Welcome to the world of adorable and delicious treats with these Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies! Perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or just because, these hand pies are sure to melt the heart of anyone who takes a bite. The flaky pastry and sweet strawberry filling create a delightful combination that’s hard to resist.

These hand pies are not only cute but also surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these sweet treats in no time. So, let’s get baking and spread some love with these heart-shaped delights!

These Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies are a charming twist on classic hand pies. The flaky pastry is filled with a sweet strawberry mixture that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for special occasions or as a thoughtful gift, these hand pies are both delicious and visually appealing.

Exciting Story:

I first made these hand pies for a Valentine’s Day surprise, and they were an instant hit with my loved ones. The heart shape added a special touch that made them feel even more loved. Now, they’ve become a tradition in our family, and we make them for every special occasion. There’s something so satisfying about seeing the joy on people’s faces when they receive a homemade treat shaped like a heart.

Why These Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies are a Must-Try

Selling Points:

• Adorable Presentation: The heart shape makes these hand pies a perfect gift for loved ones.
• Flaky Pastry: The golden, flaky pastry is a delight to bite into, revealing a sweet strawberry center.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, these hand pies come together quickly.
• Versatile: Customize the filling with ifferent fruits or add a touch of spice for variety.

What You Need For Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies

For the Pastry:

• 1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Granulated sugar for sprinkling

For the Strawberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie crust to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using a heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut out an even number of hearts for the tops and bottoms of your hand pies.

In a saucepan, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens. Stir in the vanilla extract and allow the filling to cool slightly.

Place half of the heart-shaped pie crusts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a small amount of the strawberry filling onto the center of each heart, leaving a border around the edges.

Brush the edges of each heart with the beaten egg and place another heart-shaped pie crust on top. Press the edges gently to seal, and crimp with a fork for a decorative touch. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. Allow the hand pies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips For Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies:

• Chill the Pastry: Keep the pie crust chilled until ready to use for the flakiest results.
• Customize the Filling: Experiment with different fruits or add a touch of spice for variety.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Different Fruits: Try using other berries or a mix of fruits for a unique flavor profile.
• Spiced Filling: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the strawberry filling for extra warmth.
• Savory Option: Fill the pastry with a savory mixture, like spinach and feta, for a unique appetizer.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Low-Sugar Filling: Reduce the sugar in the strawberry filling for a lower-sugar option.
• Whole Wheat Pastry: Use whole wheat pie crust for added fiber.
• Lighten Up: Use a lighter pie crust recipe with less butter or oil.

Closing For Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies:

And there you have it! A sweet treat that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your heart-shaped hand pies turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions For Heart-Shaped Strawberry Hand Pies:

Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy? Ensure the filling is not too runny before assembling.

Can I make these ahead of time? Assemble the hand pies just before baking for the best texture.

What if I don’t have a heart-shaped cookie cutter? Use a knife to cut out heart shapes or use a different shape.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the hand pies? Yes, freeze before baking and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if my filling is too runny? Cook it a bit longer to thicken.

Can I add other flavors to the filling? Yes, experiment with different extracts or zests.

How do I know when the hand pies are done? They should be golden brown and the filling should be bubbling slightly.

Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, but it may affect the texture and flavor.

What if my pastry is too crumbly? Add a bit more water to the dough.

Can I make larger hand pies? Yes, adjust the baking time accordingly.

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