Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug from your oven, these Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies are exactly what you need. Bursting with sweet, tangy apricot jam nestled inside a buttery, flaky crust, these little pies are pure magic. Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack, an elegant dessert, or even as a special addition to your holiday spread, they’re wonderfully handheld and incredibly satisfying. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of fruitiness and rich pastry, making these pies a forever favorite in my kitchen and one you’re going to adore as well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies lies in how straightforward yet essential the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role — from the tender, flaky crust to the luscious apricot filling — making the end result nothing short of extraordinary.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our tender, flaky pastry crust.
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed: Cold butter cuts into the flour, creating those irresistible flaky layers.
• 1/4 cup sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the apricot jam perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup ice water: Helps bring the dough together without melting the butter.
• 3/4 cup apricot jam: The star of the show — sweet, fruity, and jam-packed with flavor.
• 1 tablespoon milk: A light brush to give the pies a golden, appetizing finish.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: For a final delicate dusting that adds a touch of charm.

How to Make Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt — the dry foundation that will become your gorgeous crust.

Step 2: Incorporate the Butter

Next comes the magic step: cut the cold, cubed butter into your flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to achieving that perfect flaky texture everyone loves in hand pies.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Slowly add the ice water, just a bit at a time, mixing gently until the dough starts to come together. It should be soft but not sticky, ready to roll out into the perfect pie crust.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into squares — these will be the little pockets that hold all that scrumptious apricot jam.

Step 5: Fill and Fold

Place about a teaspoon of apricot jam in the center of each square. Fold the dough over to create a triangle or rectangle, then carefully seal the edges to keep all that fruity goodness inside during baking.

Step 6: Brush and Bake

Brush each hand pie with milk to give them a gorgeous golden color as they bake, then pop them in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes. When they’re puffed and golden, you know they’re ready!

Step 7: Cool and Dust

Once baked, allow your Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies to cool slightly, then dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch that will make everyone swoon.

How to Serve Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies

Garnishes

Freshly dusted powdered sugar is a simple yet beautiful garnish that not only adds a bit of sweetness but also makes these hand pies look irresistible. A sprig of mint or a light drizzle of honey can elevate their presentation even more for special occasions.

Side Dishes

These pies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert vibe. For a brighter contrast, serve alongside fresh berries or a crisp cup of tea or coffee to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re thinking of turning these into a party hit, arrange your Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies on a tiered cake stand or a rustic wooden board. Adding edible flowers or powdered sugar patterns on top can give them a charming, bakery-style look that’ll impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (they do tend to disappear quickly), store your hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them tender while maintaining their delicious flavor.

Freezing

These pies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep perfectly for up to three months, ready to bake fresh when craving strikes.

Reheating

To enjoy your Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies warm after storage or freezing, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. This refreshes their crispness and melts the jam inside into a luscious treat.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apricots instead of apricot jam?

Absolutely! To use fresh apricots, chop them finely and cook with a little sugar until thickened. This homemade filling will give your hand pies a fresh, fruity punch.

Is it possible to make these hand pies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s suitable for baking. Just keep an eye on the dough’s consistency, as gluten-free doughs can be a bit more delicate.

How do I know when the hand pies are fully baked?

Look for a golden-brown crust and slightly puffed edges. The aroma alone will tell you they’re done, but a visual check is the best method to ensure they’re baked through.

Can these pies be made vegan?

For a vegan version, swap butter for a plant-based alternative, and use non-dairy milk for brushing. Choose a vegan apricot jam to keep the filling completely plant-friendly.

What’s the best way to seal the edges to prevent filling leaks?

Press the edges firmly with a fork or your fingers after folding. You can also slightly dampen the dough edges with water before sealing to help them stick together better.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing Scrumptious Apricot Hand Pies. They’re simple, comforting, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re new to baking hand pies or a seasoned pro, I encourage you to try this recipe and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen and on your dessert table.

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