Introduction
Cherry Hand Pies, a delightful combination of flaky puff pastry and sweet cherries, offer an easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These little bites are not only visually appealing but also packed with the rich flavors of cherries, making them an irresistible treat to indulge in.
Tips for this recipe
To ensure your Cherry Hand Pies turn out perfectly flaky and full of cherry goodness, it’s crucial to handle the pastry with care. Keep all ingredients as cold as possible during preparation to prevent the butter in the puff pastry from melting too quickly.
Why you will love this recipe
The blend of tart cherries and sweet, rich puff pastry makes these Cherry Hand Pies a delightful dessert that’s both nostalgic and comforting. They can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for last-minute gatherings or as an indulgent treat during your lazy Sundays at home.
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups fresh cherries, stemmed and pitted, or about 12 ounces frozen pitted cherries, unthawed
– 2/3 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 14-ounce package all-butter puff pastry (preferably Dufour), thawed in refrigerator
– Flour (for dusting)
– 1 large egg white
– 1 1/2 teaspoon raw sugar
Adviced equipments
– Baking Sheet
– Pastry Cutter or Food Processor (for dough)
– Rolling Pin (optional, depending on the method used to flatten pastry)
– Cherry Pitter
– Mixing Bowls (2-3 for various stages of preparation)
– Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper (for rolling dough)
– Pie Dish with a removable bottom
– Whisk
– Measuring Cups and Spoons
– Kitchen Scale (optional, for precise measurements)
History of the recipe
Cherry Hand Pies have their roots in traditional American cooking, where fruits like cherries are abundantly used to create sweet treats. The concept of a hand pie has been around since medieval times when various fillings would be enclosed in a pastry crust. Over time, these pies evolved into the modern version we enjoy today with diverse ingredients and techniques that emphasize both flavor and presentation.
Fun facts about this recipe
Did you know? Cherry Hand Pies can be enjoyed at any time of the year, thanks to frozen cherries which are available throughout the seasons. Moreover, using all-butter puff pastry not only adds a luxurious texture but also elevates the taste, making these pies an indulgent treat worth savoring.
