S'mores Hand Pies: The Perfect Sweet Treat Recipe

Introduction to S’mores Hand Pies

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. It takes me back to summer nights spent around a campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Now, I can bring that nostalgia into my kitchen with S’mores Hand Pies. These delightful treats are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re also a fun way to impress your loved ones. With their portable nature, you can enjoy the classic flavors of s’mores anytime, anywhere. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This S’mores Hand Pies

These S’mores Hand Pies are a game-changer for dessert lovers. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a handful of ingredients. The best part? You can whip them up in under an hour! Each bite is a delightful explosion of gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham cracker. Perfect for satisfying cravings or impressing guests, these hand pies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients for S’mores Hand Pies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious S’mores Hand Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of your dough, providing structure and texture.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough, balancing the rich filling.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and brings everything together.
• Unsalted butter: Chilled and diced, it creates a flaky texture in the pastry.
• Cold water: Helps bind the dough without melting the butter, keeping it flaky.
• Mini marshmallows: The gooey star of the show, adding that classic s’mores flavor.
• Chocolate chips: Choose your favorite type—milk, dark, or even flavored—for a rich filling.
• Graham cracker crumbs: These add crunch and that unmistakable s’mores taste.
• Egg (for egg wash): Gives the hand pies a beautiful golden finish when baked.

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a tablespoon of peanut butter to the filling for a delightful twist. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate chips, like mint or caramel, to create a unique flavor profile. Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make S’mores Hand Pies

Creating S’mores Hand Pies is a delightful journey that combines simple steps with a touch of creativity. Let’s break it down into easy-to-follow steps, ensuring you get that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. This trio forms the base of your dough. Next, add the chilled, diced unsalted butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It should look a bit like sand. Gradually pour in the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Don’t overwork it; you want it to be tender and flaky!

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Once your dough is ready, divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a disk and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial! Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out later. Plus, it enhances the texture, giving you that perfect flaky crust.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has chilled, it’s time to roll it out. On a floured surface, take one disk and roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Keep your rolling pin lightly floured to prevent sticking. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles. Repeat this with the second disk. You should have enough circles for the top and bottom of your hand pies. If you don’t have a cutter, a glass works just as well!

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

Now comes the fun part—assembling your hand pies! Place half of the dough circles on a prepared baking sheet. On each circle, layer mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker crumbs, leaving a small border around the edges. This is where the magic happens! Top each filled circle with another dough circle. Press the edges to seal, then crimp with a fork for a decorative touch. Don’t forget to brush the tops with the beaten egg for that golden finish!

Step 5: Bake the Hand Pies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you finish assembling. Bake the hand pies for 20-25 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different! Once they’re done, let them cool slightly before serving. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving in right away!

Tips for Success

• Use chilled ingredients for the dough to ensure a flaky texture.
• Don’t skip the chilling step; it makes rolling out the dough much easier.
• Experiment with different chocolate types for unique flavor combinations.
• Seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
• Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. Any bowl will do!
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough. A wine bottle works in a pinch!
• 4-inch round cutter: For cutting dough circles. A glass can substitute.
• Baking sheet: To hold your hand pies while baking. Line it with parchment paper.
• Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash. A clean paintbrush can work too!

Variations

• Peanut Butter S’mores: Add a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter to the filling for a delicious twist.
• Flavored Chocolate: Use mint, caramel, or even white chocolate chips for a unique flavor experience.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Fruit Additions: Incorporate sliced strawberries or bananas for a fruity twist on the classic s’mores flavor.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based egg substitute for the wash.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Hot Chocolate: Complement the pies with a steaming cup of hot chocolate, perfect for dipping.
• Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish and serve on a rustic wooden board.

FAQs about S’mores Hand Pies

Can I make S’mores Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Just assemble the hand pies and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm hand pies whenever you want!

What can I use instead of mini marshmallows?

If you can’t find mini marshmallows, you can cut regular marshmallows into smaller pieces. Alternatively, try using marshmallow fluff for a gooey filling that spreads easily.

How do I store leftover S’mores Hand Pies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

Can I customize the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your filling. Add nuts, different types of chocolate, or even a layer of fruit for a unique twist on the classic S’mores Hand Pies.

Are S’mores Hand Pies suitable for a crowd?

<pYes! These hand pies are perfect for parties or gatherings. They’re easy to grab and eat, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Just double the recipe to ensure everyone gets a taste!

Final Thoughts

Making S’mores Hand Pies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. Each bite transports you back to carefree days filled with laughter and warmth. The joy of pulling these golden treats from the oven, with their gooey centers and flaky crusts, is simply unmatched. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment alone, these hand pies bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!