawberry filling has cooled and the pie dough is chilled, it’s time to assemble and bake these delicious homemade hand pies. Follow these steps for the best results.

Step 1: Roll Out the Dough

• Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out one dough disc to ⅛-inch thickness.
• Use a round cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into circles, rectangles, or half-moons.
• Repeat with the second dough disc to create the top crusts.

Pro Tip: For decorative edges, use a crimping tool or check out this guide on decorative pie crusts.

Step 2: Fill the Hand Pies

• Place half of the cut-out dough pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of cooled strawberry filling into the center, leaving a small border around the edges.

Avoid overfilling! Too much filling can cause leakage during baking.

Step 3: Seal the Pies

• Brush the edges with beaten egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp milk).
• Place another piece of dough on top and press the edges together.
• Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring a tight seal.

Learn more about why egg wash is important for baking here.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

• Brush the tops with more egg wash for a golden crust.
• Sprinkle with coarse sugar for a slight crunch.
• Use a small knife to cut a few ventilation slits to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and crisp.

Pro Tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about strawberry hand pies is their versatility. Whether you want to experiment with different fillings, change the crust, or try a fried version, there are endless ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste.

1. Different Fillings to Try

While strawberry filling is delicious, you can easily swap it for other flavors or create fruit combinations:

✔ Berry Mix – Combine blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries with strawberries for a sweet-tart filling.
✔ Apple-Cinnamon – Use diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon for a cozy fall-inspired treat.
✔ Peach or Mango – Perfect for a tropical twist, especially in summer.
✔ Nutella or Chocolate – Spread Nutella, peanut butter, or melted chocolate inside for a rich, indulgent filling.
✔ Lemon Curd or Jam – A tart, citrusy option using store-bought or homemade lemon curd.

For more inspiration, check out these creative hand pie ideas.

2. Baked vs. Fried Hand Pies

Should you bake or fry your hand pies? Both methods have their advantages:

Baked Hand Pies

✔ Lighter & Crispier – The dough gets golden brown without being greasy.
✔ Easier & Healthier – No need for deep frying, making it a lower-fat option.
✔ Less Mess – Just pop them in the oven and bake!

Fried Hand Pies

✔ Extra Flaky & Crispy – Frying creates an incredibly buttery, crunchy texture.
✔ Faster Cooking Time – They cook in 3-5 minutes compared to 20 minutes in the oven.
✔ Best When Fresh – Fried hand pies taste amazing right out of the oil.

If you’re unsure which method to try, learn more about the differences between baked vs. fried pies.

3. Glazed or Sugar-Dusted Toppings

Want to make your hand pies even more special? Try these finishing touches:

✔ Powdered Sugar Dusting – A simple way to add elegance.
✔ Cinnamon-Sugar Coating – Brush with butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet crunch.
✔ Simple Vanilla Glaze – Mix ½ cup powdered sugar, 1 tbsp milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract, then drizzle over cooled pies.

With so many ways to customize these hand pies, you can make a new version every time! Next, let’s talk about how to store and reheat them

Storing and Reheating Strawberry Hand Pies

Whether you want to make hand pies ahead of time or save leftovers for later, proper storage and reheating ensure they stay flaky and delicious. Here’s how to keep them fresh.

1. Storing Hand Pies

At Room Temperature (Up to 2 Days)

✔ Place cooled hand pies in an airtight container.
✔ Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
✔ If your kitchen is warm, it’s better to refrigerate them to prevent spoilage.

In the Refrigerator (Up to 5 Days)

✔ Store pies in a sealed container or ziplock bag.
✔ Place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture and prevent sogginess.

In the Freezer (Up to 3 Months)

✔ Arrange baked or unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
✔ Transfer to a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers.
✔ Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

2. Reheating Hand Pies

In the Oven (Best Method)

✔ Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
✔ Place hand pies on a baking sheet and heat for 8-10 minutes until warm.
✔ This method restores crispiness without drying them out.

In the Air Fryer (Quick & Crispy)

✔ Set air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
✔ Heat for 3-5 minutes until warm and crisp.

