Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

All it takes is 30 minutes to prepare these Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with their flaky crust and citrus glaze! Perfect for parties, picnics, or a sweet treat at home, these hand pies are bursting with flavor. The combination of juicy blueberries and zesty lemon creates a delightful balance that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these delicious hand pies in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of blueberry pie filling and fresh lemon zest gives these hand pies an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Treats: Perfect for any occasion — serve them at parties, family gatherings, or enjoy them as a snack.
• Fun to Make: Get the kids involved! Shaping the pies can be a fun activity for the whole family.
• Portable Desserts: These hand pies are easy to take on-the-go, making them great for picnics or road trips.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Biscuit cutter (4-inch)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the pie crust evenly for perfect hand pies.
• Biscuit cutter: Ensures uniform circles for each pie, making them look professional and appealing.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze after baking.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 boxes refrigerated pie crust (14.1 oz each)

For the Filling

• 1 can blueberry pie filling (21 oz)
• 1 lemon (zested)

For the Glaze

• 1 egg (separated)
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Remove the pie crusts from their package and let them come to room temperature while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

• In a shallow bowl, dump the blueberry pie filling.
• Add in the lemon zest.
• Mix until well blended and set aside.

Step 3: Cut Out Pie Circles

• Unroll the pie crusts onto a clean surface.
• Using a 4-inch biscuit cutter, cut out 6 circles from each crust. You may need to re-roll any scraps to get all 6 circles.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pies

• Using a 1 Tablespoon scoop, place blueberry pie filling into the center of each circle.
• Brush the edges with egg yolk.
• Fold each circle in half and pinch the edges tightly.
• Fold over the pinched edges and press with a fork to seal completely.
• Poke one hole in each hand pie with a fork to prevent bursting during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

• Beat the egg white in a small bowl until frothy.
• Brush this egg white over the tops of each hand pie.
• Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Step 6: Glaze Your Pies

While your hand pies are baking:
– In another bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Once baked:
– Remove cooked pies from the baking sheet while they are warm and drop them into the glaze, coating thoroughly.
– Use two forks to flip them gently in the glaze before placing back on parchment paper. Let them set for about 5 minutes before enjoying!

Servings: 24 hand pies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts per serving: Calories: 67 kcal, Carbs: 14 g, Fat: 1 g, Sodium: 20 mg, Sugar: 11 g

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging on a cozy afternoon, these hand pies are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic choice that adds creamy richness to the tangy lemon flavor.
• Lemon sorbet: For a refreshing and zesty contrast, lemon sorbet enhances the citrus notes of the pies.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Mixed berries: A colorful medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries complements the hand pies beautifully.
• Sliced kiwi: The bright green color and sweet-tart flavor of kiwi add an exotic touch to your dessert table.

Add a Drizzle

• Extra lemon glaze: For those who love citrus, drizzling more lemon glaze over the hand pies elevates their flavor.
• Chocolate sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle can provide a delicious contrast to the fruity filling.

Enjoy with Beverages

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs well for a soothing experience.
• Sparkling water with lemon: The fizz and freshness make it an ideal companion for these hand pies.

How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Perfecting your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies takes just a few simple tips. Implementing these suggestions will ensure your hand pies are flaky, flavorful, and visually appealing.

• Chill the dough: Keeping your pie crust chilled before baking helps achieve that flaky texture you desire.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh blueberries or homemade filling can enhance flavor compared to canned options.
• Seal edges well: Ensuring that the edges are sealed properly prevents the filling from leaking during baking.
• Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can provide additional warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Complementing your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping adds sweetness and creaminess, balancing out the tartness of the pies.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light counterpoint to the richness of the hand pies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries makes for a healthy side that pairs beautifully with dessert.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a savory contrast to sweet flavors.
5. Nut Mix: A crunchy blend of almonds, walnuts, and pistachios adds texture and nuttiness alongside your sweet treats.
6. Mini Muffins: Light blueberry or lemon muffins can echo the flavors in your hand pies while providing variety on the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies can be simple, but some common mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to make sure your hand pies turn out great every time.

• Skipping the lemon zest: Not adding lemon zest reduces the flavor. Always include it for that bright citrus taste.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause spills. Use only 1 tablespoon of filling per pie to ensure they seal properly.
• Ignoring crust temperature: Using cold pie crust can lead to tough pies. Let the crust sit at room temperature for a bit before cutting and filling.
• Not sealing edges well: A poor seal can result in leaks during baking. Pinch the edges firmly and use a fork to create a tight seal.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Oven temperatures vary; ensure yours is preheated correctly. Bake at 425°F for best results.
• Skipping glazing: The glaze enhances both flavor and appearance. Don’t forget this final touch for an irresistible finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat each pie on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies that may help enhance your baking experience.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh blueberries! Combine them with sugar and lemon juice for added sweetness and flavor.

How do I prevent my hand pies from bursting?

Be sure to poke holes in the top of each pie with a fork. This allows steam to escape without causing them to burst during baking.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can substitute lemon juice with other fruit juices like lime or orange juice, though the flavor will change slightly.

How can I customize my Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies?

Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporate other fruits such as raspberries or blackberries into the filling!

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crust ahead of time, then assemble and bake them when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a dessert or snack, they offer endless customization options. Try different fillings or glazes to make this recipe your own!