Servings
16

Method

  1. In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse until well mixed.

  2. Add butter to the mixture and pulse until it resembles coarse cornmeal. Make sure there are no big pieces of butter remaining.

  3. While the food processor is running, slowly pour in 1/2 cup of ice water through the feed tube. Pulse until the dough just begins to come together.

  4. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a ball. Flatten the balls into disks and wrap them tightly in plastic. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. If desired, the dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and kept chilled. Let it stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before rolling out.

  5. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest and juice, tapioca, and the scraped seeds from a vanilla bean. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to accumulate. Then, cook over medium heat until the mixture simmers and thickens, about 5-6 minutes. Some cranberries will burst. Let the filling cool completely. It can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

  6. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

  7. Working with one disk of dough at a time, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is very thin, about 1/16-inch thick.

  8. Use a cookie

About this recipe

Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful dessert? Look no further than cranberry hand pies! These little pockets of goodness are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, cranberry hand pies are sure to satisfy. Let's dive into the world of cranberry hand pies and discover why they are truly a dessert worth indulging in.

The Sweetness of Cranberries

Imagine biting into a hand pie and being greeted by a burst of tangy and sweet cranberries. The natural tartness of cranberries perfectly balances out the sweetness of the pie crust, creating a harmonious flavor profile. It's like a symphony of flavors dancing on your palate.

The Perfect Ratio

Creating the perfect cranberry filling is an art. It's all about finding the right balance of sweetness and tartness. Too much sugar, and the cranberries lose their natural tang. Too little sugar, and the pies become overwhelmingly tart. But when you strike that perfect ratio, every bite is a delightful experience.

A Bite-Sized Delight

One of the best things about cranberry hand pies is their convenient size. These little treats are like miniature presents waiting to be unwrapped. They fit perfectly in the palm of your hand, making them the ideal dessert for on-the-go enjoyment. Plus, their small size means you can indulge in more than one without feeling guilty.

The Versatility of Hand Pies

Hand pies are incredibly versatile. While cranberry hand pies are a classic option, you can experiment with different fillings to suit your preferences. From apple and cinnamon to blueberry and lemon, the possibilities are endless. You can even get creative with the pie crust, adding spices or herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

A Homemade Delight

There's something special about homemade hand pies. From the moment you start rolling out the pie crust to the final sprinkle of powdered sugar, every step is filled with love and care. Baking these little wonders from scratch allows you to customize the flavors and create a truly unique dessert.

A Festive Treat

Cranberries are often associated with the holiday season, making cranberry hand pies a festive treat. Serve them at your Thanksgiving dinner or give them as gifts during the festive season. Their vibrant red color adds a touch of cheer to any occasion.

In Conclusion

Cranberry hand pies are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberries with a flaky and buttery crust. These bite-sized treats are versatile, festive, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying them on the go or serving them at a holiday gathering, cranberry hand pies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not indulge in a little pocket of happiness today?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen cranberries for the filling?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them before using.

Can I make the pie crust in advance?

Yes, you can make the pie crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I add other fruits to the cranberry filling?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different fruit combinations. Adding some diced apples or pears can complement the cranberries beautifully.

How do I prevent the hand pies from becoming soggy?

To prevent soggy hand pies, make sure to brush the pie crust with an egg wash before baking. This creates a protective barrier and helps the crust maintain its crispness.

Can I freeze the hand pies for later?

Absolutely! Once baked, you can freeze the hand pies in an airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them before enjoying.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust if you're short on time. However, making the pie crust from scratch adds a homemade touch and allows you to control the flavors more effectively.

Can I make mini hand pies instead of regular-sized ones?

Absolutely! You can use a smaller cookie cutter or simply cut the dough into smaller circles to create mini hand pies. They are perfect for bite-sized indulgence.

Can I serve the hand pies with ice cream?

Absolutely! Serving the warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. It's a match made in dessert heaven.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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