Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. The sweet cherry filling is balanced with a buttery, crisp crust that practically melts in your mouth. The heart shape adds a fun and festive touch, making them perfect for romantic occasions or anytime you want to show someone you care. They’re simple to make, portable, and perfect for a snack or dessert. With this recipe, you can enjoy homemade hand pies that taste just like a warm cherry pie—only better because they’re perfectly portioned!

Ingredients

For the crust:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
4-6 tablespoons ice water

For the cherry filling:

2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

For the egg wash:

1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until smooth. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Make the cherry filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy (about 8-10 minutes). Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Roll out the dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a rectangle or circle about ¼ inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter (or a template) to cut out heart shapes from the dough. You’ll need to cut out two hearts for each hand pie.
Assemble the hand pies: Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of one heart-shaped dough cutout. Top with another heart-shaped piece of dough, pressing the edges together gently. Use a fork to crimp the edges to seal the pies. Cut a small slit in the top of each hand pie to allow steam to escape.
Apply the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish.
Bake the pies: Place the assembled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cool and serve: Let the hand pies cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 hand pies
Prep Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time for dough)
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Other Fruit Fillings: If you don’t have cherries, you can substitute with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or apples. Just adjust the sugar and cornstarch as needed.
Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the filling for extra citrus flavor.
Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a spiced twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked hand pies before egg-washing them. Once assembled, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought pie crust for the homemade crust. Just make sure to roll it out thinly and cut out the heart shapes as directed.

2. Can I make these hand pies without a heart-shaped cutter?

Of course! You can use a round cutter or simply cut squares or rectangles for a more rustic hand pie look.

3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cherry filling a day or two ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just allow it to cool completely before using it to assemble the pies.

4. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to seal the edges of the hand pies well, using a fork to crimp the edges. Also, cutting a small vent on top allows steam to escape, reducing the risk of the filling oozing out.

5. Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling.

6. Can I add more sugar to the cherry filling?

If you like a sweeter filling, feel free to add more sugar to the cherry mixture. Start with a tablespoon at a time and taste until it’s to your liking.

7. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and freeze the hand pies before baking. Bake them straight from the freezer for a fresh, warm treat!

8. Can I use a different shape besides hearts?

Yes! You can use any shape cookie cutter or simply make the pies in a round or square shape. Just adjust the baking time if necessary.

9. Can I glaze the pies after baking?

Yes, for an extra sweet touch, you can drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk over the top of the hand pies once they’ve cooled slightly.

10. Are these hand pies suitable for a crowd?

Absolutely! These hand pies are easy to serve and great for parties, gatherings, or any special occasion. They’re portable and easy to eat, making them a fun treat for everyone.

Conclusion

These Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect way to add a little sweetness to your day. With their flaky, buttery crust and fruity, tangy cherry filling, they are a crowd-pleasing dessert for any occasion. The heart shape makes them especially perfect for romantic celebrations, but they’re so delicious that you’ll want to enjoy them all year round. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these hand pies will bring smiles to everyone who tries them!

Heart-Shaped Cherry Hand Pies