The sweet scent of summer wafts through the air as I pull a tray of freshly baked Peach Hand Pies from the oven. These delightful hand-held desserts are not only a breeze to make, but they also transform seasonal peaches into an irresistible treat that everyone loves. With a buttery, flaky crust enveloping juicy peach filling, they’re perfect for sharing during backyard gatherings or enjoying as a quick pick-me-up on a busy day. Plus, these Peach Hand Pies are easily customizable, allowing you to experiment with different fruits, making them a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire. Curious about how to bring this summer favorite to life in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Why are Peach Hand Pies a must-try?
Sweet, Juicy Peaches: The combination of ripe peaches and a hint of brown sugar creates an explosion of flavor that truly embodies summer.
Effortless Preparation: Crafted with a simple dough that’s as easy as pie, this recipe makes baking fun, especially for novice chefs!
Customizable to Your Taste: Want to change things up? Feel free to substitute with apples or berries for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
Portable Delight: These hand pies are perfect for picnics or afternoon snacks, making them an ideal companion for any summer outing.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re not just delectable; Peach Hand Pies are sure to impress your guests, especially when served warm with a scoop of ice cream!
For a refreshing change, check out my Jalapeno Peach Glazed for a savory spin on peaches!
Peach Hand Pie Ingredients
• Get ready to create these delightful pastries!
For the Crust
- Unsalted Butter – 1 cup (226 g); keep it cold for a flaky texture.
- Cream Cheese – 8 ounces (226 g); softened ensures easy blending.
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 1/2 cups (300 g); no direct substitutes recommended for the best dough.
- Granulated Sugar – 2 teaspoons; adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon; balances flavors harmoniously.
For the Filling
- Chopped Peaches – 1 1/2 cups (255 g); fresh or thawed frozen peaches work beautifully.
- Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup (50 g); enhances sweetness and caramel flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon; adds warmth that pairs perfectly with peaches.
- Almond Extract – 1/4 teaspoon; amplifies the peach flavor; feel free to substitute with vanilla.
- Pinch of Salt – elevates the flavor of the peach filling.
For the Egg Wash
- Egg – 1 large; adds a golden glaze; replace with milk or a vegan option if desired.
- Water – 1 tablespoon; mix with egg to create a smooth wash.
These Peach Hand Pie ingredients promise to bring joy to your kitchen, filling your home with wonderful aromas and offering a scrumptious treat for everyone!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peach Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a food processor, combine 1 cup of cold unsalted butter, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and starts to form a dough, about 30 seconds. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
Step 2: Roll and Cut Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough chills. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of the chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out 4-inch rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the second disk of dough. This will create a delightful foundation for your Peach Hand Pies.
Step 3: Make Filling
In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups of chopped peaches with 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the peaches are well-coated, and the mixture is syrupy. This luscious filling is what makes your Peach Hand Pies irresistibly delicious and bursting with summer flavor.
Step 4: Assemble Hand Pies
Spoon a generous amount of the peach filling onto the center of each dough round. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, ensuring you leave a bit of space around the edges. Use a fork to seal the edges tightly, preventing any filling from leaking out during baking. Cut small slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape; this will help achieve a perfectly flaky crust.
Step 5: Bake
Brush the tops of the assembled Peach Hand Pies with an egg wash made from 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of water to achieve a golden, glossy finish. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pies are golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them during baking to ensure they don’t over-brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Peach Hand Pies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling time ensures the filling isn’t too hot to handle. Serve them warm for a delightful summer treat, or let them cool completely before storing. Enjoy these hand-held delights with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch!
Make Ahead Options
These Peach Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or even freeze it for up to 3 months. Make the filling in advance by mixing the chopped peaches with brown sugar, cinnamon, and almond extract, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, fill with the prepared peach mixture, seal, and brush with egg wash. This way, you minimize kitchen time while ensuring your hand pies are just as delicious and fresh when served. Enjoy quality homemade treats without the last-minute hassle!
Expert Tips for Peach Hand Pies
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Chill Your Ingredients: Make sure your butter is cold and cream cheese is softened. This helps the crust achieve that perfect flaky texture when baked.
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Don’t Overfill: Avoid adding too much peach filling to each pie. Overfilling can lead to delicious leaks during baking, disrupting the flaky crust.
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Seal Properly: Use a fork to seal the edges of the hand pies thoroughly. This ensures that the peach filling stays securely inside while baking.
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Cooling Time Matters: Allow your Peach Hand Pies to cool for at least 10 minutes after baking. This prevents burns from the hot, gooey peach filling when you take that first bite.
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Experiment With Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Try substituting peaches with apples or berries, adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
What to Serve with Homemade Peach Hand Pies?
