# Easy Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies | Perfect for Any Occasion
You know that moment when the sweet scent of baked goods wafts through your home, wrapping you in a warm embrace? It’s that familiar feeling of comfort, joy, and childhood memories that brings a smile to your face. Cherry hand pies have a magical way of doing just that—each bite evokes summer picnics, family gatherings, and the simple pleasure of indulging in something homemade. Today, I’m excited to share my easy air fryer cherry hand pies recipe with you. This is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, one that is not only delectable but also quick and simple to make, thanks to the versatility of the air fryer.
By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll be ready to whip up these flaky, fruity, and lightly sweetened cherry hand pies that can grace any occasion—whether it’s a potluck, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a charming dessert for your next dinner party. Trust me, they’re bound to steal the show!
## What are Easy Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies?
Cherry hand pies are a delightful variation of traditional fruit-filled pastries. Originating from various cultures, these little pies encase a burst of **sweet cherries** in a tender, flaky crust. With the advent of kitchen appliances like the air fryer, making these treats has never been easier! The air fryer creates a perfectly crisp and golden exterior while keeping the insides jammy and delicious.
Imagine breaking into a hand pie: the crust shatters slightly around the edges, giving way to the glossy, sticky, and slightly tart cherry filling within. The contrast between the textured pastry and the soft, juicy filling is something that elevates each bite into pure bliss. People love them not only for their burst of flavors but also for their convenience—great for parties, lunchboxes, or weekend treats.
## Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies
There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for these easy air fryer cherry hand pies. Firstly, they’re incredibly simple to make. You can prepare the filling in advance, and the air fryer cuts down on cooking time while giving that delightful golden-brown finish. Secondly, they’re versatile! You can make them with fresh, frozen, or even canned cherries, making them suitable for any time of year.
What’s more? These hand pies are great for meal prep. You can whip up a batch, freeze them, and pop them in the air fryer whenever a craving strikes. They are delightful, portable treats that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for any occasion. From picnics to parties, the charming appeal of these hand pies makes them a hot favorite among friends and family alike.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step process of crafting these scrumptious cherry hand pies, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
### For the Crust:
– **1 package of refrigerated pie crusts**: These provide a flaky and tender base that’s quick, easy, and can be found at any grocery store. You can opt for homemade crust if you prefer!
– **1 egg**: Lightly beaten, for an appealing golden color when brushed on top before cooking.
### For the Cherry Filling:
– **2 cups fresh or frozen cherries**: If using fresh cherries, be sure to pit and slice them. For frozen, ensure they’re mostly thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture.
– **⅓ cup granulated sugar**: This enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries. You can adjust this depending on your taste preference.
– **1 tablespoon cornstarch**: This helps thicken the filling and keeps it from becoming too runny.
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: Adds an extra layer of flavor to your filling.
– **1 teaspoon lemon juice**: Provides a bright contrast to the sweetness, making the cherry flavor pop.
**Note:** Feel free to substitute the cherries with other fruits like blueberries, apples, or peaches for varied hand pie flavors.
## How to Make Easy Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies
Now that we have all the ingredients at hand, let’s roll up our sleeves and create these delightful cherry hand pies! Follow these simple steps:
### Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine your **cherries**, **sugar**, **cornstarch**, **vanilla extract**, and **lemon juice**.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring regularly, until the mixture begins to bubble and the cherries soften. You’ll notice the filling transform into a deep, rich color.
3. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly. This will prevent the dough from becoming too soft when filling the crust.
### Step 2: Assemble the Hand Pies
4. Roll out your **pie crusts** on a clean surface, dusted lightly with flour. You want to cut them into circles of about 5 inches in diameter. A large coffee mug works wonders for this!
5. Place a spoonful of the cherry filling in the center of each dough round. Be cautious not to overfill; a heaping tablespoon is usually perfect.
6. Fold the dough over, creating a half-moon shape, and gently press the edges together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch!
### Step 3: Air Fry the Hand Pies
7. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
8. Lightly brush the tops of the hand pies with the **beaten egg** for that lovely golden finish.
9. Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to check them halfway through; they should look beautifully golden-brown and crispy!
### Step 4: Cool & Serve
10. Once done, carefully remove the hand pies from the air fryer and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Letting them cool slightly will also allow the filling to set up a little more, preventing any mess when you bite into them!
## Tips, Tricks & Variations
Here are some expert tips to ensure your air fryer cherry hand pies turn out perfectly every time:
– **Use High-Quality Ingredients**: Opt for **fresh cherries** when in season for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are pitted and thawed.
– **Keep Dough Cold**: To achieve the flakiest crust, chill the pie dough in the fridge before rolling it out. Cold fats create layers in the pastry.
– **Make Ahead**: Assemble the hand pies and freeze them before air frying. When you’re ready, you can cook them straight from frozen; they may need an additional 2-4 minutes in the air fryer.
– **Explore Flavor Combinations**: Experiment with various fillings like chocolate, cream cheese, or other fruits for a unique twist.
– **Serving Suggestions**: For an extra touch, serve your hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience.
## What to Serve With Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies
These cherry hand pies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with complementary flavors can take your dessert game to the next level. Here are some favorite pairings:
– **Vanilla Ice Cream**: The coolness of vanilla ice cream against the warm, fruity filling creates a comforting contrast.
– **Fresh Whipped Cream**: A simple dollop of whipped cream can elevate the experience, adding creaminess and a touch of sweetness.
– **Coffee or Herbal Tea**: Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a soothing herbal tea alongside your hand pies for an afternoon treat.
– **Chocolate Sauce**: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the top can add a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
## Nutrition & Health Benefits
While cherry hand pies are a treat, they can also have some nutritional benefits. Cherries are known for their antioxidants, particularly **anthocyanins**, which contribute to heart health and anti-inflammatory effects. Depending on the portion, easy air fryer cherry hand pies can be portion-controlled, allowing for a satisfying dessert without overindulgence.
While exact nutritional values will depend on the ingredients used and portion sizes, expect these hand pies to be around 200-250 calories each. For more detailed nutritional information, check out comprehensive resources like the [USDA National Nutrient Database](https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/) to help inform your choices.
## Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use other fruits instead of cherries?**
Absolutely! You can substitute cherries with other fruits like blueberries, blackberries, apples, or even a mixed berry filling. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and thickening agent according to the fruit’s natural sweetness and juiciness.
**2. Can I freeze uncooked hand pies?**
Yes! Assemble the hand pies and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen in the air fryer; just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
**3. How long do these hand pies last?**
Once baked, the hand pies will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. If needed, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
**4. Can I make a vegan version?**
Yes! You can create a vegan cherry filling using the same ingredients, and substitute the pie crust with a store-bought vegan pie crust. Use plant-based milk instead of egg wash for the top crust.
**5. What’s the best method to reheat leftover hand pies?**
The air fryer is the best way to reheat hand pies, as it will return some of the original crispiness to the crust. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
## Conclusion
These easy air fryer cherry hand pies are everything you want in a dessert—delicious, simple, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cozying up at home or impressing friends at a gathering, these little treats will leave a lasting impression. The balance of sweet, tart cherry filling nestled in a flaky crust is a match made in pastry heaven.
So why not bring a medley of delightful flavors and textures into your kitchen today? Gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and whip up a batch of these delightful hand pies. Your taste buds will thank you! If you loved this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts or see your creations—tag me on Instagram or leave a comment below!
Happy baking!
