Introduction to Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies
There’s something magical about baking, especially when it comes to creating delightful treats like Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies. These little gems are not just adorable; they’re a quick solution for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet surprise for your family, these hand pies are sure to bring smiles. Plus, who can resist the charm of heart-shaped desserts? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies
These Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together in no time, making them perfect for busy moms and professionals. The sweet cherry filling wrapped in flaky crust is a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, their charming shape adds a personal touch, making them ideal for sharing love on any occasion!
Ingredients for Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Refrigerated pie crusts: These save time and effort, giving you a flaky base without the fuss of making dough from scratch.
- Cherry pie filling: The star of the show! This sweet and tangy filling brings a burst of flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Egg (for egg wash): A simple egg wash gives your hand pies a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish. It’s the secret to that bakery-style look!
- Sugar (for sprinkling): A sprinkle of sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and a delightful crunch. It’s like the cherry on top, but for your crust!
For those who want to get creative, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the cherry filling for a unique twist. You can also make these hand pies ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just pull them out when you need a quick dessert!
Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is crucial for baking these Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies. It ensures that the crust cooks evenly and becomes beautifully golden. A hot oven is like a warm hug for your pies, helping them rise and crisp up perfectly!
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crusts
Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes. You’ll need two hearts for each hand pie. If you don’t have a cookie cutter, a knife works just as well! Just be sure to keep the shapes even.
Step 3: Fill the Heart Shapes
Take half of your heart shapes and place a spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of each. Be careful not to overfill, or they might burst open while baking. A little filling goes a long way in creating that sweet surprise!
Step 4: Seal the Pies
Top each filled heart with the remaining heart shapes. Press the edges together gently, then use a fork to seal them tightly. This step is essential to keep the delicious cherry filling from escaping during baking. Plus, it adds a cute design!
Step 5: Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle
Brush the tops of your hand pies with the egg wash. This gives them a lovely golden color. After that, sprinkle a little sugar on top for a sweet crunch. It’s like giving your pies a little sparkle before they head into the oven!
Step 6: Bake the Hand Pies
Place your hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end; every oven is a little different, and you want them just right!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the hand pies cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This step is important! If you bite into them too soon, the filling will be hot enough to surprise you. After cooling, they’re ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean edges when cutting the pie crusts.
- Chill the pie crusts for a few minutes before rolling out; it makes them easier to handle.
- Experiment with different fillings like apple or blueberry for variety.
- Don’t skip the egg wash; it’s key for that golden finish!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works perfectly. If you don’t have one, a large oven-safe dish can do the trick.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking. If you’re out, greasing the baking sheet lightly will suffice.
- Cookie cutter: A heart-shaped cutter is ideal, but a knife can also create heart shapes.
- Fork: Essential for sealing the edges. A spoon can work in a pinch!
Variations
- Almond Cherry Hand Pies: Add a splash of almond extract to the cherry filling for a delightful twist that enhances the flavor.
- Mixed Berry Hand Pies: Swap out the cherry filling for a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a colorful and fruity alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crusts to make these hand pies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Version: Replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk wash and use a vegan pie crust for a delicious dairy-free treat.
- Chocolate Cherry Hand Pies: Add a few chocolate chips to the cherry filling for a decadent chocolate-cherry combination that’s hard to resist!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh cherries on top for an elegant touch.
- For a festive presentation, arrange them on a heart-shaped platter.
- Enjoy with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
FAQs about Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! If you have fresh cherries, you can make your own filling. Just pit and chop them, then cook with a bit of sugar and cornstarch until thickened. It’s a delicious way to elevate your Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies!
How do I store leftover hand pies?
Store any leftover Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them before baking!
Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the hand pies and freeze them before baking. Just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a great way to have a quick dessert ready!
What can I serve with these hand pies?
These Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies pair wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They’re perfect for any occasion!
Are there any dietary modifications I can make?
Definitely! You can make gluten-free versions using gluten-free pie crusts. For a vegan option, simply replace the egg wash with plant-based milk and use a vegan pie crust. Enjoy the flexibility!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies is more than just baking; it’s about sharing love and joy with those around you. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will bring smiles and warm hearts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating your family, these hand pies are sure to impress. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even the busiest of moms can whip them up in no time. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the sweet moments that come with every bite of these charming treats!
Print
Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies That Wow Your Taste Buds!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini hand pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious mini heart-shaped cherry hand pies that are perfect for any occasion, especially for Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 can of cherry pie filling
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crusts and cut them into heart shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Place a spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of half of the heart shapes.
- Top with the remaining heart shapes and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- For a twist, add a bit of almond extract to the cherry filling.
- These can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Mini Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies, Cherry Hand Pies, Valentine's Day Desserts