In the Microwave (Fastest Option)

✔ Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds.
✔ The crust may soften, so this method is best for quick reheating.

3. Can You Freeze Unbaked Hand Pies?

✔ Yes! Assemble the pies, but do not bake them.
✔ Freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
✔ When ready to bake, place directly in the oven and add 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.

Now that you know how to store and reheat hand pies, let’s go over some frequently asked questions! 🍓🥧

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about making strawberry hand pies.

1. Can I Make These Hand Pies Ahead of Time?

✔ Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator.
✔ You can also assemble the pies and keep them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust Instead of Homemade Dough?

✔ Absolutely! Pre-made pie dough or puff pastry is a great time-saver.
✔ If using puff pastry, roll it slightly thinner to prevent overly thick pies.
✔ For a flaky, buttery texture, homemade dough is still the best choice!

3. What If My Dough Is Too Dry or Too Sticky?

✔ If the dough feels dry and crumbly, add 1 teaspoon of ice water at a time, mixing gently.
✔ If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour while rolling it out.
✔ Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make it tough instead of flaky.

4. Why Is My Filling Leaking Out?

✔ The most common reason is overfilling the pies—stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling per pie.
✔ Ensure the edges are sealed tightly with a fork to prevent leaks.
✔ Cutting small slits on top helps steam escape and prevents bursting.

5. Can I Freeze Unbaked Hand Pies?

✔ Yes! Assemble the pies, place them on a parchment-lined tray, and freeze until solid.
✔ Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
✔ Bake straight from the freezer—just add 2-3 extra minutes to the baking time.

6. How Do I Make These Hand Pies Vegan?

✔ Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter in the dough.
✔ Swap the egg wash with almond milk or coconut milk mixed with maple syrup.
✔ Ensure the sugar and filling ingredients are free of animal products.

7. What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Hand Pies?

✔ Vanilla glaze – A drizzle of powdered sugar icing for extra sweetness.
✔ Chocolate sauce – Melted dark or milk chocolate for a rich dip.
✔ Whipped cream – Light and airy, perfect for a classic pairing.
✔ Strawberry coulis – A homemade strawberry syrup for even more fruity flavor.

With these helpful tips and solutions, you’ll be able to make perfect hand pies every time! Ready to start baking? 🍓🥧

Strawberry Hand Pies

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These homemade strawberry hand pies are packed with a sweet, juicy strawberry filling inside a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for summer treats, quick desserts, or party snacks, these mini pies are easy to make and customizable. Bake or fry them for your preferred texture, and enjoy them fresh or store them for later. Whether you use fresh or frozen strawberries, these irresistible hand pies will become a new favorite! 🍓🥧

• Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the filling:

• 1 ½ cups fresh strawberries, diced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ cup ice water

For assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut out circles or rectangles using a cookie cutter or a knife. Repeat with the second disc of dough.
6. Place half of the cut-out dough pieces onto the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a small amount of the cooled strawberry filling into the center of each piece, leaving a border around the edges.
7. Brush the edges with the beaten egg wash, then place another piece of dough on top. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
8. Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Use a small knife to cut a few small slits in the top for ventilation.
9. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

✔ Use Cold Butter for Flaky Dough – Keeping the butter cold ensures a light, crisp pastry. Work quickly and avoid overhandling the dough.

✔ Prevent a Runny Filling – Cook the strawberry filling until thickened, and let it cool completely before assembling the pies.

✔ Don’t Overfill – Stick to 1-2 tablespoons of filling per hand pie to prevent leaks.

✔ Seal Edges Properly – Use egg wash and a fork to crimp the edges tightly so the filling stays inside.

✔ Baking vs. Frying – Baking produces a light, crisp crust, while frying gives an extra-flaky, golden exterior. Choose based on preference!

✔ Freezer-Friendly – Store unbaked hand pies in the freezer and bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

✔ Experiment with Fillings – Try mixed berries, apple-cinnamon, Nutella, or lemon curd for different flavor variations.

Enjoy these easy homemade strawberry hand pies as a sweet snack, dessert, or party treat! 🍓✨