### Easy Cranberry Hand Pies for Any Occasion
You know that moment when the leaves start to turn, the air gets a little crisp, and the scent of holiday spices wafts through your home? That’s the time when cranberries start calling out, begging to be transformed into something simply blissful. Imagine warm, flaky pastries filled with a vibrant, tangy cranberry filling, each bite exuding warmth and comfort. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a winter gathering, or you simply want to infuse your afternoon with something delicious, these easy cranberry hand pies are the perfect treat to whip up.
In this article, I’ll guide you through creating these delightful hand pies filled with a sweet yet tart cranberry filling, encased in a buttery crust. By the end, you’ll understand not only how to make these delectable desserts but also how to tailor them for any occasion.
### What is Easy Cranberry Hand Pies?
Cranberry hand pies are essentially individual pastries filled with a rich and flavorful stuffing made predominantly from fresh or cooked cranberries. Originating from various cultures that enjoy pocket-like pastries — think of the empanadas from Latin America or the calzones from Italy — these hand pies encapsulate the essence of autumn and winter with their vibrant filling.
When you bite into these golden-brown goodies, the flaky, buttery crust crumbles in a welcoming embrace, revealing a luscious, sweet-tart filling that dances on your palate. They not only gratify your sweet tooth but also deliver that nostalgic flavor of holidays spent with family. They’re versatile, too; served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or cold alongside a cup of coffee or tea, these hand pies are sure to become a cherished favorite.
### Why You’ll Love This Easy Cranberry Hand Pie Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to adore this easy cranberry hand pie recipe! For starters, they are incredibly versatile. Want to switch things up? You can easily incorporate other fruits, like apples or cherries, or even introduce spices like ginger and cinnamon for an extra cozy flavor. These little gems are also an absolute breeze to make – perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, taking minimal effort for maximum impact.
Are you mindful of your time? Then you’ll appreciate that these pies take just around 30 minutes to prepare, with another 20 to bake. Not to mention, they’re utterly delightful to serve at gatherings, adding a homemade touch that impresses guests and family alike. You can even make them ahead of time; they freeze beautifully! These traits — simplicity, flavor, and adaptability — make this cranberry hand pie recipe a standout.
### Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a rundown of the ingredients you’ll need to create these scrumptious cranberry hand pies:
1. **Fresh Cranberries (2 cups)**: The star of the show! Fresh cranberries give that tartness that balances perfectly with sugar.
2. **Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup)**: Adds sweetness. You can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
3. **Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon)**: Brightens the filling and enhances the cranberry flavor.
4. **Cornstarch (2 tablespoons)**: Helps thicken the cranberry filling.
5. **Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon)**: Adds warmth and pairs beautifully with cranberries.
6. **Butter (1 cup, cold)**: Essential for a flaky crust; ensures that the dough is rich and tender.
7. **All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups)**: Forms the base of your pie crust.
8. **Salt (1/2 teaspoon)**: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
9. **Ice Water (about 1/4 cup)**: Helps bring the dough together without warming it up.
10. **Egg (1, for egg wash)**: Gives the pies that beautiful, golden sheen.
### How to Make Easy Cranberry Hand Pies
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the steps of making these cranberry hand pies!
#### Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the **fresh cranberries**, **sugar**, **lemon juice**, **cornstarch**, and **cinnamon**. Stir gently to coat the cranberries.
2. Over medium heat, cook the mixture for about 8–10 minutes. You’ll want to stir it occasionally, and as the cranberries start to burst, it will create a vibrant sauce. Once it thickens, remove it from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes while you prepare the dough.
#### Step 2: Make the Pie Crust
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **sugar**, and **salt**. Ensure these are well integrated; it makes a difference for the texture.
4. Cut the **cold butter** into small pieces and add them to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s okay to have some butter chunks – they lend to flakiness!
5. Gradually add the **ice water**, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork it — a light touch is key. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Spoon a generous tablespoon of the cranberry filling into the center of each circle, leaving a border.
9. Take the edges of the dough and fold them over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with your fingers to seal, and then crimp them with a fork for a pretty finish.
#### Step 4: Bake the Hand Pies
10. Whisk together the **egg** and a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush this on the tops of the hand pies to give them their golden hue.
11. Cut small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
12. Bake the hand pies in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown and your kitchen is filled with the irresistible aroma of baking pastries.
#### Step 5: Cool and Serve
13. Once out of the oven, allow the pies to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will not only make them easier to handle but will also let the filling settle a bit.
### Tips, Tricks & Variations
1. **Chill the dough:** A chilled dough bakes better, so be patient and refrigerate it well!
2. **Experiment with fillings:** Don’t limit yourself to cranberries. Consider swapping in apples, cherries, or even a pumpkin filling for a delightful twist.
3. **Glazing options:** Instead of an egg wash, try brushing the tops with milk for a dairy-free option or sprinkle with coarse sugar for a crunchy finish.
4. **Making ahead:** You can assemble the hand pies and store them, unbaked, in the freezer. Just pop them into the oven when you’re ready for a treat!
5. **Serving ideas:** Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
### What to Serve With Easy Cranberry Hand Pies
These cranberry hand pies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with complementary items can elevate your dining experience:
– **Vanilla Ice Cream**: The creamy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the tart filling.
– **Chai Tea**: The warming spices in chai enhance the flavors of the cranberry.
– **Cheese Board**: Experiment with creamy brie or sharp cheddar, as both balance the tartness of the hand pies.
– **Coffee or Hot Chocolate**: A cozy drink to bring out the warming spices is necessary for those chilly evenings.
### Nutrition & Health Benefits
Each cranberry hand pie is a delightful combination of carbohydrates and sugars, making it a lovely treat. Depending on your ingredients, they generally yield about 190 calories per pie. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, providing health benefits that can enhance your immune system. They also contribute fiber, aiding digestion. For information about the nutritional benefits of cranberries, check out [Healthline’s article](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/health-benefits-of-cranberries).
### Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use frozen cranberries?**
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the sugar based on how sweet you want your filling, as frozen ones can be more tart.
**2. How do I store leftovers?**
To keep your hand pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, consider freezing them.
**3. Can these hand pies be made gluten-free?**
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour, ensuring it contains a binding agent.
**4. How long do they last in the freezer?**
These hand pies can last for up to 3 months in the freezer if they are properly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container.
**5. What is the best way to reheat these hand pies?**
For the best results, reheat your hand pies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will preserve the flakiness of the crust.
### Conclusion
With their fragrant aroma and delightful flavor, easy cranberry hand pies are bound to become a staple recipe in your kitchen. Their sweetness and warmth encapsulate the essence of fall and winter, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Imagine gathering family and friends, sharing these special pastries while relishing laughter, stories, and memories.
So why not take a moment out of your day to make these lovelies? If you loved this recipe, I encourage you to leave a comment or tag me on Instagram with your pie-making adventures. I’d love to see how your kitchen brings these warm bites to life! Happy baking!
