Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies

Introduction:

Indulge in a delightful treat that combines the irresistible flavors of fresh strawberries and creamy Nutella nestled within a flaky pastry crust. Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies offer a portable and convenient way to enjoy the classic pairing of fruit and chocolate. In this article, we’ll explore the delectable world of Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies, from their simple preparation to their mouthwatering taste that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 4-6 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup Nutella
• 1 cup strawberries, diced
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water

Additional:

• Coarse sugar, for sprinkling

Directions:

Prepare the Pastry:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until dough forms. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Make the Filling:

1. In a small bowl, mix strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Assemble the Hand Pies:

1. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into rounds using a cookie cutter.
2. Spoon a small amount of Nutella in the center of half the rounds, then top with the strawberry mixture. Cover with another dough round, seal edges with a fork, and cut small slits on top.
3. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Bake:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Prep Time: 30 minutes | Chill Time: 1 hour | Cooking Time: 22 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 52 minutes
3. Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 hand pies

Serving Tips:

1. Freshly Baked Enjoyment: Serve Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies warm from the oven for the ultimate indulgence. The aroma of buttery pastry and melted Nutella will tantalize your senses.
2. Accompaniments: Pair these hand pies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added decadence. The contrast of cold and creamy against warm, flaky pastry is simply divine.
3. Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile by garnishing the serving plate with fresh strawberries or a drizzle of melted Nutella.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: If planning to consume within 1-2 days, store the hand pies at room temperature in an airtight container. They will maintain their freshness and texture during this short period.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the hand pies in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are tightly sealed to prevent drying out.
3. Freezing: These hand pies are freezer-friendly. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. To thaw, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight or reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
4. Reheating: To restore the crispness of the pastry and the gooeyness of the Nutella filling, reheat the hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them for 20-30 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones in this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen strawberries can be a convenient alternative, especially when fresh ones are not in season. Simply thaw the strawberries before using them in the recipe, and make sure to drain any excess liquid to prevent the hand pies from becoming too soggy.

2. Can I make the pie crust from scratch instead of using store-bought? Yes, definitely! Homemade pie crust can elevate the flavor and texture of your hand pies. You can use your favorite pie crust recipe or try a simple one made with flour, butter, salt, and water. Just ensure the dough is rolled out to the appropriate thickness and follow the same assembly instructions.

3. Can I substitute Nutella with another chocolate spread or filling? Certainly! While Nutella adds a unique flavor to these hand pies, you can experiment with other chocolate spreads or fillings to suit your taste preferences. Peanut butter, chocolate ganache, or even fruit preserves can be delicious alternatives for filling your hand pies.

4. How do I prevent the hand pies from leaking filling while baking? To prevent filling leakage, ensure that the hand pies are properly sealed before baking. Press the edges firmly with a fork to create a tight seal, and avoid overfilling them with Nutella and strawberries. Additionally, chilling the assembled hand pies in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before baking can help the pastry hold its shape better.

5. Can I make these hand pies ahead of time for a party or gathering? Absolutely! These hand pies are perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble the hand pies, seal them, and then store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake. This allows you to save time on the day of your event and still serve freshly baked hand pies to your guests. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly if baking from frozen.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of strawberries and Nutella in a portable and convenient package. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or a decadent dessert, these hand pies are sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your face. With their simple preparation and irresistible taste, Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies are a must-try for any dessert lover.