Cranberry Hand Pies: 12 Delightful Sweet Treats to Make

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Cranberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that I love to make, especially during the holiday season. These delectable pastries are filled with tart cranberries and a hint of orange, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these hand pies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to create these scrumptious desserts that are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Hand Pies

These Cranberry Hand Pies are not just delicious; they come with numerous benefits. First, they are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Second, the combination of cranberries and orange zest brings a refreshing flavor that is perfect for any occasion. Third, you can easily customize them with different fillings, making them a favorite for everyone. Fourth, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, serving as a festive dessert option. Fifth, these hand pies can also be made vegan, catering to various dietary preferences. Finally, they are an excellent way to use fresh cranberries during the season, ensuring you make the most of their vibrant flavor. These treats embody the spirit of American cuisine and are sure to become a staple in your home.

Ingredients for Cranberry Hand Pies

Gather these items:

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon (14g) baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup (199g) granulated sugar
1/3 cup (71g) light brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon orange zest, finely grated
3 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon orange extract (optional)
1 cup (227g) full-fat sour cream, room temperature
1/3 cup (76ml) orange juice
2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen; if using frozen, do NOT thaw
For the Orange Glaze (Optional):
1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice, more if needed
1 teaspoon orange zest, finely grated

How to Make Cranberry Hand Pies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees (F). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners and spray lightly with non-stick baking spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom; set aside.
Step 3: In a separate large bowl using a handheld electric mixer, or in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter, sugars, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange extract. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 5: In a measuring cup, whisk together the sour cream and orange juice, then alternate adding this mixture and the flour mixture into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Do not over mix.
Step 6: Fold the cranberries into the batter.
Step 7: Divide the batter evenly among prepared muffin tins.
Step 8: Bake for 25 to 27 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool muffins in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 9: For the Orange Glaze: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. Whisk until smooth, adding more juice as needed. Drizzle over muffins before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cranberry Hand Pies

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a flaky texture.
Don’t over mix the batter to maintain a soft and airy consistency.
For a more pronounced cranberry flavor, consider adding a splash of cranberry juice to the filling.
These pies can be made ahead of time and frozen; simply bake them straight from the freezer.
Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Hand Pies

These delightful hand pies are perfect for various occasions. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. They also pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a cranberry sauce or a sweet citrus glaze for a festive touch.

Cranberry Hand Pies: 12 Delightful Sweet Treats to Make - Cranberry Hand Pies - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Hand Pies

To store your Cranberry Hand Pies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees (F) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy their flaky crust and sweet filling anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Hand Pies

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Hand Pies?

The secret to perfect Cranberry Hand Pies lies in using fresh cranberries and ensuring your dough is properly chilled. This helps achieve a flaky texture, making each bite delightful.

Can I make Cranberry Hand Pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Cranberry Hand Pies ahead of time and freeze them. Bake them directly from the freezer when you’re ready, and they will taste fresh and delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Hand Pies?

To avoid mistakes, ensure not to overmix your dough and use cold butter for a flaky texture. Additionally, don’t forget to let them cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavors.

Variations of Cranberry Hand Pies You Can Try

There are numerous ways to enjoy Cranberry Hand Pies. You can make mini cranberry pies for bite-sized treats or add a cream cheese filling for a rich twist. For a holiday flair, consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger to the filling. Lastly, try using a vegan butter substitute to create vegan cranberry hand pies that everyone can enjoy!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cranberry Custard Pie or Gingerbread Tiramisu. If you’re looking for a unique twist, try our Cranberry Orange Chicken recipe!