Cherry Mitten Hand Pies are a festive and delightful dessert that captures the cozy essence of winter. These adorable pies, shaped like mittens, are filled with sweet, juicy cherries and baked to a golden crisp. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat, these hand pies offer a delicious combination of fruity filling and flaky crust.

Ingredients

2 cups cherries, pitted and halved
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package refrigerated pie crusts
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon water

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix together the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
Roll out the pie crusts and use a cookie cutter to cut out mitten shapes.
Place a spoonful of the cherry mixture onto half of the pie crust shapes.
Top with the remaining pie crust shapes and crimp the edges with a fork to seal the pies.
Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg wash.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown.
Allow to cool before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Fruit Filling: You can swap the cherries for other fruits like apples, blueberries, or raspberries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and cornstarch accordingly depending on the fruit’s juiciness.
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor perfect for the holidays.
Decorative Topping: For a more festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar over the pies once they have cooled or drizzle with icing.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the hand pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but they won’t be as crispy.

10 FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones? Yes, frozen cherries work well, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch? Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pie crust, you can use your favorite recipe, though refrigerated crust is quicker and more convenient.
How can I make the hand pies smaller? Use a smaller cookie cutter to make mini pies, adjusting the cooking time to around 15-18 minutes.
Can I use a different type of crust? Yes, you could use puff pastry or even phyllo dough for a different texture, though the baking time may vary.
What other fruit fillings can I use? Apples, peaches, or berries would work great as alternatives to cherries. You may need to adjust the sugar and cornstarch based on the fruit’s sweetness and juiciness.
Can I freeze these hand pies before baking? Yes, you can freeze the assembled hand pies before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from the freezer at 375°F for about 30 minutes.
Can I make the filling ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cherry filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before using.
What can I use instead of the egg wash? If you prefer a vegan option, you can brush the pies with a mixture of almond milk and a little sugar or use melted coconut oil for a golden finish.
Do these hand pies need to be refrigerated? No, these hand pies can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
Can I serve these with something? These hand pies are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra treat.

Conclusion

Cherry Mitten Hand Pies are a charming and tasty addition to any holiday spread. Their festive mitten shape, combined with the sweet cherry filling and flaky crust, makes them a delightful dessert everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or simply looking for a cozy winter treat, these hand pies are sure to become a favorite.