These cozy hand pies are bursting with warm spices and tender fruit, making them the perfect treat for crisp autumn days. Easy to make and wonderfully flaky, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix together the chopped apple, pear, brown sugar, vanilla, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pastry dough. Use a 3- to 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles. Spoon a little of the fruit filling onto the center of each circle, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, and if you like, use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice finish. Place the pies on your prepared baking sheet.
Use a sharp knife to make three small slits on top of each pie to let steam escape. Whisk together an egg and a splash of water, then brush this over the pies’ tops. Sprinkle a bit of decorating sugar on them for some sparkle.
Pop the pies in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden. Let them cool on a rack for around 20 minutes before moving on.
If you want, melt some chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl by heating in 15-second bursts, stirring in between, until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled pies for a delicious finishing touch.
- Use cold butter when making the dough to ensure a flaky crust.
- Don’t overfill the pies to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
These hand pies are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors that capture the essence of autumn. They are easy to make, portable, and provide a warm, comforting treat on chilly days. The flaky crust pairs beautifully with the tender fruit filling, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Serve these hand pies warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair nicely with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or spiced cider for a cozy snack or dessert.
Store leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them wrapped tightly for up to three months. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness before serving.
