Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

About Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Blueberry lemon hand pies are the epitome of summer desserts, marrying the tangy brightness of lemon with the sweet juiciness of blueberries. With their flaky, golden pastry and luscious filling, these handheld delights offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The tartness of the lemon cuts through the sweetness of the blueberries, creating a refreshing treat that is perfect for any occasion. From casual family gatherings to sophisticated summer parties, these hand pies are versatile enough to impress any guest. They can also function as quick desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth on the go, making them the ultimate convenience food.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Complete Ingredients List

1. For the Dough:

   • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
   • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
   • 6 tablespoons ice water

2. For the Filling:

   • 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
   • Zest of 1 lemon
   • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
   • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
   • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

3. For Assembly:

   • 1 egg (for egg wash)
   • 1 tablespoon milk
   • Extra sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you’re looking to customize this recipe to accommodate dietary needs or preferences, here are some substitution ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter or a non-dairy margarine in place of unsalted butter.
• Sugar-Free: Swap granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia, keeping in mind that some brands may affect the flavor.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth, or include diced apples or raspberries for added fruitiness.

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the blueberries, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Gently mix until the blueberries are evenly coated. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. You should have about 8-10 circles from one disc.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place a heaping tablespoon of the blueberry filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and seal the edges by pressing down with a fork or your fingers. Repeat with the second disc of dough.

Step 5: Bake
Place the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Beat the egg with milk and brush the mixture over the top of each pie. Sprinkle a little sugar on top for an added crunch. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Blueberry lemon hand pies are best served warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine through in every bite. For a delightful presentation, consider cutting them in half to reveal the vibrant filling or serving them whole on a platter. A dusting of powdered sugar or a small dollop of whipped cream can further enhance their appearance and flavor.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

To elevate the experience, these hand pies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lemon curd on the side. A fresh fruit salad or mint sprigs make for a refreshing accompaniment. For an extra special touch, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top right before serving.

Storing & Preserving Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Best Storage Methods

To maintain the quality of your blueberry lemon hand pies, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for around a week. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To reheat, simply place the hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Microwaving can create a soggy crust, so it’s best to avoid that method if possible.

Tips for Perfect Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overworking the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible. Overmixing can result in tough pastry.
2. Incorrect Filling Amount: Overfilling the pies can lead to leaking during baking, so stick to recommended amounts.
3. Not Chilling the Dough: Refrigerating the dough ensures better texture, making it easier to roll and handle.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• Cool Your Filling: Let the blueberry mixture cool before filling to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
• Use a Silpat Mat: If you have a silicone baking mat, it can help prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
• Chill the Assembled Pies: If you have time, chill the assembled hand pies again before baking for an even flakier crust.

Fun Variations of Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Try incorporating crushed nuts such as almonds or walnuts for added crunch. You might also experiment with herb infusions such as basil or mint—both of which pair wonderfully with blueberries. For a decadent twist, consider adding a small square of dark chocolate inside each pie.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

For a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg wash with an almond milk wash. A sugar-free version can also be achieved by using a suitable sweetener, while maintaining the balance of flavors with a splash of lemon juice and zest.

FAQs

What If My Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your hand pies turn out too dry, consider adjusting the amount of cornstarch in the filling or slightly reducing the baking time. A filling that leaks can be due to overfilling or if the blueberries were too juicy—try draining excess liquid next time. For a soggy crust, ensure that you use cold ingredients and that the dough is well-chilled.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and the filling a day in advance. Simply store them separately in the fridge and assemble them just before you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the hand pies and freeze them before baking—this can be a great option for unexpected guests!

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

For those unable to find certain ingredients, here are some swaps: Instead of fresh blueberries, you can use other berries such as blackberries or peaches. If you don’t have lemons, you might try using limes for a different citrus flavor.

By following this guide, every bite of your blueberry lemon hand pies will be a sweet reminder of summer, making each occasion and gathering just a little bit brighter. Enjoy the flaky pastry filled with a burst of fresh flavor, brought together with love and creativity in your kitchen!

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