The holiday season brings a playful spirit into our kitchens, and nothing captures that whimsy quite like these delightful Christmas Tree Hand Pies. With their golden, flaky crust and sweet cherry filling, these festive treats are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a quick dessert that has the power to spark joy at any gathering.
I remember a day filled with holiday cheer when I decided to create a sweet twist on traditional hand pies, inspired by the sights and sounds of a bustling kitchen. In just 35 minutes, I had an array of these charming tree-shaped pastries ready for family and friends, each bite bursting with a sweet-tart flavor that felt like a warm hug.
What I love most about these hand pies is their versatility; while cherry is my favorite filling, you can easily switch things up with strawberries, blueberries, or even a mix of fresh fruits. Whether they’re served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or simply enjoyed as they are, these treats are bound to become a cherished addition to your holiday table. Let’s dive into making these merry morsels!
Why Love Christmas Tree Hand Pies?
Simplicity at its finest: With just refrigerated pie crusts and a few simple ingredients, you can whip these up in under 35 minutes.
Festive fun: The unique tree shape adds a playful touch to any holiday gathering, making them an instant hit with guests.
Flavor-packed filling: The sweet cherry inside perfectly complements the flaky crust, creating a delightful contrast with every bite.
Versatility is key: Easily switch the fillings to suit your taste or the season, ensuring that there’s always a favorite waiting for everyone.
Crowd-pleaser status: Whether it’s for a holiday party or a cozy night in, these hand pies will wow anyone who tries them, leaving them asking for the recipe!
Christmas Tree Hand Pie Ingredients
-
For the Crust
-
Refrigerated Pie Crust – Using pre-made crust saves time; feel free to substitute with homemade pie dough for a personal touch.
-
For the Filling
-
Cherry Pie Filling – A sweet and tart center that’s perfect for Christmas Tree Hand Pies; consider using other fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a twist.
-
For the Topping
-
Unsalted Butter – Brush melted butter on top for a rich flavor and a beautiful golden finish.
-
Raw or Turbinado Sugar – Sprinkle on top for added crunch; granulated sugar also works well if you’re out.
-
For the Glaze
-
Powdered Sugar – This sweet glaze is essential for drizzling over the pies; for a chocolate version, swap in cocoa powder.
-
Milk – Use 1-2 tablespoons to achieve the desired glaze consistency; you can opt for dairy or non-dairy varieties.
How to Make Christmas Tree Hand Pies
-
Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375℉ and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This creates an excellent surface for baking your festive pies.
-
Prepare Crusts: Gently roll out the refrigerated pie crusts. Use a cookie cutter to cut out around 20 Christmas tree shapes. This fun shape adds instant holiday cheer!
-
Fill Pies: On half of the tree shapes, place about 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling, spreading it evenly. Then, cover each filled tree with an unfilled shape and seal the edges using a fork for a charming design.
-
Vent Pies: Cut small slits in the top of each pie to let steam escape as they bake. This step helps prevent any bursting and ensures a perfectly baked treat!
-
Butter and Sugar Topping: Brush the tops of the pies with melted butter and sprinkle raw or turbinado sugar generously over them. This gives a beautiful, crunchy finish when baked.
-
Bake: Place the baking sheets into the oven and bake for 13-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. Allow them to cool completely before glazing.
-
Make Glaze: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Mix until smooth and drizzle over the cooled pies. This simple glaze adds a sweet finishing touch!
Optional: For extra flair, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Hand Pies
- Room Temperature Crust: Ensure your refrigerated pie crusts are at room temperature for easier handling and to prevent tearing. This will make your Christmas Tree Hand Pies much easier to assemble.
- Proper Venting: Always cut slits in the tops of the pies before baking. This allows steam to escape, preventing the pies from bursting while baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the baked pies to cool completely before glazing. Glazing too early can cause the icing to melt and become a gooey mess instead of a beautiful finish.
- Try New Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings. While cherry is delightful, try mixing seasonal fruits for a delicious twist on your Christmas Tree Hand Pies!
- Enhance Festivity: Decorate with colorful icing or sprinkles for a more festive appearance, making your hand pies even more visually appealing at holiday gatherings.
Variations & Substitutions for Christmas Tree Hand Pies
Feel free to customize these delightful hand pies and make them uniquely yours!
-
Berry Blast: Substitute cherry filling with mixed berries for a vibrant and juicy burst of flavor. The tartness of raspberries or blackberries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of strawberries.
