If you’re on the hunt for a quick, delightful treat that combines flaky crust with a luscious, sweet center, you’re in for a real treat with this Air Fryer Cherry Filling Hand Pies Recipe. These hand pies are the perfect embodiment of comfort and convenience, delivering that homemade pie flavor without hours in the kitchen. Crispy on the outside, bursting with cherry goodness inside, and made effortlessly in your air fryer, these pies will quickly become your go-to for a snack, dessert, or anytime indulgence. Let me guide you through making these charming little pockets of joy that taste like a bakery treat, but come together in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Air Fryer Cherry Filling Hand Pies Recipe is all about simplicity and accessibility. Each ingredient plays a key role: the pie crust brings that flaky, buttery foundation; the cherry filling adds sweet tangy juiciness; and the spray oil helps achieve a golden, crispy finish. Optional sparkling sugar or sprinkles provide a touch of festive fun and extra crunch.
- 1 box premade pie crust: Convenient and buttery, this makes the process quick and foolproof without sacrificing flavor.
- 6 tablespoons cherry filling: Adds vibrant sweetness and a juicy, fruity center that makes each bite unforgettable.
- Spray oil: Ensures the crust crisps beautifully in the air fryer without sticking or drying out.
- Sparkling sugar or sprinkles (optional): A playful touch that adds sparkle, texture, and visual appeal to your hand pies.
How to Make Air Fryer Cherry Filling Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust Circles
Start by unrolling your premade pie crust on a clean surface. Use a 4-inch round cutter or the rim of a cereal bowl to cut out neat circles. These will become the base and top of your hand pies, so aim for even sizes to ensure perfect sealing and consistent baking. This simple step sets the stage for flaky, golden hand pies every time.
Step 2: Add the Cherry Filling
Place about a tablespoon of cherry filling on one side of each dough circle. Take care to leave a little border around the edges so the filling doesn’t spill out during cooking. This measured filling gives you a juicy burst of cherry sweetness without overwhelming the delicate crust.
Step 3: Seal the Edges
Dip your finger in a bowl of water and run it around the edge of the dough circle. This little trick helps the dough to stick together when folded. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly with a fork to crimp and seal. This step keeps the filling contained and creates that classic hand pie look with a lovely textured edge.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare to Air Fry
Set your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat. While waiting, lightly spray each pie with oil to promote browning. If you want a bit of sparkle and crunch, sprinkle some sparkling sugar or sprinkles on top. This touch not only looks delightful but adds a subtle sweetness and texture.
Step 5: Air Fry the Hand Pies
Place the pies in your air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch to allow hot air circulation for even cooking. Cook at 370 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 8 minutes. Keep a watchful eye as they near the end because the sugar can caramelize quickly, turning your pies a beautiful golden brown. The air fryer’s rapid heat ensures a crunchy crust and warm, melty filling every time.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Finally, let your hand pies cool for 5 to 10 minutes once removed from the air fryer. The filling will be very hot, and this resting time allows the juices to set slightly, so you can enjoy them without any mess or burns. The result is a perfectly portable, handheld pie bursting with cherry flavor!
How to Serve Air Fryer Cherry Filling Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh, simple garnishes can elevate your hand pies beautifully. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate offers a lovely contrast to the deep cherry filling. Fresh mint leaves or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side brings extra freshness and creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the warmth and sweetness of the pies.
Side Dishes
These hand pies shine on their own as a cozy treat but also complement a wider spread brilliantly. Pair with a crisp green salad to balance sweetness for a brunch or serve alongside whipped cream and fresh berries for a stunning dessert display. A cup of hot tea or coffee makes the perfect warming beverage companion for your hand pies.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or special occasions, arrange your air fryer cherry filling hand pies on a rustic wooden board with assorted dipping sauces like chocolate ganache or caramel sauce. You can also serve a variety platter using different pie fillings for a fun tasting party. Stack them in a pyramid for a charming centerpiece or wrap individually for an adorable gift or party favor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator to extend freshness. When refrigerated, allow the pies to come to room temperature before eating or gently reheat them to revive their flaky crust and warm filling.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead option. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap or foil then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a treat, thaw them at room temperature and re-crisp briefly in the air fryer for fresh-from-the-oven flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your hand pies into the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 3 minutes or until the crust is warmed through and crispy again. This method restores that fresh-out-of-the-air-fryer texture much better than a microwave, keeping the edges flaky and the filling just right.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust for the hand pies?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust works wonderfully in this Air Fryer Cherry Filling Hand Pies Recipe. Just roll your dough to about 1/8-inch thickness for easy handling and a perfect flaky crust.
What other fillings can I use besides cherry?
You can experiment with any fruit filling you love such as apple, blueberry, peach, or even non-fruit options like Nutella or sweetened cream cheese. The possibilities are endless and delicious.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking the pies?
Preheating helps the hand pies cook evenly and crisp up quickly, so it’s recommended. Set your air fryer to 370°F and allow a few minutes before adding the pies for the best results.
Can I bake the hand pies in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven. Place the pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and crisp, but the air fryer method is faster and yields an amazingly flaky crust.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Use a wet finger to moisten the edges of the dough before sealing and crimp firmly with a fork. Avoid overfilling the pies to help keep the cherry filling securely inside during cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about biting into a warm, flaky hand pie filled with sweet cherry goodness, and this Air Fryer Cherry Filling Hand Pies Recipe is the easiest way to make that happen anytime. Whether you’re making a quick after-school snack or a charming dessert for guests, these hand pies deliver big on flavor with minimal fuss. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how simple, tasty, and downright fun it is to create these little pockets of happiness!
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Air Fryer Cherry Filling Hand Pies Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 hand pies
Description
These Air Fryer Hand Pies feature a flaky, crispy crust with sweet cherry filling, made effortlessly using store-bought pie crust and cooked quickly in an air fryer. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, they bring the comforting taste of homemade pastries with minimal effort and time.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 box premade pie crust
Filling
- 6 tablespoons cherry pie filling
Additional
- Spray oil for coating
- Sparkling sugar or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Cut Pie Crust Circles: Unroll the premade pie crust on a lightly floured surface and cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter using a cookie cutter or the rim of a cereal bowl.
- Add Filling: Place a tablespoon of cherry pie filling on one side of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges.
- Moisten Edges: Dip a finger in a bowl of water and run it around the edge of the filled circle to help seal the crust.
- Seal Pies: Fold the dough over to cover the filling and press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges securely, ensuring no filling leaks during cooking.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for a few minutes.
- Oil and Decorate: Lightly spray each hand pie with oil. Optionally, sprinkle with sparkling sugar or sprinkles for added sweetness and texture.
- Air Fry: Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching, and cook at 370°F for 5 to 8 minutes. Watch carefully near the end to avoid over-browning; pies should be golden and flaky when done.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set and avoid burns.
Notes
- Do not overfill the pies to prevent filling leakage and soggy crust.
- Seal edges well using a fork to avoid any gaps where filling can escape.
- Experiment with different pie fillings such as apple, blueberry, or chocolate spreads.
- Serve warm for a crispy crust and gooey filling experience; reheat in the air fryer if necessary.
- Oven baking alternative: Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Store cooled pies in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 2 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- To restore crispiness after storage, reheat briefly in the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
