Peach Ginger Hand Pies: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Peach Ginger Hand Pies: Is there anything that screams summer quite like biting into a warm, flaky pastry filled with juicy, sweet peaches? I think not! These delightful little pockets of sunshine are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, making them the perfect treat for a weekend baking project or a last-minute dessert for company.

Hand pies, in general, have a rich history, dating back to medieval times when they were a practical way to transport and preserve food. While the fillings have evolved over the centuries, the concept remains the same: a portable, self-contained delight. The addition of ginger to these Peach Ginger Hand Pies elevates them to a whole new level, adding a warm, spicy note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the peaches.

People adore hand pies for their convenience and comforting nature. They’re perfectly portioned, easy to eat on the go, and offer a satisfying combination of textures – the crisp, buttery crust giving way to a soft, flavorful filling. The combination of sweet peaches and zesty ginger creates a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these Peach Ginger Hand Pies are sure to become a new favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into ½-inch cubes
• ½ cup vegetable shortening, very cold
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water
• For the Peach Ginger Filling:
• 6 medium ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• For the Egg Wash:
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon milk or water
• For the Sugar Topping:
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Preparing the Dough

Okay, let’s start with the crust. This is the foundation of our delicious hand pies, so we want to get it right. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think!

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. Cut in the Butter and Shortening: Add the cold butter and shortening to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (work quickly to keep the butter cold!), cut the butter and shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see some pea-sized pieces of butter – these are what create those flaky layers we all love.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix! You want just enough water to bring the dough together. The dough should be slightly shaggy but not sticky.
4. Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently gather it into a ball. If the dough seems too dry, add a tiny bit more ice water, but be very sparing.
5. Divide and Chill: Divide the dough in half. Flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2 hours. This chilling time is crucial! It allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and preventing it from shrinking during baking.

Making the Peach Ginger Filling

While the dough is chilling, let’s whip up that amazing peach ginger filling. The combination of sweet peaches and spicy ginger is just heavenly!

1. Prepare the Peaches: In a large bowl, combine the diced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, grated ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Mix Gently: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the peaches are evenly coated. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it bakes, and the lemon juice will brighten the flavors.
3. Let it Sit: Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the peaches to release some of their juices, which will create a more flavorful and saucy filling.

Assembling the Hand Pies

Now for the fun part – putting everything together! Get ready to create some beautiful and delicious hand pies.

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the hand pies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ?-inch thickness. Use a 4-inch round cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out circles. Re-roll the scraps to get as many circles as possible.
3. Fill the Pies: Place about 2 tablespoons of the peach ginger filling in the center of each circle, leaving a small border around the edge. Don’t overfill them, or the filling will leak out during baking.
4. Seal the Edges: Moisten the edges of the dough with a little water. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure a tight seal.
5. Repeat: Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
6. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water) to create an egg wash.
7. Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen.
8. Sprinkle with Sugar: Sprinkle the tops of the hand pies with granulated sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and a lovely sparkle.
9. Cut Vents: Cut a few small slits in the top of each hand pie to allow steam to escape during baking. This will prevent the pies from bursting.

Baking the Hand Pies

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake these beauties until they’re golden brown and bubbly.

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
2. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the hand pies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage

These peach ginger hand pies are best served warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a midday snack. You can enjoy them as is, or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-special treat.

To store, keep the hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or microwave them for a quick and easy snack.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Peach Ginger Hand Pies are more than just a dessert; they’re a little pocket of sunshine, bursting with the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe peaches and the warm, comforting spice of ginger. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a homemade treat, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out. The flaky, buttery crust combined with the delectable filling is a match made in heaven, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is simply irresistible.

But what makes these hand pies truly special is their versatility. While they’re absolutely divine served warm, straight from the oven, they’re equally delicious at room temperature. Imagine enjoying one with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm summer evening, or packing them in a picnic basket for a delightful outdoor treat.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your serving suggestions! A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a drizzle of honey or maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches. For a more decadent experience, try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of mascarpone cheese.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are endless variations you can explore. Substitute the peaches with other fruits like apples, blueberries, or raspberries. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warmer, spicier flavor. Or, for a truly unique twist, try incorporating a hint of almond extract or lemon zest.

For a vegan option, use a vegan butter substitute in the crust and ensure your sugar is processed without bone char. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or gluten-free blends, to cater to dietary restrictions.

These hand pies are also incredibly customizable in terms of size and shape. You can make them small and bite-sized for parties, or larger and more substantial for a satisfying dessert. Use cookie cutters to create fun and festive shapes, or simply fold them into triangles or squares.

Why You Should Make These Peach Ginger Hand Pies:

I know there are countless recipes out there, but I truly believe these Peach Ginger Hand Pies stand out from the crowd. They’re relatively easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver maximum flavor. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

But beyond the delicious taste and ease of preparation, these hand pies offer something more: a connection to the simple pleasures of life. The act of baking, of creating something from scratch, is incredibly rewarding. And the joy of sharing that creation with loved ones is even more so.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure. I promise you won’t regret it.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of these Peach Ginger Hand Pies for yourself. Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below! I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Happy baking! Let me know how your Peach Ginger Hand Pies turn out!