Serving up warm, sweet Peach Hand Pies is only half the delight; let’s complete your summer meal with perfect pairings!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop on the side transforms each bite into creamy, dreamy perfection, balancing the warm, flaky texture beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: This light, airy topping adds a touch of sweetness and elegance, offering a thrilling contrast to the rich hand pies.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries brings a refreshing tartness and a pop of color, enhancing the summer vibe.
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Mint Tea: The coolness of this herbal tea refreshes your palate, making it an ideal drink alongside your warm hand pies.
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Lemonade: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade provides a zesty sweetness that complements the rich flavors of the peach filling.
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Coffee: A warm cup of brewed coffee pairs naturally with the sweet spices in the hand pies, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
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Peach Salsa: For a savory twist, try a peach salsa on the side. Its bright flavors will add an exciting contrast to the sweet hand pies.
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Almond Biscotti: These crunchy delights provide a perfect texture contrast and a nutty flavor that marries well with your peachy dessert.
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these options with your irresistible Peach Hand Pies!
How to Store and Freeze Peach Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Keep leftover Peach Hand Pies in a covered container for up to 2 days. This is ideal if you plan to enjoy them right away.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each hand pie individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months for future enjoyment.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crisp. Enjoy!
Peach Hand Pies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Peach Hand Pies with these delightful twists and substitutions!
- Apple Filling: Substitute peaches with chopped apples, adding extra cinnamon for a warm, autumn-inspired flavor.
- Berry Burst: Use fresh blueberries or strawberries for a vibrant, fruity filling that brightens each bite.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of chopped walnuts or pecans to the peach filling for a delightful crunch and added richness.
- Coconut Twist: Incorporate a sprinkle of shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical twist that complements the sweetness of the peaches.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly treat, replace the butter and cream cheese with coconut oil and plant-based cream cheese, and use almond milk for the egg wash.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the fruit filling for an unexpected spicy note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of peaches.
- Almond Replace: Swap almond extract for vanilla extract if you prefer a milder flavor profile, keeping the essence of the pie intact.
Remember, the possibilities are endless! Each variation brings its own unique charm, so don’t hesitate to discover your favorite flavor combination. For a fun and zesty alternative, you might also enjoy my Jalapeno Peach Glazed dish!
Peach Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect peaches for my hand pies?
Absolutely! When selecting peaches, look for ones that are firm but slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet aroma. The skin should be free of dark spots or blemishes, indicating ripeness. If you’re using frozen peaches, make sure they’re fully thawed and drained to prevent excess liquid in your filling.
What is the best way to store Peach Hand Pies?
For best results, store your Peach Hand Pies at room temperature in a covered container for up to 2 days. If you’d like to preserve their freshness longer, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember that they may lose some of their crispness in the fridge.
Can I freeze Peach Hand Pies, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Peach Hand Pies for up to 3 months! To do this, first, allow the pies to cool completely. Then, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or foil, ensuring they are tightly sealed. Place the wrapped pies in a freezer bag to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Why are my hand pies leaking during baking?
The more, the merrier in terms of filling, but be cautious! Overfilling the hand pies can lead to leakage. To prevent this, ensure you’re using a moderate amount of filling and seal the edges thoroughly with a fork. Another helpful tip is to cut small slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape, which helps maintain a flaky crust.
Are Peach Hand Pies suitable for vegetarians?
Very! This Peach Hand Pies recipe contains no meat or products derived from animals aside from the egg wash. If you’re catering to a vegan diet, simply replace the egg with a plant-based alternative like almond milk or aquafaba, and your pies will still turn out delicious.
How can I adjust this recipe for different fruits?
The sky’s the limit! You can substitute the peaches with various fruits like apples, blueberries, or strawberries. For apples, add an extra pinch of cinnamon to enhance their flavor. If using berries, I recommend slightly reducing the sugar to prevent the filling from becoming overly sweet. Each fruit will bring its unique flavor, crafting a diverse range of hand pie delights!
Irresistible Peach Hand Pies – A Sweet Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a food processor, combine 1 cup of cold unsalted butter, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and starts to form a dough, about 30 seconds. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough chills. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of the chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out 4-inch rounds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the second disk of dough.
- In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups of chopped peaches with 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the peaches are well-coated, and the mixture is syrupy.
- Spoon a generous amount of the peach filling onto the center of each dough round. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, ensuring you leave a bit of space around the edges. Use a fork to seal the edges tightly.
- Brush the tops of the assembled Peach Hand Pies with an egg wash made from 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
- Once baked, remove the Peach Hand Pies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving.
