These Peach Hand Pies combine a buttery, flaky crust with a sweet, juicy peach filling that’s just irresistible. The simplicity of the dish allows the fresh peaches to truly shine, with the warmth of the spices adding depth and richness.
Perfect for a summer picnic or a cozy dessert after dinner, these hand pies are both portable and indulgent. They’re an easy way to enjoy a classic peach dessert, with the added bonus of being handheld. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon granulated sugar
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
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1/4 cup cold water
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3 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 egg (for egg wash)
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
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Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Gradually add cold water, stirring until the dough starts to come together.
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Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, combine diced peaches, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well mixed.
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Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles about 4 inches in diameter.
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Spoon a small amount of the peach filling onto the center of each circle.
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Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal.
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Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Why You’ll Love These Peach Hand Pies
There are so many reasons to love peach hand pies. First, they are incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite spices, fruits, or even add a little extra sweetness with a glaze or icing on top. These pies are also incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional pies that require a large pan and extra steps, peach hand pies are handheld and portable, perfect for an on-the-go dessert.
Moreover, these little pies are the perfect way to showcase the flavors of fresh peaches. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, they highlight the natural sweetness of the fruit, enhanced by a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. The contrast between the tender peach filling and the crispy, buttery crust is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
The Perfect Summer Dessert
When summer rolls around, peaches are in full season, and there’s no better time to incorporate them into your baking. These hand pies are a fantastic way to use fresh, juicy peaches, but you can also make them with frozen peaches if you’re craving them outside of peach season. The golden, flaky crust is complemented by the juicy filling inside, making it an ideal summer dessert.
What makes these hand pies particularly special is their ability to adapt to different occasions. They’re small enough to be enjoyed as a single serving but large enough to make a satisfying treat. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue or packing them in your lunchbox for a sweet snack, these pies will be a crowd-pleaser.
Baking Tips for the Best Peach Hand Pies
While peach hand pies are easy to make, there are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. First, be sure to use cold butter when making the dough. This helps create a flaky texture that’s essential for a delicious crust. If you’re short on time, you can even use a store-bought pie crust, but nothing beats the taste and texture of homemade dough.
Another key tip is to ensure that the peach filling isn’t too wet. Peaches release a lot of moisture as they cook, which can make the pies soggy. To prevent this, make sure to toss the diced peaches with sugar and spices and let them sit for a few minutes. This allows the sugar to draw out the excess moisture, which you can then drain away before filling the dough.
Lastly, don’t forget the egg wash! Brushing the top of the pies with a beaten egg gives them a beautiful golden finish that looks just as good as it tastes.
The Best Crust for Peach Hand Pies
The crust is one of the most important aspects of any hand pie. For peach hand pies, a buttery, flaky crust is a must. You want the dough to be crisp and golden on the outside while still soft and tender inside. This texture is achieved by using cold butter and working it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. Instead, handle it as little as possible to keep it light and flaky.
If you’re looking for an extra special touch, you can sprinkle sugar on top of the crust before baking to give it a sweet, crunchy finish. This little step takes the pies to the next level, making them not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Customizing Your Peach Hand Pies
One of the best things about peach hand pies is that they are highly customizable. You can swap out the peaches for other fruits like berries, apples, or even a combination of fruits. For example, a peach and blueberry combo would add a burst of color and flavor to the pies.
Spices are another way to personalize these hand pies. While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic choices, you could also experiment with a pinch of ginger, allspice, or even a dash of vanilla extract. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor these hand pies to your taste preferences.
For an extra layer of sweetness, consider drizzling the baked pies with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk or cream. This will give the pies a glossy finish and add an extra touch of indulgence.
How to Serve Peach Hand Pies
Peach hand pies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of accompaniments to elevate the experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a great choice, as the cool, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced peach filling. You can also pair the hand pies with whipped cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese for a rich, indulgent treat.
If you’re serving them for breakfast, try pairing them with a hot cup of coffee or tea. These hand pies are not only a great dessert but also a delightful addition to a brunch spread. They can be served with a fruit salad or alongside other pastries, creating a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.
Storing and Freezing Peach Hand Pies
If you happen to have leftovers, storing peach hand pies is easy. Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and the crust is crispy again.
Peach hand pies also freeze wonderfully, making them a great make-ahead option. To freeze them, bake the pies as directed, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the crust is golden brown.
Conclusion
Peach hand pies are a delicious and versatile dessert that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen peaches, these hand pies offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will make any occasion special. The buttery, flaky crust is the perfect vessel for the sweet, spiced peach filling, and the best part is that they’re portable, making them perfect for parties, picnics, or even an afternoon snack. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your peach hand pies turn out perfectly every time.
From customizing the flavors to pairing them with your favorite toppings, peach hand pies are an easy and fun way to celebrate summer. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these hand pies are sure to impress your family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, grab some fresh peaches, and enjoy this delightful dessert that’s as beautiful as it is tasty!