These easy peach hand pies are like little pockets of summer! Filled with sweet, juicy peaches and a hint of cinnamon, they’re perfect for any warm day.
Making these hand pies is a breeze! I love to serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—talk about a sweet summer dream! 🍑🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: I love using ripe, juicy peaches for these hand pies. If they’re not in season, canned peaches in light syrup work well too. Just be sure to drain them and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
Granulated Sugar: For sweetness, regular sugar is perfect. If you’re looking for a healthier swap, consider using honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity since they are sweeter than sugar.
Cornstarch: This ingredient thickens the peach filling. You can substitute it with all-purpose flour if that’s what you have on hand, using about 1 1/2 tablespoons instead of one tablespoon.
Pie Crust: Store-bought pie crust saves time. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, make your own crust! A buttery homemade recipe will give your hand pies a personal touch.
Egg Wash: The egg wash gives a lovely golden finish. If you’re keeping it vegan, use a mix of non-dairy milk and a bit of oil instead.
How Do I Ensure My Hand Pies Have a Flaky Crust?
A flaky crust is key to delicious hand pies! Here are some helpful tips:
- Keep your pie crust chilled before working with it. If it’s warm, it can become tough.
- Do not overwork the dough. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Don’t skip the egg wash! It helps achieve that beautiful color and a nice shine.
Following these steps will help you achieve a delightful, flaky crust that pairs perfectly with the sweet peach filling! Enjoy baking!
Easy Peach Hand Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (about 2-3 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. Including a little chill time after baking for drizzling the glaze, plan for around 40-50 minutes total. It’s a quick and delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips from the pies.
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, toss together the diced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the peaches and let them sit for a moment while you prepare the crusts. This helps the juices mix nicely.
3. Prepare the Pie Dough:
Take the refrigerated pie crusts out of the package and roll them out on a floured surface. Use a 4-5 inch round cutter or a small bowl to cut circles from the dough, making as many as you can. Gather any scraps and reroll to make more circles until you’ve used up the dough.
4. Fill the Dough Circles:
Place about 2 tablespoons of the peach filling in the center of each dough circle, making sure not to overfill them. You want to leave about half an inch around the edges clear to seal.
5. Assemble the Hand Pies:
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice touch and to ensure they stay closed while baking.
6. Egg Wash for a Lovely Finish:
In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water to make an egg wash. Brush this mixture lightly over the tops of the hand pies to give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
7. Baking Time:
Place the hand pies on your lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the crusts are golden brown and flaky.
8. Prepare the Glaze:
While the pies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl to make a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency with more milk or sugar if needed.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the hand pies to cool slightly on a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the warm pies and let it set for a few moments.
10. Enjoy!
Serve the peach hand pies warm or at room temperature. They’re delightful on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing summer treat!
Enjoy your delicious, flaky peach hand pies!
FAQ for Easy Peach Hand Pies
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen peaches can be a convenient substitute. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling. This will prevent the pies from becoming soggy!
How Can I Make These Hand Pies Vegan?
To make the hand pies vegan, use a plant-based pie crust and replace the egg wash with a mixture of non-dairy milk and a teaspoon of oil for a similar shine. The glaze can also be made with vegan substitutes!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quick heating option.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach filling up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be sure to stir it again before using to redistribute the juices and ingredients!
