Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies
There’s something truly nostalgic about the sweet aroma of baking Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies wafting through the kitchen. Growing up, my grandmother would often make these delightful treats during the summer, filling our home with the scent of fresh blueberries and flaky crust. I remember standing on a stool, peering over the counter as she rolled out the dough, her hands deftly crafting little pockets of joy. Now, I find myself recreating that same magic for my kids, eagerly watching their faces light up with each bite of warm, gooey blueberry goodness. These hand pies are perfect for summer picnics, cozy family gatherings, or even a simple afternoon snack. With the convenience of the air fryer, I can whip up a batch in no time, making our moments together even sweeter.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
20 mins
10 mins
Medium
220 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Skillet, Whisk, Air Fryer, Mixing Bowl
Why This Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies Shines
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best things about these Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies is how quickly they come together. The use of store-bought pie crusts saves time, allowing you to focus on the delicious blueberry filling. You can have these delightful treats ready in no time, making them perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or when that sweet craving strikes!
Perfectly Crispy Exterior
The air fryer gives these hand pies a crispy, golden-brown exterior that’s just too good to resist. Unlike traditional frying, the air fryer uses hot air circulation, which means you can enjoy the same delicious flavor and texture without the excess oil. This makes them a lighter option compared to deep-fried desserts, so you can indulge without the guilt!
Customizable Filling
While blueberry is a classic choice, the filling can easily be customized to suit your taste. You can substitute with other fruits like cherries, raspberries, or even a mix! This versatility makes these pies perfect for any season or occasion, whether you’re using fresh summer berries or warming up with comforting apple during the fall.
Fun for the Whole Family
Preparing Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies is an excellent activity for the family. Kids love to get involved in the kitchen, and creating these hand pies is a fun way to teach them about cooking. You can let them help roll out the dough, fill the pies, and crimp the edges. It’s a great bonding experience that will create lasting memories.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or just having a quiet night in, these hand pies are an excellent dessert option. They’re easy to make in large batches, and everyone will love having their own little pie to enjoy. Plus, they can be served warm or at room temperature, making them convenient for any gathering.
Deliciously Messy
Let’s be honest—part of the joy of eating a hand pie is the delightful mess it can create! Each bite releases the warm blueberry filling, and that sticky, sweet goodness is part of the experience. Don’t worry about being too neat; embrace the messy joy that comes with indulging in these Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies.
Ingredients Overview for Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies
When it comes to making Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies, the choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The combination of flaky crust and sweet blueberry filling creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist. Let’s explore the key components that make these hand pies so irresistible.
- 2 refrigerator pie crusts – These ready-made crusts save time and ensure a flaky texture.
- 1 1/2 cups blueberry pie filling – This is the star ingredient, bringing vibrant flavor and sweetness.
- 1 large egg – Used for egg wash to achieve a beautiful golden color.
- 1 tablespoon water – Helps to create the egg wash mixture.
- 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar – Added on top for a sweet crunch.
- Olive oil cooking spray – Ensures that the pies don’t stick and promotes even browning.
How to Assemble Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies
Making Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies is a simple and enjoyable process. Follow these steps to create a batch of delicious, crispy pies that are perfect for sharing (or not!).
- First, if the pie crusts are frozen, thaw them per the directions on the package. This ensures they are pliable and easy to work with.
- Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface, ensuring it doesn’t stick. Using a cookie cutter, cut out three 5-inch circles from each crust and discard the scraps.
- Add two tablespoons of blueberry pie filling to the center of each circle, leaving about a half-inch border. This ensures the filling doesn’t overflow while cooking.
- Next, dip a fingertip into water and run it around the edges of the circles. This helps the crust stick together when folded.
- Fold the crust over the filling to create a half-moon shape and gently pinch the edges together. Take a fork and crimp the edges to seal them securely.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with the water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture all over the tops of the pies for that beautiful golden finish.
- Sprinkle the tops of the pies with sugar, adding a little crunch and sweetness. Don’t forget to make three small incision cuts on the top to allow steam to escape.
- Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F. This ensures that the pies cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Spray the basket with olive oil cooking spray. Arrange the pies in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook these in batches.
- Air fry for 8 to 9 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they cook to avoid burning.
Things Worth Knowing
Things Worth Knowing
- Thawing the crust: If using frozen pie crusts, ensure they are completely thawed to achieve the best texture.
- Filling amount: I usually use two tablespoons of filling, which is the perfect amount to prevent spills while cooking.
- Batch cooking: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook these in a couple of rounds to allow proper air circulation.
- Using scraps: If you have any pie crust scraps, roll them into smaller pies for your kids; they love the extra minis!
Making Adjustments
When it comes to perfecting your Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies, there are several adjustments you can make to cater to your preferences. Here are some handy tips to consider:
- Storage: Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore their crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked hand pies for up to three months. When ready to bake, air fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Flavor variations: Experiment with different fillings like cherry, apple, or even chocolate for a unique twist!
- Serving suggestions: Serve these pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the blueberry filling for an aromatic twist.
Side Dish Ideas for Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies
When it comes to serving Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies, you have a plethora of delightful options to enhance your meal experience. Here are some side dishes and serving suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the pies perfectly.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm hand pies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to your pies.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For those who enjoy a chocolatey twist, a warm chocolate sauce makes a delightful dipping option.
- Perfect for Picnics: These hand pies are easy to pack for picnics or road trips—just wrap them up and enjoy them on the go!
- Occasions: Whether it’s a summer barbecue, birthday party, or afternoon tea, these hand pies fit right in!
FAQ
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines nostalgia with convenience. They’re sweet, crispy, and packed with flavor, making them a favorite at any gathering. I encourage you to try making them and share the deliciousness with your friends and family. You won’t regret it!
Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First, if the pie crusts are frozen, thaw them per the directions on the package. This ensures they are pliable and easy to work with.
- Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface, ensuring it doesn’t stick. Using a cookie cutter, cut out three 5-inch circles from each crust and discard the scraps.
- Add two tablespoons of blueberry pie filling to the center of each circle, leaving about a half-inch border. This ensures the filling doesn’t overflow while cooking.
- Next, dip a fingertip into water and run it around the edges of the circles. This helps the crust stick together when folded.
- Fold the crust over the filling to create a half-moon shape and gently pinch the edges together. Take a fork and crimp the edges to seal them securely.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with the water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture all over the tops of the pies for that beautiful golden finish.
- Sprinkle the tops of the pies with sugar, adding a little crunch and sweetness. Don’t forget to make three small incision cuts on the top to allow steam to escape.
- Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F. This ensures that the pies cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Spray the basket with olive oil cooking spray. Arrange the pies in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook these in batches.
- Air fry for 8 to 9 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they cook to avoid burning.
