As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of strawberries wafted through the air, evoking memories of sun-soaked summer days. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up a batch of my beloved Strawberry Jam Hand Pies. These delightful homemade pastries boast a buttery, flaky crust cradling a vibrant, sweet filling that captures the heart of anyone lucky enough to take a bite. Not only are they quick to prepare, making them perfect for a spontaneous dessert fix, but they also bring a touch of warmth to any gathering as a charming centerpiece. Whether you’re looking for a simple indulgence to accompany your afternoon tea or a sweet treat to impress your guests, these hand pies are sure to satisfy your cravings. Curious about how to bring a little sweetness into your life with these easy-to-make pastries? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love These Hand Pies
Quick and Easy: These Strawberry Jam Hand Pies are a breeze to make, even for novice bakers! The simple steps allow you to whip them up in no time, perfect for those unexpected cravings.
Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to experiment! Use your favorite jam flavors like raspberry or apricot for a new twist. They’re also delightful with a scoop of ice cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Comfort in Every Bite: You can’t help but love the combination of the buttery, flaky crust with the gooey, sweet filling. Each bite delivers that warm, cozy feeling reminiscent of home.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a charming dessert for your next gathering, these hand pies are sure to impress. They look as good as they taste!
Storage-Friendly: Leftovers (if there are any!) can be easily stored at room temperature or frozen, just like the popular Salted Caramel Apple recipe. Enjoy them whenever the mood strikes!
Strawberry Jam Hand Pie Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the crust; can substitute with a gluten-free blend.
• Unsalted butter – Ensures a rich, flaky texture; keep it cold for the best results.
• Sugar – Adds that perfect touch of sweetness to the dough; brown sugar works for a deeper flavor.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; there’s no substitute needed, just use fine salt for even mixing.
• Cold water – Binds the dough together; ensure it’s ice-cold for optimal flakiness.
For the Filling
• Strawberry jam – The star of the show, delivering fruity sweetness; both store-bought or homemade work wonders.
For Optional Egg Wash
• Egg – Creates a beautiful golden finish when brushed on top before baking; whisk it with a splash of water for an even coat.
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be ready to create your irresistible Strawberry Jam Hand Pies!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Strawberry Jam Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt, whisking together until well mixed. Next, take the cold unsalted butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough for the best result.
Step 2: Chill
Once your dough is formed, shape it into a disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial, as it helps the butter firm up again, which will contribute to that buttery, flaky texture in your Strawberry Jam Hand Pies.
Step 3: Roll Out
After chilling, take the dough out of the refrigerator and place it on a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out to approximately 1/8-inch thickness. Keep the surface and rolling pin lightly floured to prevent sticking. You’re aiming for even thickness to ensure that all hand pies bake evenly.
Step 4: Cut and Assemble
Using a round or square cutter, cut out shapes from the rolled-out dough. Aim for about 3 inches in diameter for perfect hand pies. On half of the pieces, place 1-2 teaspoons of strawberry jam in the center, being careful to keep the edges clear. Moisten the edges with a little cold water, then top with the remaining dough pieces, sealing them by crimping the edges with a fork.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and arrange the assembled Strawberry Jam Hand Pies on the sheet, leaving space between them. For a golden finish, brush the tops with an egg wash made by whisking an egg with a splash of water. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the pies are golden brown and beautifully puffed.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the filling set slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful contrast of the flaky crust and sweet strawberry filling that makes these hand pies irresistible!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Jam Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: To enjoy your Strawberry Jam Hand Pies later, freeze them for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container and separate layers with parchment paper.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes until warmed through and the crust is slightly crispy.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Jam Hand Pies are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling it out and assembling the pies. This not only enhances the flavor but also allows for quick assembly when you’re ready to bake. Feel free to fill and assemble the hand pies ahead of time and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to avoid drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and pop them in, achieving that flaky, golden crust with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Strawberry Jam Hand Pies
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Chill for Flakiness: Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes. This is crucial for achieving that perfectly flaky texture in your Strawberry Jam Hand Pies.
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Watch the Filling: Avoid overfilling with jam! Use just 1-2 teaspoons to prevent spills while baking, ensuring your pastries stay beautifully intact.
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Perfectly Golden: For an irresistible golden finish, don’t skip the egg wash. A mixture of whisked egg and water brushed on top elevates the visual appeal and adds richness.
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Uniform Thickness: Roll out your dough to an even 1/8-inch thickness for consistent baking. Uneven pieces may result in some being undercooked or overcooked.
