Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Recipe

If you have a soft spot for tender, flaky pastry combined with the burst of juicy blueberries and zesty lemon brightness, then this Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These hand pies are perfectly portable little parcels, bursting with a luscious filling that balances sweet and tart flavors in every single bite. Whether you need a delightful snack, a charming dessert for a gathering, or just a simple way to brighten up your day, these hand pies bring homemade warmth and sunshine right to your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Recipe plays an essential role, from creating the flaky crust to delivering the fresh, vibrant filling. The simplicity of these ingredients means you can often find them right in your pantry and fridge, but their combination results in something truly special.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender base for the pie dough.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the crust.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates the flaky texture that makes the crust melt in your mouth.
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water: Brings the dough together without warming the butter.
• 2 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed): The star of the filling, offering juicy pops of berry goodness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just right.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling so it doesn’t run.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds that essential citrus zing to brighten the berries.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Infuses the filling with fragrant lemon oils for depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a warm undertone.
• Pinch of salt: Amplifies the sweetness and zestiness.
• 1 egg (for egg wash): Gives the crust a golden, glossy finish.
• 1 tablespoon water: Mixed with the egg for the perfect wash.
• Additional granulated sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a delicate crunch and sparkle on top of the pies.

How to Make Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. This dry base is simple but critical for balancing sweetness and flavor in the crust. Then add the cold cubed butter and work it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter, fork, or even your fingertips, aiming for a texture like coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter bits still visible. This little detail ensures that flakiness everyone loves.

Step 2: Combine the Dough

Slowly add ice water—one tablespoon at a time—while mixing gently. The cold water helps the dough come together without warming the butter, which can make the crust tough. Once the dough just starts to cling, resist the urge to overwork it to keep that delicate, buttery texture intact.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in two, form each half into a disc, wrap them tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling firms the butter again, which will help you roll out clean layers later. This step might seem like waiting, but patience here is what gives you perfect hand pies.

Step 4: Prepare the Blueberry Lemon Filling

While your dough chills, mix together the blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. This mix balances sweetness with tartness and thickens during baking, creating a filling that’s juicy but not runny.

Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough disc into about a 1/8-inch thick circle. Using a round cutter or a small bowl, cut out circles large enough to hold a generous spoonful of blueberry lemon filling. Don’t rush this part—rolling evenly ensures uniform cooking and beautiful hand pies.

Step 6: Fill and Seal the Hand Pies

Place a spoonful of the blueberry lemon filling in the center of each dough circle. Moisten the edges with a little water, fold the circle over into a half-moon, and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal in the deliciousness. This ensures no filling escapes during baking, keeping your pies neat and tidy.

Step 7: Apply Egg Wash and Sugar

Whisk together the egg and water for your egg wash, then brush each hand pie generously. Sprinkle additional granulated sugar on top to add a subtle sparkle and delightful crunch once baked—little touches like this make your pies even more inviting.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven and bake the pies until golden and bubbly. The crust will turn a beautiful golden brown, while the filling will steam and thicken inside, capturing the irresistible mix of blueberry sweetness and lemon tang.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before diving in. This resting time lets the filling set so that each bite bursts with flavor but doesn’t drip. These pies are perfect warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion.

How to Serve Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Recipe

Garnishes

For a simple yet elegant touch, dust your hand pies with a little powdered sugar or a light drizzle of glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar. Fresh mint leaves or a small dollop of whipped cream can also complement the bright blueberry lemon flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast that balances the fruity zest. A cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee turns these bite-sized delights into a cozy afternoon indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these pies on a rustic wooden board with scattered fresh blueberries and lemon slices for a charming, farm-to-table feel. For gatherings, place them in colorful cupcake liners or wrap in parchment paper tied with twine to make each pie a festive, handheld gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for about a week. Keeping them covered helps maintain the crust’s tenderness without drying out the filling.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these hand pies later, they freeze beautifully. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to two months without losing quality.

Reheating

To bring your hand pies back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method crisps up the crust just like fresh baking, while warming the filling perfectly. Avoid microwaves if you want to keep that signature flakiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid to prevent the filling from becoming too watery. Frozen blueberries can be a convenient option that doesn’t compromise the flavor.

How can I make the crust extra flaky?

Using cold butter and minimal water is key. Also, chilling the dough before rolling and handling it gently helps maintain those beautiful butter pockets that create flakiness when baked.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made up to two days in advance and refrigerated, wrapped well to prevent drying. For longer storage, you can freeze it and thaw in the fridge before rolling.

Is it possible to make these hand pies vegan?

Definitely! You can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a plant-based milk egg wash or simply brush the crust with maple syrup or almond milk for that golden finish.

What’s the best way to avoid soggy bottoms in these hand pies?

Make sure to thicken the filling well with cornstarch and avoid overfilling the pies. Also, baking directly on a preheated baking sheet or stone helps crisp the bottom crust nicely.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about homemade Blueberry Lemon Hand Pies Recipe—combining the joy of fresh fruit and buttery crust in a perfectly handheld package. Once you try making these, you’ll see why they become an instant classic for any season or occasion. Go ahead and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful, sunny pies. I promise they’ll bring smiles with every bite!

Print