Have you ever wondered how to capture the essence of summer in a delicious, handheld dessert? Peach hand pies are the perfect solution! These delightful pastries combine the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh peaches with a flaky, buttery crust, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. In this post, we’ll explore a comprehensive Peach Hand Pies Recipe that’s not only easy to follow but also packed with tips and tricks to ensure your success in the kitchen.

Peach hand pies are not just a seasonal delight; they can be enjoyed year-round. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create these mouth-watering pastries that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these delectable treats!

Ingredients List

To create your Peach Hand Pies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base of your crust.
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold): For a flaky texture, cut into small cubes.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness.
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water: Helps bind the dough without making it sticky.

For the Peach Filling:

• 4 cups fresh peaches (peeled and sliced): The star of the recipe! You can substitute with frozen peaches if fresh ones are unavailable.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Adjust based on the sweetness of your peaches.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances the sweetness and adds brightness.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the filling to prevent sogginess.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.

Optional:

• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water): For a golden, shiny finish.
• Powdered sugar: For dusting before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking it.
4. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Peach Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly.
2. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes while the sugar draws out the juices.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Use a round cutter (about 4-5 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Repeat with the second disc of dough.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place a tablespoon of peach filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges to seal, and crimp with a fork for a decorative touch.
3. Place the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

1. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash for a golden finish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one peach hand pie (based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	250
Total Fat	12g
Saturated Fat	7g
Cholesterol	30mg
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	34g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	10g
Protein	3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your Peach Hand Pies a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Coconut Oil: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
• Reduced Sugar: Decrease the amount of sugar in the filling if your peaches are particularly sweet.

Serving Suggestions

These peach hand pies are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways:

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.
• Drizzled with Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness and complements the peach flavor.
• Accompanied by Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can enhance the experience.
• A Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a beautiful presentation, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Peach Hand Pies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overworking the Dough: This can lead to tough crusts. Mix just until combined.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling helps the butter firm up, resulting in a flakier crust.
• Filling Overload: Avoid overfilling the pies, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden color.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your peach hand pies fresh and delicious:

• At Room Temperature: Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked hand pies for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

In summary, making Peach Hand Pies is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that brings the flavors of summer to your table. With a flaky crust and a sweet peach filling, these hand pies are sure to delight your taste buds. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments section! Subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned peaches. Just be sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar according to their sweetness.

2. How do I know when the hand pies are done?

The hand pies are ready when they are golden brown on top and the filling is bubbling slightly.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.