Name: Blueberry Air Fryer Hand Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 6 tablespoons very cold, cubed butter; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; 3-4 tablespoons ice water; 1 cup blueberries; 2 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; 2 teaspoons lemon zest (optional); 1 tablespoon water; Coarse sugar (optional for topping)

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Blueberry Air Fryer Hand Pies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor and nostalgia to every bite. These golden, flaky pastries are filled with juicy blueberries, making them the perfect dessert or snack for any occasion. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer means you can enjoy a crispy crust without deep frying, making them a healthier option. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply craving something sweet, these hand pies are sure to impress.

Top Reasons to Make Blueberry Air Fryer Hand Pies

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these hand pies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Healthier Option: Air frying allows you to enjoy that crispy texture without the excess oil from traditional frying.
Versatile Filling: While blueberry is a classic choice, you can easily customize the filling with other fruits or flavors.
Perfect for Sharing: These hand pies are easy to serve and make a great addition to any gathering.
Quick Cooking Time: The air fryer cooks these pies in a fraction of the time it takes to bake in a conventional oven.

Ingredient Checklist

1 cup all-purpose flour
6 tablespoons very cold, cubed butter
2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
3-4 tablespoons ice water
1 cup blueberries
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
2 teaspoons lemon zest, optional
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
Coarse sugar, optional for topping

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Air Fryer: The key appliance for making these perfectly cooked hand pies.
Mixing Bowl: For combining your dough ingredients.
Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough to the right thickness.
Cookie Cutter or Glass: To cut out your pie shapes.
Baking Brush: For applying the egg wash for that golden finish.

How to Prepare Blueberry Air Fryer Hand Pies

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and sea salt. Add the cubed, very cold butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 2: Add Ice Water

Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough comes together. You may need 3 to 4 tablespoons, depending on the humidity and temperature.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps to keep the butter cold, resulting in a flakier crust.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. If using, add the lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. Gently toss to coat the blueberries evenly.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles of dough, about 4 to 5 inches in diameter.

Step 6: Assemble the Hand Pies

Place a spoonful of the blueberry filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

Step 7: Prepare for Air Frying

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the hand pies. If desired, sprinkle with coarse sugar for added sweetness and crunch.

Step 8: Air Fry the Pies

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once cooked, remove the hand pies from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
Reduce sugar in the filling by using a sugar substitute if desired.
Add chia seeds to the filling for extra nutrients and a bit of crunch.

Author’s Commentary

I absolutely love how versatile these Blueberry Air Fryer Hand Pies are! They’re not just easy to make; they also allow for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you want to stick with classic blueberries or experiment with other fruits like strawberries or peaches, the possibilities are endless. Plus, I love how the air fryer gives them that perfect crispiness without the guilt of deep frying. The lemon zest really enhances the flavors of the blueberries, so don’t skip it! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you.

Storage & Reheat Guide

To store leftover hand pies, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the hand pies individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.

Your Top Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.

What can I substitute for blueberries?

You can use any fruit of your choice, such as raspberries, strawberries, or even apples. Just adjust the sugar and cornstarch to fit the fruit’s sweetness and juiciness.

Can I bake these in a traditional oven instead of an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the hand pies for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

How do I know when the hand pies are done?

The hand pies are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also check that the filling is bubbling slightly at the edges.

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Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Blueberry Air Fryer Hand Pies, it’s time to serve them up! These delightful pastries are perfect for an afternoon snack or as a sweet treat after dinner. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. You can even serve them warm at a gathering; your guests will be raving about these hand pies long after the last bite. Enjoy every delicious moment!