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 parties, picnics, or even as a simple dessert at home. The combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, the hand-held format makes them convenient for sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy fresh hand pies without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet blueberry filling combined with zesty lemon brings a refreshing taste that is sure to please anyone.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for various occasions like birthday parties, brunches, or as an afternoon snack. They can easily fit into any gathering.
• Easy to Make: The recipe uses refrigerated pie crusts, making it beginner-friendly while still delivering delicious results.
• Perfectly Portable: These hand pies are easy to take on-the-go, making them an excellent choice for picnics or lunchboxes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out pie crusts evenly, ensuring a perfect shape.
• Biscuit cutter: Helps create uniform circles for the hand pies, which ensures even baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface to bake your hand pies without them sticking or losing shape.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier after baking.

Ingredients

All it takes is 30 minutes to prepare these Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies with their flaky crust and citrus glaze!

For the Hand Pies

• 2 boxes refrigerated pie crust (14.1 oz each)
• 1 can blueberry pie filling (21 oz)
• 1 lemon (zested)
• 1 egg (separated)

For the Glaze

• 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 and add the lemon zest. Mix until blended and set aside.

Step 3: Cut the Pie Crusts

Unroll the pie crusts on a clean surface. Use a 4-inch biscuit cutter to cut out 6 circles from each crust. You may need to re-roll scraps to get the sixth circle.

Step 4: Fill the Hand Pies

Using a tablespoon scoop, place blueberry pie filling in the center of each pie crust circle. Brush the edges with egg yolk. Fold each circle in half and pinch edges completely closed. Fold over pinched edges and press with fork tines to seal. Poke each hand pie once with a fork to prevent bursting.

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

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

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While your pies are baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Once cooked, remove pies from baking sheet while warm and dip them into the glaze for full coverage. Use two forks to flip them gently in the glaze before returning them to parchment paper. Allow them to set for about five minutes before enjoying!

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are deliciously versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these hand pies will impress everyone.

As a Dessert Treat

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert pairing.
• Drizzle extra lemon glaze on top for added sweetness and flavor.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries to enhance the fruity experience.
• Add a side of sliced citrus fruits for a refreshing contrast.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy with your favorite herbal tea for a calming afternoon snack.
• Pair with coffee to balance the sweetness and elevate your morning routine.

At Celebrations

• Serve as part of a dessert table at parties or potlucks for an eye-catching treat.
• Offer them alongside other pastries for a delightful brunch spread.

How to Perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Making the perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they come out just right.

• Chill the Crusts: Keep your pie crusts chilled before use. This helps achieve that flaky texture.
• Adjust Filling Quantity: Avoid overfilling each circle to prevent bursting during baking. One tablespoon is usually perfect.
• Seal Edges Well: Make sure to pinch the edges tightly. A secure seal keeps the filling inside while baking.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Bake Until Golden Brown: Keep an eye on the pies as they bake. They should be golden brown, which indicates they’re perfectly cooked.
• Cool Before Glazing: Let the pies cool slightly before dipping them in glaze. This helps it stick better.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies can enhance their delightful flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy, tangy yogurt complements the sweetness of the hand pies perfectly.
2. Mint Salad: A light mint salad adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the pies.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with warm hand pies.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated touch to your dessert table.
5. Fruit Compote: Serve with a spoonful of mixed berry compote to amplify fruity notes and add moisture.
6. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages such as lemonade or iced tea provide a perfect drink pairing after indulging in these sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect treat.

• Not using room temperature crust: Ensure the pie crust is at room temperature before rolling it out. This makes it easier to work with and ensures even baking.
• Overfilling the pies: Use only 1 tablespoon of filling per pie. Overfilling can cause them to burst during baking, leading to a mess.
• Skipping the egg wash: Brushing the tops with egg white not only helps achieve a golden color but also adds a nice sheen. Don’t skip this step!
• Inadequate sealing: Properly pinch and seal the edges of each hand pie. If not sealed well, the filling may leak out during cooking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Let the hand pies cool slightly before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting away and ensures better adhesion.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked hand pies in an airtight container.
• They can be kept for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Wrap each cooled hand pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds at a time until hot. Be cautious as they may become soggy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies that may help you.

How do I make my Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies extra flaky?

Using cold butter or margarine in your pie crust recipe can enhance flakiness. Additionally, don’t overwork the dough.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of pie filling?

Yes! You can use fresh blueberries mixed with sugar and lemon juice as an alternative to canned pie filling for more natural flavor.

What if I don’t have lemon juice?

You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice or even apple cider vinegar for a different zing in your Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies.

How long do Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies last?

These hand pies can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months if frozen properly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. Just bake them when you’re ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies are a delightful treat that’s both easy and versatile. They make for an excellent dessert or snack option anytime. Feel free to customize them by adding other flavors or fruits like raspberries or peaches for more variety. Enjoy creating these tasty handheld delights!