Cranberry Hand Pies: Indulge in a Flavorful Delight!

this RECIPE

Introduction to Cranberry Hand Pies

Welcome to the delightful world of Cranberry Hand Pies! As a busy mom, I get it—finding time to whip up something special can feel like a juggling act. These little treats are perfect for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without breaking a sweat. With their buttery, flaky crust and the sweet-tart cranberry filling, they offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re a fabulous way to sneak a little fruit into your family’s diet. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s sure to warm your heart!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Hand Pies

You’re going to absolutely adore these Cranberry Hand Pies for so many reasons! They’re quick to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Their flaky, buttery crust contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberry filling, making each bite a pure delight. Plus, they’re portable—perfect for busy days when you need a sweet pick-me-up during the chaos of work or school. Your family is going to ask for these again and again!

Ingredients for Cranberry Hand Pies

Let’s gather the magic ingredients for our delicious Cranberry Hand Pies. Each component plays a vital role in crafting these delightful treats! Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of our crust, giving it that perfect structure and flakiness.
• Baking powder: This little leavening agent helps our crust rise, ensuring it has that lovely, light texture.
• Salt: A pinch enhances the natural flavors, making each bite more delicious.
• Ground spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom): These warm spices add depth to the filling and complement the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
• Unsalted butter: Essential for that rich, buttery flavor and that coveted flaky crust.
• Granulated sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of the cranberries, keeping it just right.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses flavor, giving our filling a little extra depth.
• Orange zest: A delightful hint of citrus elevates the flavor profile, making it fresh and fruity.
• Eggs: They bind the ingredients, providing structure, and help achieve a golden crust.
• Vanilla extract: A classic addition that enhances the overall flavor—because who doesn’t love the aroma of vanilla?
• Orange extract (optional): For even more citrusy brightness if you want to really amp up that orange flavor.
• Full-fat sour cream: This adds moisture and richness, making the crust tender and delightful.
• Fresh or frozen cranberries: The star of our dish! These pops of tartness are the heart and soul of each hand pie. If you use frozen, there’s no need to thaw them.
• For the optional orange glaze: Confectioners’ sugar, fresh orange juice, and additional orange zest to create a sweet, tangy topping that’s simply irresistible.

For exact quantities, check the end of the article where you’ll find everything needed for a successful baking session, available for printing too!

How to Make Cranberry Hand Pies

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the delightful process of making these Cranberry Hand Pies! I promise you it’s easier than it sounds, and the end result is so rewarding. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

To start, we need to create that flaky pie crust everyone loves. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together. I like to use a whisk for this—it keeps everything light and airy. Now, cut in the cold unsalted butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This is key for flakiness! You can use a pastry cutter or your fingers; just don’t overwork it. Next, gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Once it’s ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the gluten relax, ensuring a tender crust that won’t shrink while baking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Now, let’s whip up the alluring filling that makes these Cranberry Hand Pies so special. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh or frozen cranberries with granulated sugar and your chosen spices—don’t skimp on the cinnamon and nutmeg; they complement the fruit perfectly. Stir until the cranberries start to burst and release their juices, about 5-7 minutes. You want a thick, jam-like consistency, so feel free to mash some of the berries with a fork if needed. Once it reaches that luscious texture, remove it from heat and let it cool. This filling packs a flavor punch and will marry beautifully with our crust!

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

It’s time to bring our hand pies to life! First, roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thick. Cut into even circles, roughly 4 inches in diameter. Place a generous spoonful of your cooled cranberry filling in the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill; we don’t want any leaks! Then, fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. To seal, press the edges together really well; you can use a fork to crimp them for added flair. Arrange the assembled pies on a lined baking sheet, giving them space to puff up and breathe while baking. The anticipation is building!

Step 4: Bake the Pies

It’s time for the magic to happen in the oven! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of your pies with an egg wash for a golden finish—just mix one egg with a splash of water. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overcooking. The aroma will fill your kitchen and soon enough, you’ll have golden Cranberry Hand Pies cooling on your counter. Let them cool slightly before digging in, as the filling will be super hot, and you don’t want to burn your mouth on all that deliciousness!

Tips for Success

• Use cold butter for a flaky crust—it’s a game changer!
• Chill your dough before rolling out to ensure it holds shape.
• Don’t skip the egg wash if you want that beautiful golden top.
• Keep a close eye on baking time; ovens vary!
• Allow the hand pies to cool before serving to avoid hot filling accidents.

Equipment Needed for Cranberry Hand Pies

• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing the dough and a smaller one for the filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to perfect pies!
• Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a smooth wine bottle works too.
• Pastry cutter or fork: Helpful for cutting butter into the flour.
• Baking sheet: Essential for baking your hand pies—parchment paper is a great non-stick alternative.

Variations on Cranberry Hand Pies

• Apple-Cranberry Hand Pies: Mix chopped apples with cranberries for a sweeter, fruitier filling. The combination is a classic fall favorite!
• Pumpkin Spice Cranberry Hand Pies: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to your filling for a seasonal twist that brings warmth to your dessert table.
• Vegan Cranberry Hand Pies: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. Use a flaxseed egg instead of regular eggs to bind the crust.
• Gluten-Free Cranberry Hand Pies: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well!
• Chocolate-Cranberry Hand Pies: Add mini chocolate chips to your cranberry filling for a delightful sweet and tart combination that chocolate lovers will adore.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Hand Pies

• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for indulgence.
• Serve warm alongside a steaming cup of tea or hot cider for a cozy treat.
• For a festive presentation, dust with powdered sugar and add fresh cranberries on the plate.
• Drizzle with the optional orange glaze for an extra touch of brightness.
• These hand pies are also delightful on a brunch platter, served with fresh fruit.

FAQs about Cranberry Hand Pies

As I share this exciting recipe for Cranberry Hand Pies, I understand you might have some questions. Here are a few of the most common queries I’ve encountered in my baking journey!

Can I use frozen cranberries for the filling? Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them, which means quicker prep time for you!

What can I substitute for all-purpose flour? If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free baking blend. It can yield great results without compromising the texture of your Cranberry Hand Pies.

How do I store leftover hand pies? These hand pies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven before enjoying!

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Of course! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll it out and fill it—so convenient!

Do I have to add the orange glaze? The orange glaze is optional, but it adds a lovely sweetness and tang. It really elevates the flavor of the hand pies. But if you prefer them plain, they’re still delicious!

Final Thoughts

Making Cranberry Hand Pies is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen and sharing delicious moments with loved ones. The joy of pulling these golden-brown pastries from the oven fills the air with warmth and anticipation. Each bite tells a story of tart cranberries and buttery goodness, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether for a casual family gathering or a festive brunch, these hand pies are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the baking adventure, and let these delightful treats bring a smile to your table!

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