-
Savory Option: Transform these sweet treats by filling them with a blend of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and cheese. Their flaky crust provides the perfect contrast to a savory filling, making for an unexpected delight.
-
Gluten-Free Crust: For a gluten-free twist, use a store-bought gluten-free pie crust. This way, everyone can enjoy the festive fun without missing out!
-
Chocolate Drizzle: Swap out the powdered sugar glaze for melted chocolate for a rich, indulgent finish. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can elevate the flavor profile to new heights!
-
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for an aromatic twist. The warmth of cinnamon adds an extra layer of cozy flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings.
-
Fruit Medley: Combine cherry and apple fillings for a sweet and tart experience. Mixing fruit flavors allows you to create seasonal delights that guests will love.
-
Mini Pies: Use a smaller cookie cutter to create mini Christmas tree hand pies. They make for the perfect bite-sized treats, ideal for holiday parties and gatherings.
-
Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk for the glaze. This variation keeps the hand pies delicious while catering to vegan diets!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Tree Hand Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your holiday baking easier and stress-free! You can prepare the unbaked hand pies and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Simply assemble the pies by filling and sealing them, then place them on a baking sheet covered with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This helps keep them fresh and prevents drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the refrigerator for about 2-3 extra minutes to ensure they are cooked through and golden. This way, you can serve a delightful, warm dessert with minimal effort on busy festive days!
What to Serve with Christmas Tree Hand Pies?
Ready to create the perfect holiday spread that complements these joyful little treats?
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, creamy texture that balances the pie’s sweetness beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm hand pies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
- Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a steaming cup of hot cocoa; the rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet cherry filling.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad introduces vibrant colors and seasonal flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to the pastries.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Complement the holiday spirit with homemade gingerbread cookies, creating a nostalgic and flavorful pairing.
- Sparkling Cider: For a touch of celebration, serve with sparkling cider; its fizz enhances the festive atmosphere of the gathering.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of warm chocolate over the hand pies strikes a delicious balance and adds a decadent touch.
- Spiced Tea: A cup of spiced chai or tea warms the soul and brings aromatic spices that harmonize beautifully with the sweet flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: A side of caramel sauce for dipping adds a rich, buttery flavor to the sweet cherry filling, making every bite a dream!
Storage Tips for Christmas Tree Hand Pies
-
Room Temperature: Store hand pies at room temperature for up to 2 days in a covered container to maintain freshness. Enjoy them as a delightful snack or treat anytime!
-
Fridge: For extended freshness, place leftover Christmas Tree Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They will stay flavorful and ready to delight.
-
Freezer: Freeze unglazed Christmas Tree Hand Pies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
-
Reheating: Reheat baked hand pies in a preheated 350℉ oven for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky texture, or enjoy them warm straight from the oven for an irresistible treat!
Christmas Tree Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cherries for the filling?
Absolutely! When picking cherries, look for plump, firm fruits that have a deep, rich color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkled skin, as these may be overripe. The sweeter and juicier the cherries, the better your filling will be!
How should I store leftover Christmas Tree Hand Pies?
To enjoy your Christmas Tree Hand Pies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For a longer shelf life, keep them refrigerated for up to 4 days. Just be sure to keep them covered to maintain their flaky texture!
Can I freeze unglazed hand pies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Christmas Tree Hand Pies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake them, simply thaw the pies in the refrigerator overnight until completely defrosted.
What if my hand pies burst while baking?
Very! If your hand pies burst in the oven, it could be due to two main reasons: either they weren’t vented properly, or the filling was too full. To prevent this, always cut slits in the top of each pie before baking to allow steam to escape, and be conservative with the filling—about 2 tablespoons is just right!
Can I use alternative fillings for my hand pies?
Absolutely! The beauty of these Christmas Tree Hand Pies lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings such as strawberries, blueberries, or apple. For a savory option, consider filling them with a mixture of cheese and herbs for a delightful twist that’s perfect for any holiday gathering!
Festive Christmas Tree Hand Pies That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by setting your oven to 375℉ and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Gently roll out the refrigerated pie crusts. Use a cookie cutter to cut out around 20 Christmas tree shapes.
- On half of the tree shapes, place about 2 tablespoons of cherry pie filling, spreading it evenly.
- Cover each filled tree with an unfilled shape and seal the edges with a fork.
- Cut small slits in the top of each pie to let steam escape.
- Brush the tops of the pies with melted butter and sprinkle raw or turbinado sugar generously over them.
- Place the baking sheets into the oven and bake for 13-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow them to cool completely before glazing.
- Combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled pies.