S’mores Hand Pies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves sweet snacks. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky crust filled with gooey chocolate, melty marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers. Today, I’ll guide you through an easy recipe that will turn your kitchen into a cozy campfire hangout. Let’s make these irresistible hand pies that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Equipment Needed
– Large mixing bowl
– Rolling pin
– Round cutter (4 inches)
– Parchment paper
For these S’mores hand pies, you need simple but key ingredients. The main items include flour, butter, chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers.
The flour creates the pie crust, while the chilled butter gives it a flaky texture. Chocolate chips add that rich, sweet flavor. Mini marshmallows bring that gooey, fun touch, and graham cracker crumbs add crunch.
You also need salt and sugar to enhance flavor. The egg wash gives a nice golden finish to the pies. If you want to be fancy, dust some powdered sugar on top before serving.
Gather your equipment to make the process smooth. A large mixing bowl helps combine your ingredients easily. The rolling pin helps shape the dough, while the round cutter makes perfect circles.
Make sure you have parchment paper ready to prevent sticking while baking. Having everything prepped sets you up for a fun cooking adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
– Make the Dough: In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Add 1 cup of chilled, diced butter. Use your fingers to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly add 4 to 6 tablespoons of ice water. Mix until the dough holds together.
– Wrap and Chill: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough stay firm and easy to work with.
Prepping for Baking
– Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the pies won’t stick.
– Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, split the dough in half. Roll out one half on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter, about 4 inches wide, to cut out circles. Repeat with the second half.
Assembling and Baking
– Assemble the Hand Pies: On one side of each circle, add about 1 teaspoon of graham cracker crumbs. Then, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chocolate chips and a few mini marshmallows on top. Leave a small border around the edge for sealing.
– Seal and Prepare for Baking: Dampen the edges of the dough with a bit of water. Fold the other half over the filling. Press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
– Bake and Cool: Beat 1 egg and brush it on the tops of the hand pies for a nice, golden color. Place the pies on the baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if you like.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
Ensure Ingredients Are Cold
Cold ingredients help form a flaky crust. Use chilled butter for the dough. Keep the ice water cold too. This step is key for texture.
Adjusting Dough Consistency
If the dough is too dry, add more ice water. Add it one tablespoon at a time. If it’s sticky, sprinkle flour on your surface. Keep kneading gently until it feels just right.
Filling Variations
Chocolate Types
You can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate. Dark chocolate adds a rich taste. Mix different types for fun flavors. Try white chocolate for a sweet twist.
Additional Flavors
Add peanut butter for a nutty kick. Use caramel for extra sweetness. You can even add a pinch of sea salt for balance. This makes each bite special.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Beverages
These hand pies go well with milk. Hot chocolate is a cozy choice too. For adults, pair with coffee or dessert wine. The flavors blend nicely.
Creative Plating Ideas
Serve the hand pies on a colorful plate. Dust with powdered sugar for a fancy touch. Arrange fresh fruit around them for color. This makes your dessert look even more inviting.
Variations
Flavor Variations
Peanut Butter S’mores Hand Pies
To make these pies even more fun, try adding peanut butter. You can spread a thin layer of creamy peanut butter on the dough before adding chocolate and marshmallows. The mix of sweet chocolate and salty peanut butter makes a dreamy treat. This twist packs a punch of flavor.
Fruit-Infused Versions
You can also bring in fruit flavors. Consider adding fresh sliced bananas or strawberries. Just place them on top of the chocolate and marshmallows. The fruit adds a fresh taste and a whole new texture. You will love this fruity take on a classic dessert.
Dietary Modifications
Gluten-Free Substitutions
If you need a gluten-free option, switch the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many blends work well in pie dough. Just make sure to check if it has xanthan gum. This ingredient helps mimic the texture of regular flour.
Vegan Options
Want a vegan version? You can replace the butter with a plant-based butter. Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg for the wash. Simply mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens, then brush it on before baking.
Mini or Large Hand Pies
Adjusting Bake Time
You can make mini or large hand pies based on your preference. For mini pies, use a smaller round cutter. They will bake faster, so check them after 15 minutes. Larger pies will take closer to 25 minutes, so keep an eye on them for that golden-brown look.
Serving Sizes
Making mini hand pies is a fun way to serve a crowd. They are great for parties and easy to share. If you choose large ones, they make a satisfying dessert for one. No matter the size, everyone will enjoy these tasty treats!
Storage Info
Storing Hand Pies
Room Temperature Storage
You can store S’mores hand pies at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about two days. Keep them away from heat and direct sunlight. This way, they stay soft and tasty.
Refrigeration Tips
If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the hand pies. Wrap each pie in plastic wrap or foil. This keeps them from drying out. They can last up to a week in the fridge. When ready to eat, just warm them up!
Freezing Instructions
Preparing for Freezing
To freeze your S’mores hand pies, allow them to cool completely first. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months.
Reheating After Freezing
When you are ready to eat your frozen hand pies, take them out. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This helps keep the crust crispy.
Shelf Life
How Long They Last
S’mores hand pies can last a few days at room temperature. In the fridge, they can last about a week. When frozen, they can stay good for up to three months.
Signs of Spoilage
Check for any off smells or mold. If the pies feel hard or dry, they are likely spoiled. Always trust your senses! If something seems off, it is best to throw them away.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough. It saves time and works well. Just choose a good quality pie dough. Roll it out and cut it into circles as you would with homemade dough. This makes the process quicker, especially for busy days.
How do I make them crispy?
To make your hand pies crispy, keep your dough cold. Use chilled butter and ice water when making the dough. Also, brush the tops with egg wash. This adds a nice golden color and crispness when baked. Bake them until they are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them ahead. Assemble the hand pies and keep them in the fridge for a day. Alternatively, freeze them after sealing. When ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
What is the best way to reheat hand pies?
To reheat hand pies, use an oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy while warming the filling.
Can I customize the fillings further?
Absolutely! You can add different fillings. Try using peanut butter or different chocolate types. You can also mix in nuts or fruits. Get creative and make a flavor you love!
You now know how to make delicious hand pies from scratch. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for perfecting your dough. You can get creative with flavors and adjust recipes to fit your needs. Remember, you can store or freeze these treats for later enjoyment. By following these steps, you’ll impress friends and family with your tasty creations. Enjoy your time baking and savor every bite!
