Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies: A Quick and Delicious Dessert

Looking for a simple yet delicious dessert that you can whip up in no time? Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect solution! These mini, flaky pies are filled with sweet cherry pie filling, then air fried to golden perfection, creating a warm and crispy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a quick cook time, they’re an ideal choice for satisfying your sweet tooth with a twist of convenience.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making these cherry hand pies in an air fryer. We’ll also share some advanced tips for perfecting your pies, storage instructions, and potential dietary adaptations so you can enjoy this treat no matter your preferences.

For more great air fryer recipes, check out these 12 easy dessert ideas. For more information on how to use your air fryer for other dishes, visit Air Fryer 101: Tips and Tricks.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions for Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies

Making Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies is incredibly easy, and the result is an irresistibly crispy and fruity dessert that you’ll love. Let’s walk through the essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies: Quick, Crispy, and Delicious

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 18-20 minutes
• Yield: 8 hand pies 1x
• Diet: Diabetic

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Description

These Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies are the perfect combination of sweet and flaky, with a delicious cherry filling tucked inside a golden, crispy crust. Made with refrigerated pie crusts and cherry pie filling, these hand pies are quick and easy to prepare, and the air fryer makes them extra crispy with a fraction of the oil. Topped with a simple glaze, they’re a treat you’ll want to make again and again.

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Ingredients

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For the Hand Pies:

• 21 oz can cherry pie filling

• 2 refrigerated pie crusts (store-bought)

• Water (for sealing the crusts)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1–3 tbsp whole milk (add until desired consistency is reached)

• 1½ tbsp corn syrup

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crusts:

   • Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a clean, flat surface. Using a round cutter or a bowl, cut the dough into circles (about 4-5 inches in diameter). You should get about 8 circles from the two pie crusts.

2. Fill the Pies:

   • Place a spoonful of cherry pie filling in the center of each pie crust circle. Be sure not to overfill to avoid spilling when sealing.

   • Wet the edges of the dough with a little water and fold the crust over to form a half-moon shape, sealing the edges by pinching the dough together with your fingers or using a fork to crimp the edges.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes while you finish assembling the hand pies.

4. Cook the Hand Pies:

   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.

   • Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

   • Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and crispy. Check halfway through and flip the pies if necessary for even cooking.

5. Make the Glaze:

   • While the pies are cooking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar, milk, and corn syrup in a small bowl. Stir until smooth. Add more milk a little at a time to reach your desired consistency (you want the glaze to be thick but pourable).

6. Glaze the Hand Pies:

   • Once the hand pies are done, let them cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over the top. Use a spoon or drizzle directly from the bowl for a nice, even layer.

7. Serve:

   • Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving your delicious Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies!

Notes

You can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like apple, blueberry, or strawberry for a different flavor.

For an extra crispy crust, lightly brush the hand pies with a bit of melted butter before air frying.

If you don’t have a round cutter, you can also use a cup or simply freehand the shapes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Snack
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 hand pie
• Calories: 230 kcal
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 115mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies Recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crusts:

1. Begin by unrolling the refrigerated pie crusts onto a clean, flat surface.
2. Using a round cutter, such as a cup or a cookie cutter, cut out 4-inch rounds from the pie crusts. You should be able to make 8-10 rounds, depending on the size of your cutter.
3. Lay half of the rounds on a parchment-lined surface to form the base of the hand pies.

2. Fill the Pies:

1. Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling onto the center of each pie crust round. Be sure not to overfill to prevent any leaks while cooking.
2. Using a small amount of water, lightly moisten the edges of the pie crusts to help seal them.

3. Seal and Shape the Hand Pies:

1. Place a second pie crust round on top of the filling.
2. Press the edges together with a fork to seal them securely. You can also pinch the edges with your fingers for a more rustic look.
3. Use a knife to make a few small slits on top of each hand pie to allow steam to escape while cooking.

4. Air Fry the Hand Pies:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Air fry the pies for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, as air fryers can vary.

5. Glaze the Hand Pies:

1. While the hand pies are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and corn syrup to make the glaze. Add the milk a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled hand pies for an extra sweet touch.

Advanced Techniques for Perfect Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few advanced tips to ensure your hand pies turn out perfectly every time:

1. Make Your Own Pie Crust:

For an even more homemade touch, you can make your own pie crust instead of using store-bought. Homemade crust will add a fresh, flaky texture and richer flavor. Use your favorite recipe or find one online.

2. Ensure Proper Sealing:

When sealing the hand pies, make sure the edges are pinched tightly to prevent the cherry filling from spilling out during cooking. If you’re worried about leakage, you can crimp the edges more securely with a fork or use an egg wash to seal them.

3. Adjust Cook Time Based on Air Fryer Model:

Different air fryers have different heat distribution, so keep an eye on your pies the first time you make them. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the temperature by 5-10 degrees.

4. Add More Filling Variations:

Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings, such as blueberry, strawberry, or apple, for a variety of flavors. Just be sure to use a thicker fruit filling to prevent leaks.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips for Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies

Once you’ve made these delicious Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh and crispy.

Storage:

• Room Temperature: These hand pies are best enjoyed within a few hours of making them while they are still warm and crispy. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: If you prefer to store them for longer, keep the hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Freezing:

For longer storage, you can freeze these hand pies. Place the unglazed hand pies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 1-2 hours. After they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, air fry the frozen pies directly for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Reheating:

To reheat, place the pies back in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C), or until they’re warm and crisp again. If you’ve stored them in the fridge, this will bring back their fresh-baked texture.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions for Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, these Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies can be easily adapted:

Gluten-Free:

You can make these hand pies gluten-free by using gluten-free pie crusts. There are many pre-made gluten-free pie crusts available, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour blends.

Dairy-Free:

To make these hand pies dairy-free, swap the butter in the pie crust with a dairy-free butter substitute, and use a plant-based milk (like almond or coconut milk) for the glaze.

Low Sugar:

For a lower-sugar version, use sugar-free cherry pie filling and adjust the glaze with a sugar substitute. You can use stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of powdered sugar for a healthier option.

Vegan:

For a vegan version, use dairy-free pie crusts and a plant-based milk option for the glaze. Make sure to check the label of your pie filling, as some may contain gelatin or other animal products.

FAQs About Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the hand pies ahead of time and freeze them before cooking. When ready, just pop them in the air fryer and cook from frozen.

How can I make these hand pies more crispy?

If you want extra crispiness, lightly brush the tops of the pies with an egg wash or butter before air frying.

What other fillings can I use in place of cherry pie filling?

These hand pies are versatile! You can substitute the cherry filling with other fruit pie fillings like blueberry, apple, or even chocolate for a fun twist.

Can I bake these in a regular oven?

Yes, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Cherry Hand Pies are a quick and delicious treat that you can make in no time with minimal ingredients. They’re the perfect dessert for anyone who loves fruit-filled pastries but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With their crispy exterior and gooey cherry filling, they’re sure to be a hit at any occasion.

Whether you make them for a family dessert or a gathering, these hand pies are sure to impress. Give them a try and enjoy the delightful taste of air-fried goodness!