Strawberry hand pies are delightful, individual-sized treats filled with sweet strawberry filling and encased in a golden, flaky crust. Perfect for summer picnics, casual gatherings, or a quick dessert fix, these mini pies are easy to love and even easier to eat on the go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These strawberry hand pies are not only adorable and fun to make, but they’re also packed with real fruit flavor and have a wonderful buttery crust. They’re a great alternative to traditional full-sized pies and ideal for portion control. Whether you use fresh or frozen strawberries, the result is always irresistibly tasty. Plus, they freeze well and make for a perfect make-ahead dessert.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pie dough (homemade or store-bought)
Fresh or frozen strawberries
Granulated sugar
Cornstarch
Lemon juice
Vanilla extract
Egg (for egg wash)
Coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook until thickened, then allow to cool.
Roll out the pie dough and cut into equal-sized rounds or rectangles.
Spoon a small amount of the cooled strawberry filling into the center of half of the dough pieces.
Place the remaining dough pieces on top and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if using.
Cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 hand pies, depending on the size of your dough cutouts.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use mixed berries for a more complex fruit flavor.
Add a touch of cinnamon to the filling for warmth.
Try using puff pastry for a lighter, flakier texture.
Add cream cheese to the filling for a strawberry cheesecake vibe.
Use a glaze of powdered sugar and milk on top instead of coarse sugar.

storage/reheating

Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the crust soggy.
You can also freeze baked hand pies for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking to prevent a watery filling.

Do I need to cook the filling first?

Yes, cooking helps thicken the filling and prevents sogginess in the crust.

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them unbaked or baked and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the edges well and don’t overfill each pie. Also, use an egg wash to help the crust stick.

Can I use store-bought pie dough?

Yes, store-bought dough works great and saves time.

What other fruits can I use?

Blueberries, cherries, apples, or peaches are all delicious alternatives.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free pie crust and check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add spices or herbs?

Sure! Try adding a hint of basil or mint for a twist, or a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough before using?

If using homemade dough, chilling helps it roll out better and bake flakier. For store-bought, just follow package instructions.

What’s the best way to seal the edges?

Press firmly with a fork and use a bit of egg wash to help them stick together.

Conclusion

Strawberry hand pies are a simple yet satisfying dessert that combines classic flavors with modern convenience. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just craving a fruity treat, these pies are a versatile, crowd-pleasing option. Try them once, and they might just become a go-to dessert in your home!