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, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a sweet snack at home. The combination of tart lemon and sweet blueberries creates a flavor profile that is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Plus, their portable nature makes them ideal for on-the-go enjoyment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy homemade pastries without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Fresh Flavor: The zesty lemon combined with blueberry filling brings a bright taste that elevates these hand pies.
• Versatile Treats: Perfect for dessert, snacks, or even breakfast on the go, these hand pies fit any time of day.
• Family-Friendly: Easy enough for kids to help make, this recipe can be a fun family activity leading to delicious results.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment by adding different fruits or spices according to your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies effortlessly, having the right tools will streamline the process. Gather these essential items before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures your pie crust is evenly rolled out for perfect thickness and texture.
• Biscuit cutter: Provides uniform circles for your hand pies, making them visually appealing and consistent in size.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for blending your ingredients efficiently without spills or messes.

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

• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Other Ingredients

• 1 egg (separated)

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Dump blueberry pie filling into a shallow bowl and add lemon zest. Mix until blended. Set aside.

Step 3: Cut Out Circles from Pie Crusts

Unroll pie crusts and cut 6 circles from each crust using a 4-inch biscuit cutter. You may have to re-roll the scraps to get the 6th circle.

Step 4: Fill and Seal 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 in half and pinch edges completely. Fold pinched edges over and press with the tines of a fork to seal. Poke each hand pie with a fork once to prevent bursting.

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

Beat egg white in a small bowl until frothy. Brush over the tops of each hand pie. Bake on a parchment paper lined baking sheet (1 inch apart) for about 15 minutes until browned.

Step 6: Glaze Your Pies

While pies are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Remove cooked pies from baking sheet and drop them (while warm) into glaze, coating them completely. Use two forks to flip them in the glaze carefully. Return to parchment paper and allow to set for about 5 minutes. ENJOY!

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

These delightful Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each hand pie with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an airy contrast to the fruit filling.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm hand pies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, zesty flavors.

Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the pies for a rich and indulgent touch that complements the blueberry and lemon.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also provide a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness of the pies.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of mixed fresh berries to enhance the fruity flavors and add visual appeal on the plate.

Lemon Zest Sprinkle

• For an extra zing, sprinkle some additional lemon zest over the top before serving. It brightens up the dish and enhances its citrus notes.

How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Perfecting your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies is all about paying attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to achieve delicious results every time.

• Chill the Dough: Ensure your pie crusts are cold before rolling them out. This helps create a flaky texture when baked.
• Evenly Portion Filling: Use a measuring spoon for consistent filling amounts. This ensures each hand pie bakes evenly.
• Seal Properly: Pinch edges tightly and use a fork to crimp, preventing leaks during baking.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven for even browning. Adjust baking time if necessary based on your oven’s performance.
• Glaze While Warm: Coating hand pies in glaze while they’re still warm allows it to soak in for maximum flavor.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add other fruits or spices like cinnamon for unique flavor combinations that still complement blueberries.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies enhances your dessert spread. Here are some fantastic options that go well with these tasty treats.

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the hand pies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the soft pies.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese which can offer a savory note to balance the sweet flavors.

4. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, making it perfect alongside sweet desserts.

5. Chilled Sweet Tea
   Serve with chilled sweet tea infused with lemon for a delightful beverage pairing that complements the flavors.

6. Nut Mix
   A simple bowl of roasted nuts adds crunchiness and saltiness, creating an enjoyable textural contrast with each bite of pie.

7. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats offer another layer of sweetness while being easy to prepare in advance.

8. Lemonade
   Homemade lemonade brings brightness and tangy flavor that echoes the lemon in your hand pies, making it a refreshing choice!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Overfilling the pies: Using too much filling can cause the hand pies to burst while baking. Stick to 1 tablespoon of filling for each pie.
• Skipping the egg wash: Not brushing the tops with egg white can lead to dull-looking pies. This step ensures a beautiful golden color.
• Neglecting to poke holes: Failing to poke the tops before baking can trap steam inside, causing them to explode. A simple fork poke helps prevent this.
• Using cold crusts: Starting with cold pie crusts makes them hard to work with. Let them come to room temperature first for easier handling.
• Not letting glaze set: Dipping the hot pies into glaze without letting them cool slightly can lead to a messy finish. Allow a few minutes for better coating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked pies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, but this may make the crust softer.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies:

What are Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies?

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are delicious pastries filled with sweet blueberry filling and zesty lemon flavor, all wrapped in a flaky crust.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes, fresh blueberries can be used! Combine them with sugar and lemon zest for a homemade filling.

How do I customize my Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or try different fruit fillings like raspberry or cherry for variety.

Why is my pie crust not flaky?

If your crust isn’t flaky, it may be overworked or not chilled properly. Handle it gently and ensure it stays cool before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies offer a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors wrapped in a flaky crust. Perfect as a dessert or snack, you can customize them with different fruits or glazes. Give this easy recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!