The moment you sink your teeth into a warm Nectarine Hand Pie, the world fades away. You experience the flaky crust that crumbles just enough to reveal the sweet, juicy filling bursting with summer’s best nectarines. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it smell like a bakery on a Sunday morning. Patriotic Popsicles You can almost hear the angels singing as you take that first bite, each mouthful a harmonious blend of sweetness and buttery goodness.
I remember the first time I made these delightful treats. It was a lazy afternoon in August, and my kitchen looked like a fruit market exploded. My neighbor’s tree was practically begging me to pick its ripe nectarines, and I thought, “Why not make something magical?” Well, let me tell you—these hand pies became an instant family favorite! Perfect for picnics, dessert tables, or even breakfast on-the-go, they’re an ideal way to savor summer flavors long after the season ends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Nectarine Hand Pies are incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve success.
- Bursting with vibrant flavors of fresh nectarines, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart.
- Their golden-brown crust makes them visually appealing at any gathering or event.
- Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, these hand pies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Nectarine Hand Pies
For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Nectarines: Select ripe but firm nectarines for the best flavor and texture in your filling.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that flaky pie crust; use unbleached flour if possible.
- Cold Unsalted Butter: Cut into small cubes; this will help create those lovely flaky layers in the crust.
- Sugar: A bit of granulated sugar sweetens the filling; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
- Ground Cinnamon: Just a pinch enhances the natural sweetness of the nectarines.
- Salt: A little salt balances out the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Ice Water: Adding cold water helps bind the dough without melting the butter too quickly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Nectarine Hand Pies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by mixing together flour and salt in a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, incorporate cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While your dough chills, wash and slice your nectarines into thin wedges. In a medium bowl, combine sliced nectarines with sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until all pieces are coated in sweetness.
Step 3: Roll Out Your Dough
After chilling time is up, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour your workspace and roll out half of the dough into about an eighth-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or bowl to cut circles—this will be your hand pie base.
Step 4: Assemble Your Hand Pies
Place about one tablespoon of filling onto one half of each circle of dough. Fold over the other half and press edges together firmly. Seal edges with a fork for that classic hand pie look!
Step 5: Bake Those Pies
Arrange your assembled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with an egg wash (a beaten egg) for golden color during baking. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown.
Step 6: Ready to Serve
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving—but honestly? Who can wait that long? Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy them straight up! Blueberry Cream Pie Bars.
Now you’ve created these scrumptious Nectarine Hand Pies that are not only delightful but also guaranteed to impress anyone who lays eyes on them!
You Must Know
- Nectarine hand pies are not just a dessert; they’re a slice of summer in every bite.
- These flaky treats can be made ahead and are perfect for sharing.
- Their sweet, juicy filling brings joy to any occasion, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your nectarines and dough. Roll out the dough, fill with fruit, and fold into perfect pockets. Bake while you sip on some lemonade for a refreshing multitasking moment that will keep everyone guessing how you managed to pull off such deliciousness!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap nectarines for peaches or apricots if you’re feeling adventurous! A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile, while a sprinkle of brown sugar adds extra caramelization. Get creative with your favorite spices!
Storing & Reheating
Store your nectarines hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped individually. Reheat in the oven to restore their delightful crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use ripe but firm nectarines for the best flavor and texture.
- If the dough feels too sticky, chill it briefly before rolling out.
- Always seal your edges well to prevent leaks during baking.
I once brought these nectarines hand pies to a family picnic, and they vanished faster than my cousin’s attempts at hiding from the camera! Everyone raved about them, which made me feel like a baking rock star for the day.
FAQs :
What are Nectarine Hand Pies?
Nectarine hand pies are delightful pastries filled with sweet and juicy nectarines. These handheld treats feature a flaky crust that encases the flavorful filling. They are easy to make and perfect for on-the-go snacking or dessert. No Bake Firecracker Cheesecake You can customize them with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Whether baked or fried, these mini pies are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home.
How do I make the crust for Nectarine Hand Pies?
To create a tender and flaky crust for your nectarines hand pies, you’ll need flour, butter, salt, and water. Begin by mixing the flour and salt in a bowl. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough holds together. Roll it out on a floured surface and cut into circles. This simple yet effective method ensures your crust is deliciously golden and perfectly complements the sweet filling.
Can I use other fruits in hand pies?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on nectarines, you can easily swap them out for other fruits such as peaches, apples, or berries. Each fruit brings its unique flavor profile to the hand pie. Just be mindful of adjusting sugar levels based on the sweetness of your chosen fruit. Grilled Peach Caprese Salad Experimenting with different fillings allows you to create an array of delicious hand pies that suit any season or occasion.
How do I store leftover Nectarine Hand Pies?
To preserve your leftover nectarines hand pies, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature if consumed within two days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing for up to three months. If freezing, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion for Nectarine Hand Pies :
Nectarine hand pies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them a standout dessert choice. With their flaky crust and sweet nectarines filling, they are perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and customize, these pastries allow you to experiment with different fruits while maintaining their delicious essence. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or as a snack later on, these hand pies are sure to impress family and friends alike! For more inspiration, check out this baked apples recipe recipe.
Nectarine Hand Pies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Nectarine Hand Pies are a delightful summer treat that combines a flaky, buttery crust with sweet, juicy nectarines. Perfect for picnics, dessert tables, or a quick breakfast on the go, these hand pies are easy to make and customizable with your favorite spices or fruits. Each bite offers a taste of sunshine, making them an irresistible addition to any gathering. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a satisfying snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 6–8 tbsp ice water
- 3 cups fresh nectarines (sliced)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: Slice nectarines and mix with sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until coated.
- Roll Out Dough: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to an eighth-inch thickness. Cut into circles using a round cutter.
- Assemble Hand Pies: Place about one tablespoon of filling on half of each dough circle. Fold over and seal edges with a fork.
- Bake: Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush tops with egg wash, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie (80g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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