Peach Hand Pies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines flaky pastry with sweet, juicy peaches. These handheld desserts are ideal for various occasions, from summer picnics to cozy family gatherings. The unique cream cheese crust gives these pies a rich flavor and tender texture that sets them apart from traditional fruit pies. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Peach Hand Pies are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious hand pies without any hassle.
- Versatile Flavor: While peach is the star, feel free to substitute with other fruits like berries or apples for a unique twist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, these hand pies fit right in.
- Delightfully Portable: Their handheld size makes them perfect for on-the-go treats or lunchbox surprises.
- Impressive Presentation: With their golden-brown crust and sparkling sugar topping, these pies are as beautiful as they are tasty.
Tools and Preparation
To make Peach Hand Pies, having the right tools on hand makes the process easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this scrumptious dessert.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Rolling pin
- 4-inch round cutter
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool quickly combines the dough ingredients, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps achieve an even thickness for the pie crust, essential for uniform baking.
- 4-inch round cutter: This cutter creates perfectly shaped pie rounds for easy filling and folding.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 8 ounces (226 g) cream cheese, softened and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 1/2 cups (300 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- pinch salt
For Assembly
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- sanding sugar, optional
How to Make Peach Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Place the butter, cream cheese, flour, sugar, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse for about a minute until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough in half and form each portion into a disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- Place one disc of chilled dough on a lightly floured surface.
- Roll out to 1/8-inch thickness using a rolling pin.
Step 4: Cut Dough Rounds
Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out rounds from the rolled-out dough. Gather any scraps, re-roll once if necessary, and repeat with the second disc of dough. You should have about 16 cut-outs.
Step 5: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine peaches, brown sugar, cinnamon, almond extract, and salt.
Step 6: Fill Each Pie
Divide the filling among the pie crust cut-outs using about 1½ tablespoons per pie. Leave a small margin around each edge.
Step 7: Fold & Seal
Fold over each pie to create half circles. Press edges together firmly and use a fork to seal them tightly.
Step 8: Create Vent Holes
Use a sharp knife to make small cuts in the top of each pie for ventilation during baking.
Step 9: Apply Egg Wash
Combine egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this over each pie’s top and sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired.
Step 10: Bake
Place pies on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool on pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your warm Peach Hand Pies!
How to Serve Peach Hand Pies
Peach hand pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings, or simply savoring with a cup of tea or coffee. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your peach hand pie experience.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the sweet and tart flavor of peaches.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: Adds a warm spice note, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Morning Coffee: Enjoy them alongside your morning brew for a delicious start to your day.
- Yogurt Parfait: Serve with yogurt and granola for a balanced breakfast option.
Dusted with Sugar
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and enhances presentation.
- Sanding Sugar: For a bit of sparkle and crunch on top of your pies.
With Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Peaches: Fresh slices can enhance the peach flavors in your hand pies.
- Berries: A mix of blueberries or raspberries brings additional color and taste.
With Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of cream adds richness and smoothness, balancing the pastry’s texture.

How to Perfect Peach Hand Pies
Perfecting peach hand pies involves attention to detail during preparation. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Chill the Dough: Keeping the dough cold prevents it from becoming too sticky and helps create flakiness.
- Use Fresh Peaches: Opt for ripe, fresh peaches for the best flavor. Avoid canned peaches as they can be too watery.
- Seal Properly: Ensure you seal the edges well to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Make Air Vents: Cutting small slits on top allows steam to escape, keeping your pies from getting soggy.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for an interesting flavor twist.
- Serve Warm: Peach hand pies are best enjoyed warm right out of the oven for optimal taste and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Peach Hand Pies
Peach hand pies pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their sweetness. Consider these options when planning your meal.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, vanilla ice cream complements the fruity flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness.
- Greek Yogurt: The tangy flavor offers a nice contrast while adding protein to your dessert.
- Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing drink that brightens up the meal with its citrus notes.
- Coffee: A strong cup enhances the flavors of peach while providing a comforting experience.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that pair nicely with sweet pastries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peach Hand Pies, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final result. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.
- Overworking the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough pies. Handle it gently and just until combined for a flaky texture.
- Skipping Chilling Time: Not refrigerating the dough can result in a soggy crust. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Using Overripe Peaches: Overripe peaches can make your filling too watery. Choose firm, ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture.
- Ignoring Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash means missing out on a golden finish. Brush your pies before baking for a beautiful color and shine.
- Not Sealing Edges Properly: Failing to seal edges could cause leaks during baking. Be sure to press down firmly and use a fork for extra security.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Peach Hand Pies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Peach Hand Pies
- Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Peach Hand Pies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds; this may soften the crust.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, flipping occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peach Hand Pies?
Peach Hand Pies are delightful mini pastries filled with sweet peach filling, perfect for dessert or snacks. They have a flaky crust that complements the juicy fruit inside.
Can I use frozen peaches for Peach Hand Pies?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just thaw and drain excess moisture before using them as filling.
How do I know when my Peach Hand Pies are done?
Look for a golden brown color on the crust. The pies should feel firm but slightly soft when gently squeezed.
Can I customize the filling of my Peach Hand Pies?
Absolutely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries, spices like nutmeg, or even a bit of lemon zest for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Peach Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various fillings or spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these charming treats that bring warmth and joy with every bite!
Peach Hand Pies
Peach Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines flaky pastry with sweet, juicy peaches, making them perfect for any occasion. These handheld desserts offer a unique twist with a rich cream cheese crust that enhances their flavor and tenderness. Ideal for summer picnics or cozy family gatherings, these pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Their charming appearance, with golden-brown crusts and optional sparkling sugar topping, is sure to impress guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for filling)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh peaches (about 4 medium)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough by combining butter, cream cheese, flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Pulse until a dough forms. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out one disc of dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a round cutter to cut out circles.
- Mix peaches with brown sugar, cinnamon, almond extract, and salt for the filling.
- Place filling on each dough round, fold over to seal edges with a fork, and create ventilation slits.
- Brush tops with an egg wash and sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired.
- Bake on parchment-lined sheets for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pie (65g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg








