Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

All it takes is 30 minutes to prepare these Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with their flaky crust and citrus glaze! These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal events. Their unique combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These hand pies come together in just 30 minutes, making them an easy choice for dessert.
• Flaky Crust: The refrigerated pie crust offers a perfectly flaky texture without the fuss of making dough from scratch.
• Versatile Filling: You can customize the filling by adding more fruits or spices to suit your taste.
• Fun to Make: Involve the kids in shaping and sealing the pies, turning dessert into a fun family activity.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, party, or weekday treat, these hand pies fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious recipe for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies, gather your tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience and perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for baking, ensuring your hand pies cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Biscuit cutter: Helps create perfectly round pie circles for uniform shape and size.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly, especially when preparing the glaze.

Ingredients

For the Pie 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

• Dump the blueberry pie filling into a shallow bowl.
• Add the zest of one lemon and mix until well blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Cut Pie Circles

• Unroll both pie crusts on a clean surface.
• Use a 4-inch biscuit cutter to cut out six circles from each crust. You may need to re-roll scraps to obtain all six circles.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

• Using a 1 tablespoon scoop, drop blueberry pie filling into the center of each pie crust circle.
• Brush edges with egg yolk.
• Fold each circle in half and pinch the edges securely. Fold pinched edges over again and press with a fork’s tines to seal completely.
• Poke each hand pie once with a fork to avoid bursting during baking.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Glaze

While your pies are baking:
– Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
– Once baked, remove hand pies from the baking sheet while warm and drop them into the glaze, coating fully. Using two forks helps flip them gently in glaze before placing back on parchment paper to set for about five minutes. ENJOY!

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

These delightful Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies make for a perfect dessert or snack. Their sweet and tangy flavor pairs well with various accompaniments.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the tartness of the lemon.

Alongside Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serving these hand pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Paired with Fresh Berries

• Add a side of mixed fresh berries for a refreshing touch, enhancing the fruity notes of the hand pies.

With Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these hand pies with a cup of tea or coffee, adding warmth and depth to your dessert experience.

How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

To ensure your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies turn out just right, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your pie crusts come to room temperature before using them. This makes them easier to roll out and fill.

• Don’t Overfill: Use just enough blueberry filling to avoid overflow during baking. A tablespoon per pie works best.

• Seal Properly: Make sure to pinch the edges tightly and use a fork to create a good seal. This prevents any filling from leaking out while baking.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the pies as they bake. They should turn golden brown, which usually takes about 15 minutes.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

These Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies can be complemented with some delightful side dishes that enhance their flavor profile.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Pairing with Greek yogurt and granola offers a creamy texture and a crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the soft hand pies.

2. Lemonade
   A glass of freshly squeezed lemonade provides an extra citrus kick, making it an ideal drink to accompany your dessert.

3. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad can add freshness and balance, featuring seasonal fruits that harmonize with the blueberry flavor.

4. Cheese Board
   A small cheese board with mild cheeses like brie or mascarpone can elevate your dessert experience by adding savory notes.

5. Chilled Herbal Tea
   Opt for a refreshing herbal tea served cold, which complements the lemony flavor without overpowering it.

6. Chocolate Dipping Sauce
   A simple chocolate dipping sauce can add an indulgent touch, appealing to those who enjoy richer desserts alongside fruity ones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat to ensure your hand pies cook evenly and achieve that golden brown color.

• Overfilling the Pies: Adding too much filling can cause spills. Stick to about one tablespoon of filling in the center to keep your hand pies intact during baking.

• Ignoring the Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash on top will result in pale hand pies. Brush each pie with egg white for a beautiful, shiny finish.

• Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the edges can lead to bursting pies. Pinch the edges firmly and use a fork to create a tight seal.

• Using Cold Pie Crust: Cold pie crusts can crack and break when you try to shape them. Let them sit at room temperature before cutting and filling.

• Neglecting Glazing Time: Allowing the glaze to set is essential for flavor. Don’t rush this step; let them sit for about five minutes after glazing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of pie filling?

Yes! You can use fresh blueberries combined with sugar and lemon zest as your filling. Cook them down slightly before using.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

To thicken your glaze, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I prepare these pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the hand pies and freeze them before baking. Just bake when you’re ready!

What should I serve with Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies?

These hand pies pair well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Are Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies easy to customize?

Yes! Feel free to add other fruits or spices like cinnamon for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are not only simple to make but also perfect for any occasion. The balance of sweet blueberry and zesty lemon makes them irresistible. You can easily customize this recipe by incorporating different fruits or adding spices, making it versatile enough for any taste preference. Give it a try!