Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, merging nostalgic flavors with a flaky, buttery crust. These hand pies offer the same gooey chocolate, sweet marshmallows, and crunchy graham cracker goodness that we all love, but in a portable form that can be enjoyed anytime. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want to indulge in a delicious dessert, these hand pies are truly amazing. With their golden brown exterior and melty chocolate filling, they are bound to become a favorite among family and friends.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a flaky pastry, only to be greeted by the rich taste of chocolate and the sweet hint of marshmallow. Each bite transports you back to evenings spent around the fire, roasting marshmallows and chatting with loved ones. The combination of textures and flavors in these hand pies is not only satisfying but also evokes warm memories associated with summer nights.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to create these wonderful Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies, from preparation and cooking time to step-by-step instructions. With a little effort, you can bring this classic treat into your home kitchen, allowing you to share delicious moments with those you cherish. So, buckle up, and let’s dive into why these hand pies are a must-try recipe for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies take the beloved flavors of s’mores and present them in a fun, portable way. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
1. Nostalgic Flavors – It captures all the familiar tastes of traditional s’mores.
2. Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful treats.
3. Portable Treats – Perfect for picnics, family outings, or as a quick snack on the go.
4. Customizable Filling – Feel free to switch up the chocolate type or add different fillings to suit your taste.
5. Make Ahead – These pies can be prepared in advance, frozen, and baked fresh when needed.
6. Impressive Presentation – The golden, flaky crust makes them visually appealing, perfect for serving at gatherings.
With these factors in mind, there’s no doubt you’ll find your new favorite dessert recipe in these Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating the Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies requires about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which includes preparation and baking time. Here’s the breakdown:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
– Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
These time frames may vary slightly, especially depending on your kitchen equipment and experience level, but this guideline should help set your expectations.

Ingredients

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 6-8 tablespoons ice water
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup crushed graham crackers
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these steps to create your Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies:
1. Prep the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the diced butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the batter resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Do not overmix. Divide the dough into two halves, shape them into discs, and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepare Filling: In a bowl, combine the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers. Mix until well incorporated.
5. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.
6. Fill Hand Pies: Place a tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of each circle, leaving room around the edges. Avoid overfilling to prevent leakage.
7. Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with fingers, then crimp with a fork to seal securely.
8. Prepare for Baking: Beat the egg in a small bowl for an egg wash. Brush the tops of each hand pie with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
9. Bake: Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Cool: Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving.
By following these steps, you can create an impressive batch of Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies that are sure to delight everyone.

How to Serve

To elevate your serving experience with Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies, consider the following suggestions:
1. Garnish: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of your favorite ice cream to enhance flavors.
2. Presentation: Arrange the hand pies neatly on a platter, optionally dusting them with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
3. Pair with Beverages: These treats go well with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
4. Serving Size: Consider providing a variety of sizes, combining large and mini hand pies, for a fun dessert option at gatherings.
5. Warming Option: If not all eaten at once, you can warm them in the oven to slightly soften their crust before serving.
By adding thoughtful presentation and accompaniments, you can turn your Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies into a memorable experience for your guests.

Additional Tips

– Use High-Quality Chocolates: For a richer flavor, opt for high-quality chocolate chips or bars. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate yields the best results for these hand pies.
– Experiment with Spices: Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough can enhance the warmth and complexity of the flavor.
– Serve Warm: For the ultimate experience, serve the hand pies slightly warm, so the chocolate is gooey and the crust is fresh and flaky.
– Use a Pizza Cutter: When cutting dough, a pizza cutter can make the process swift and ensure clean edges.

Recipe Variation

Explore these fun variations to keep things interesting with your Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies:
1. Peanut Butter Delight: Add a layer of peanut butter along with the chocolate filling for a nutty twist.
2. Fruit Fusion: Incorporate fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or strawberries, for a refreshing contrast to the chocolate and marshmallow.
3. Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for added texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep the hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator.
– Freezing: You can freeze unbaked hand pies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Special Equipment

To make the process easier, consider these essential tools:
– Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough smoothly.
– Pastry Cutter or Fork: For mixing the butter into the flour effectively.
– Baking Sheet: Ensure you have enough space for all your hand pies.
– Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling out.
What can I substitute for butter if I want a dairy-free option?
You can use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of the unsalted butter for a dairy-free alternative while maintaining the dough’s consistency.
Can I bake these hand pies in an air fryer?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the time and temperature. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, monitoring closely to avoid burning.
How can I prevent the filling from leaking?
Ensure that you seal the edges properly by crimping with a fork, and avoid overfilling each pie to keep them from bursting during baking.

Conclusion

Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies are not just a delicious reinterpretation of a classic treat; they embody the emotions tied to cherished moments. Their golden, flaky crust encases a rich chocolate and marshmallow filling, reminding us of warm summer nights spent with friends and family. These hand pies are a fantastic dessert option for any occasion, easy to make and sure to impress. So, whether you’re enjoying them at a picnic or serving them at a party, the joy they bring is simply unmatched.

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