Fruit hand pies

Introduction

There's something inherently comforting about hand pies. These delightful pockets of pastry can be filled with a variety of fruits, offering a sweet and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. In this article, we'll guide you through an easy-to-make fruit hand pie recipe, specifically tailored for the air fryer. Not only does this method offer a quick cooking time, but it also results in a crispy, golden-brown crust that's hard to resist.

Delicious fruit hand pies ready to be air fried

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet of ready-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
  • 1 cup mixed fresh or frozen fruit (such as berries, apples, or peaches)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Additional sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Ingredients for making fruit hand pies

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by preparing the fruit filling. In a medium bowl, combine the mixed fruit, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss the fruit gently until it is evenly coated with the sugar and cornstarch mixture. This will help thicken the filling as it cooks, preventing it from becoming too runny.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Using a round cutter (or a glass), cut out circles from the dough, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. These will form the base and top of your hand pies.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies

Place a spoonful of fruit filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Lightly moisten the border with water, then fold the other half over the filling to form a semi-circle. Use a fork to crimp the edges securely, ensuring the filling will not escape during cooking.

Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying

In a small bowl, mix the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this over the top of each hand pie to promote even browning. For an additional touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle a bit of sugar over the top of each pie.

Hand pies assembled and brushed with egg wash, ready for air frying

Step 5: Air Fry the Hand Pies

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (355°F). Place the hand pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other. Cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving, as the filling will be very hot. These hand pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet snack on the go.

Tips and Variations

  • Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings, such as cherries, plums, or even a mix of your favourite berries.
  • If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar in the filling, or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
  • To make these hand pies vegan, use a plant-based pastry and replace the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup.
  • Get creative with spice additions - a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a lovely warmth to apple or pear fillings.

Conclusion

Air frying fruit hand pies is a fantastic way to enjoy this classic dessert with minimal fuss and maximum flavour. The ease of preparation and the adaptability of the recipe make it a winner for both experienced bakers and kitchen novices alike. Whether you're making these hand pies for a family gathering, a picnic, or simply as a treat for yourself, these delectable pockets of joy are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Happy cooking!