On a chilly December afternoon, I found myself in the kitchen, dreaming up a whimsical treat that could bring smiles to family gatherings. Enter these Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies! Perfectly festive and fun, these delightful pastries combine sweet and tart strawberry filling with a flaky, golden crust—all thanks to a handy store-bought pie crust. So, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply want to brighten up a winter day, these quick-to-make treats are a sure way to spread cheer and deliciousness in under 40 minutes. Plus, they’re family-friendly, so everyone can join in on the fun of shaping and decorating their own little trees. Who wouldn’t want to bite into a piece of pastry joy this season? Ready to dive into the world of holiday baking?
Why Are These Hand Pies So Special?
Joyful Experience: These Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies offer a delightful way to engage the whole family in the kitchen during the holidays.
Quick Preparation: Made from store-bought crust, you can whip them up in under 40 minutes—perfect for those busy holiday schedules.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet strawberry filling and flaky pastry delivers a festive treat that’s as delicious as it is charming.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings or add cream cheese for a richer flavor.
Appeal to All Ages: They make for a fantastic dessert or snack, sure to please both kids and adults alike. Why not pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence? Don’t miss out on adding some creativity to your holiday gatherings with these delightful goodies!
Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pie Ingredients
• • Get ready to bake these festive delights!
For the Hand Pies
- 9-inch Store-bought Pie Crust – Provides a flaky structure for the hand pies; you can use homemade crust if you prefer.
- Lucky Leaf Premium Strawberry Pie Filling – Adds convenient sweetness and fruitiness, but feel free to use any brand of fruit filling if you wish.
- Large Egg (for egg wash) – Helps seal the pie crust edges and gives a glossy finish; mix with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Water (1 tablespoon) – Necessary for mixing with the beaten egg in the egg wash; no substitutions needed.
For Decoration (Optional)
- Coarse Sugar/Turbinado Sugar – Adds a sweet crunch and decorative touch; sprinkles can serve as a fun alternative.
- Powdered Sugar (1 ¼ cup) – Used for glazing; can be substituted with a sugar alternative if desired.
- Milk of Choice/Heavy Cream (2 tablespoons) – Creates a smooth glaze, and any milk will work just fine.
These Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies are a delightful way to spread joy this holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, thaw the store-bought pie crust according to the package instructions. Once ready, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the hand pies from sticking, setting the stage for your Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies to shine.
Step 2: Make Egg Wash
In a small bowl, combine one large egg with one tablespoon of water, whisking until it’s well blended. This egg wash will help seal the edges of your hand pies and create a beautiful golden finish. Keep your egg wash handy as you’ll be using it to brush over the dough later.
Step 3: Roll Out Dough
Gently roll out one thawed pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it reaches about ¼ to ⅜ inch thick. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect flaky texture in your Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies. Aim for an even thickness to ensure the crust bakes evenly, giving you that lovely golden color.
Step 4: Cut Shapes
Using a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter, cut out 6 to 7 tree shapes from the rolled-out pie crust. Remember to reserve any scraps for later use—these can be re-rolled to create additional shapes or mini pies. The festive tree shapes will make your hand pies even more delightful for the holiday season.
Step 5: Assemble Pies
Take half of the tree cutouts and brush the edges lightly with the prepared egg wash. Place about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of Lucky Leaf Premium Strawberry Pie Filling in the center of each cutout. Cover each with another tree-shaped piece of dough, pressing the edges together firmly before crimping them with a fork. This secures the filling for your lovely Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies.
Step 6: Cut Air Slits
To allow steam to escape while baking, make three small slits in the top of each hand pie using a sharp knife. This step not only prevents the filling from overflowing but also adds a charming touch. After cutting, brush the tops with the remaining egg wash, and if desired, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for a delightful crunch.
Step 7: Bake
Carefully place your assembled hand pies onto the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and bubbling filling, which indicates they are done. The enticing aroma of baking strawberry hand pies will fill your kitchen!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. For an extra touch of sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle this glaze over the hand pies, allowing the festive look and delightful taste of your Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies to shine bright.
Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies
- Uniform Thickness: Ensure the pie crust is rolled out evenly to avoid uneven baking or breaks. Aim for ¼ to ⅜ inch thickness.
- Avoid Overfilling: Use 1-1.5 tablespoons of filling per pie; overfilling may cause the filling to ooze out during baking.
- Seal Properly: Press the edges firmly before crimping to secure the filling and prevent leakage during baking.
- Quick Sugar Sprinkle: If using coarse sugar, sprinkle it on top right after brushing with the egg wash, before it dries.
- Cooling Time: Allow the hand pies to cool for a few minutes after baking for easier glazing and to set the filling inside.
Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful hand pies, making them even more special for your festive gatherings!
- Different Fruits: Swap the strawberry filling for raspberry, blueberry, or even cherry for a fruity twist. Each filling can bring its unique flavors and memories to your holiday table.
- Creamy Add-In: Add a dollop of cream cheese to the filling for a rich and luscious taste that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of fruit.
- Spicy Kick: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the strawberry filling for a warm, spiced flavor that evokes cozy holiday vibes.
- Whipped Topping: Serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. It’s the perfect complement to the fruity filling!
- Festive Icing: Drizzle some colorful icing over the cooled hand pies for extra sweetness and a festive touch that the kids will love. The added colors can bring some holiday cheer to the dessert table.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crusts to ensure everyone can enjoy these treats without worry. They’ll be just as tasty with a little adjustment!
- Healthy Swap: Try using a healthier fruit filling or homemade compote for a lower-sugar option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Homemade fillings can often bring a fresh, natural sweetness that’s hard to resist.
- Mini Versions: Cut out smaller tree shapes for bite-sized treats that can be enjoyed without the fuss. Perfect for holiday parties and gatherings!
For more festive delights, you might enjoy making some Homemade Strawberry Lemon treats or explore creative candy ideas like Fun Christmas Candy. Whatever your choice, you’re sure to spread holiday joy!
What to Serve with Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies
Delight your family and friends with a festive meal that effortlessly complements these charming strawberry-filled treats.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich and cool contrast to the warm, flaky hand pies. The combination is comfortingly indulgent.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top provides a fluffy texture that enhances the sweet, fruity flavor of the hand pies, making each bite feel like a celebration.
- Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm cup of hot cocoa, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon, to match the festive spirit. The chocolatey richness is a perfect fit for the fruity pastries, elevating the holiday experience.
- Christmas Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad, featuring seasonal fruits like pomegranates and apples, adds a pop of color and a healthy balance to the dessert spread. The freshness complements the sweetness of the pies.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea offers a delightful pairing, perfect for adults looking to savor the holiday flavor while enjoying a moment of bliss alongside the hand pies.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Set a cheerful tone with gingerbread cookies on the side; their spiced flavors harmonize beautifully with the sweet strawberry filling in the hand pies.
- Sparkling Cider: Celebrate with a glass of sparkling cider to toast the season! The fizzy sweetness enhances the festive mood and pairs well with the delightful sweetness of the hand pies.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a fun dessert station with toppings like sprinkles and chocolate sauce to allow guests to get creative, making this a delightful experience for families and kids alike!
Storage Tips for Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Store hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you expect to keep them longer, place the pies in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 5 days. Just ensure they’re well-covered to avoid drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped hand pies in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies are perfect for making ahead, saving you valuable time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the hand pies up to 24 hours in advance by assembling them, sealing each pie, and then refrigerating them on a lined baking sheet. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, simply brush them with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar before popping them into a preheated oven for baking. This method ensures they maintain their delightful flaky texture and delicious strawberry filling. For even greater convenience, consider freezing the assembled hand pies for up to 3 months; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for effortless enjoyment!
Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe strawberries for the filling?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are bright red, firm, and sweet-smelling. Avoid any with dark spots or bruises, as this indicates overripeness. If you’re using store-bought pie filling, you can skip this step, but always check the expiration date to ensure freshness.
What is the best way to store leftover hand pies?
You can store your Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about 5 days, ensuring they’re well-covered to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze these hand pies?
Very! To freeze, wrap each hand pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warm and crispy.
What if my pie crust breaks while rolling?
No worries! If your crust tears, simply moisten the area slightly with water and press it back together. You can also patch it with scraps of dough. Ensure that you’re rolling it evenly at about ¼ to ⅜ inch thick to avoid cracks.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains eggs and may contain gluten due to the pie crust. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust. Always check the labels on any pre-made fillings for potential allergens, especially if serving others.
Delicious Christmas Tree Strawberry Hand Pies in 40 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine one large egg with one tablespoon of water, whisking until well blended.
- Roll out the thawed pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it reaches about ¼ to ⅜ inch thick.
- Using a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter, cut out 6 to 7 tree shapes from the rolled-out pie crust.
- Brush the edges lightly with the prepared egg wash and place about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of Strawberry Pie Filling in the center.
- Cover each with another tree-shaped piece of dough, pressing the edges together and crimping with a fork.
- Make three small slits in the top of each hand pie for steam to escape and brush the tops with remaining egg wash.
- Bake the assembled hand pies in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Once baked, allow to cool for about 5 minutes and then whisk together powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze.