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Keep it Cold: Using cold butter is key! It melts into the dough during baking, creating those fabulous flaky layers, so avoid warming it up before mixing.
What to Serve with Strawberry Jam Hand Pies
Indulging in these delightful pastries creates a warm, inviting moment perfect for pairing with a few sweet and savory companions.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream complements the flaky crust and fruity filling, creating a heavenly treat.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful contrast to the warm hand pies.
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Fresh Berries: A fresh berry medley offers a burst of tartness and vibrant color, enhancing the strawberry flavors while adding a pleasing crunch.
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Coffee or Tea: The rich warmth of freshly brewed coffee or a soothing cup of tea creates the perfect atmosphere to enjoy these hand pies during afternoon breaks.
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Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar elevates the presentation and provides an extra hint of sweetness to each bite.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this rich sauce adds a sweet, salty depth to the pies, making every bite a flavor explosion. Plus, the gooey texture is a delightful contrast to the crisp crust.
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Cheese Platter: Mild cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone balance out the sweetness, while their creamy textures provide a delicious contrast to the crunchy outside.
These delightful pairings ensure that your Strawberry Jam Hand Pies shine as the centerpiece of an unforgettable dessert spread!
Strawberry Jam Hand Pie Variations
Feel free to elevate your Strawberry Jam Hand Pies with these delightful twists that will enhance flavor and add a personal touch.
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Different Jam Varieties: Swap strawberry jam for other fruit preserves like apricot, blueberry, or even peach. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and tartness, making these hand pies a canvas for your favorite flavors!
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Spice It Up: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an aromatic twist. This warm spice not only enhances the taste but also evokes a comforting, cozy vibe.
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Creamy Delight: Incorporate cream cheese into your filling for a richer taste. Mix equal parts of jam and softened cream cheese to achieve a luxurious, creamy filling that complements the buttery crust beautifully.
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Nutty Flavor: Infuse some finely chopped nuts, such as hazelnuts or almonds, into your dough for an added crunch. This texture twist can take your hand pies to the next level while also offering a delightful nutty flavor.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a surprise treat. The sweet chocolate paired with fruity jam creates a luscious contrast that will surely be a hit!
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Heat Things Up: If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling. The heat balances perfectly with the sweetness of the jam, giving a surprising twist to the traditional hand pie.
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Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that all your other ingredients, like jam and sugar, are gluten-free to maintain that fluffy texture.
These variations will invite creativity into your kitchen and could be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent experience, similar to how delightful it is to enjoy a slice of Salted Honey Pie as a sweet treat for any occasion. Give them a try and discover your favorite version!
Strawberry Jam Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe strawberries for the filling?
Absolutely! Choose strawberries that are bright red and fragrant, with no dark spots or mold. You want them to be firm yet slightly soft to the touch, indicating sweetness. If you’re opting for store-bought strawberry jam, look for brands that use real fruit and have no artificial additives for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover hand pies?
Leftover Strawberry Jam Hand Pies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to preserve them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they remain sealed to prevent drying out. I often recommend adding a slice of bread to the container; it can help keep the crust from getting too hard!
Can I freeze the hand pies? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your hand pies! To do this, allow them to cool completely after baking, then place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my crust is too tough or chewy?
If you find your crust is tough, it may be due to overworking the dough. Remember to mix just until combined and avoid excessive kneading. Also, ensure your butter is cold, as this helps create that flaky texture. If you want to rescue a tough batch, consider rolling it out again with a sprinkle of flour between each layer for a better top layer, but be cautious not to overdo it!
Can I use other fruit jams for variations on these hand pies?
Very much so! These hand pies are wonderfully versatile. Try using raspberry, blueberry, or apricot jams for exciting flavor variations. Just keep the quantities the same, about 1-2 teaspoons per pie. You can also mix in a bit of finely chopped fruit with the jam for extra texture and freshness!
Are these hand pies suitable for people with food allergies?
If you are making these for someone with allergies, you can easily adapt the recipe. Use gluten-free flour for those who are gluten intolerant and ensure that the jam you choose is free from allergens like nuts or artificial additives. Just be mindful to check all ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination or hidden allergens!
Maple Crème Custard with Salted Hazelnut Caramel Sauce Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt, whisking together until well mixed.
- Cut cold unsalted butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water and mix until a cohesive dough forms.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll the chilled dough out to approximately 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut out shapes from the rolled-out dough, place 1-2 teaspoons of strawberry jam in the center, moisten edges with cold water, and seal.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), line a baking sheet with parchment, arrange pies on sheet, brush with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let the pies cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes, then serve warm or at room temperature.
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