There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a warm, flaky hand pie filled with luscious, melty Nutella and fresh, juicy strawberries. This Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies Recipe combines the creamy richness of hazelnut spread with the bright, natural sweetness of strawberries, wrapped in a perfectly golden crust that’s just begging to be devoured. Whether you’re looking for a delightful dessert to impress guests or a portable treat to savor anytime, these hand pies are irresistibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great dish starts with a handful of essential ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. Each component plays a star role, from the buttery pie crust giving structure and crumbly texture, to the fresh strawberries adding vibrant color and natural sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance in every bite.
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts, softened: Provides the perfect flaky and buttery base for your hand pies.
- 0.75 cup fresh strawberries, finely diced: Adds a juicy, fruity brightness that complements the richness of Nutella.
- 0.33 cup Nutella hazelnut spread: Infuses each pie with creamy, chocolatey decadence.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the strawberries for a balanced flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Thickens the strawberry filling to prevent sogginess and leaking.
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the strawberry mixture.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Used for the egg wash to achieve that stunning golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Lightens the egg wash and helps it adhere to the pastry perfectly.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): A pretty finishing touch that adds a hint of sweetness and visual appeal.
How to Make Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix the Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl, combine the diced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. This mixture not only bursts with fresh flavor but also has just the right consistency thanks to the cornstarch, which prevents the filling from becoming watery as it bakes.
Step 2: Cut Out Your Pie Circles
On a lightly floured surface, unroll the softened pie crusts and use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles. These will be your hand pie bases and tops, so aim for uniform size to ensure even baking and a beautiful presentation.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place half of the dough circles on your prepared baking sheet. Spoon about one tablespoon of creamy Nutella into the center of each, followed by one tablespoon of your strawberry mixture. Be careful not to overfill to avoid leaks. Then, cover with the remaining dough circles and press the edges together using a fork. This ensures a tight seal for that perfect handheld experience.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Venting
Whisk together the egg and milk to create a shiny, golden egg wash. Brush this over the tops of your hand pies for that irresistible glaze. Don’t forget to cut a small slit or two on top of each hand pie—this little steam vent keeps the filling from bursting and helps achieve that beautiful puff during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your hand pies in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The scent will be heavenly, and the crust perfectly crisp. Let them cool slightly before optionally dusting with powdered sugar to add that extra touch of charm.
How to Serve Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and looks delightful on these hand pies. For a pop of color and freshness, top with a few sliced strawberries or a small dollop of whipped cream. These little touches take the presentation from homey to show-stopping in seconds.
Side Dishes
Pair these hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic warm-and-cold dessert combo. Freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk also complement the rich Nutella flavor beautifully, making them perfect for breakfast treats, afternoon snacks, or a cozy dessert after dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these hand pies on a rustic wooden board with a scattering of fresh mint leaves for a charming, inviting look. For parties, arrange them in a circle with small bowls of Nutella and strawberry jam in the center for dipping. You can also wrap them individually in parchment paper tied with twine for an adorable grab-and-go gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover hand pies are best kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust flaky while the filling remains delightful. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration can help extend freshness, but bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze beautifully, making them a convenient treat to enjoy anytime. Freeze unbaked pies on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready, bake directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to your baking time.
Reheating
Reheat your hand pies in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky crust and warm filling. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to soften the pastry and take away from the delightful texture you worked so hard to create.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor, frozen can work in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the filling runny.
Is Nutella the only hazelnut spread that works?
You can substitute Nutella with any hazelnut or chocolate spread you like. Just be aware that different brands may vary slightly in sweetness and texture, which could affect the final taste and consistency.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Be careful not to overfill the pies and always seal the edges tightly with a fork. Using cornstarch in the filling helps thicken it so it stays put while baking.
Can these hand pies be made vegan?
To make a vegan version, use a plant-based pie crust and substitute the egg wash with a mixture of plant milk and maple syrup or aquafaba. Also, ensure the hazelnut spread is dairy-free.
What’s the best way to transport these hand pies?
Cool them completely before placing in a snug container to prevent them from getting squished. Wrapping individually in parchment paper can provide added protection, making them ideal for picnics or packed lunches.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s easy to whip up but sure to impress, this Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies Recipe should be at the top of your list. The perfect combo of creamy Nutella and fresh strawberries wrapped in flaky pastry brings pure joy in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try making these hand pies, share them with friends, and watch them disappear with big smiles all around!
Print
Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these irresistible Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies featuring a flaky pie crust filled with a luscious blend of fresh strawberries and creamy Nutella. Perfectly sized for on-the-go indulgence or party treats, these golden-baked hand pies combine the sweetness of juicy berries with the rich hazelnut spread, all wrapped in a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients
For the Pie Filling
- 0.75 cup fresh strawberries, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.33 cup Nutella hazelnut spread
For the Dough and Assembly
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts, softened
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix the Strawberry Filling: In a small bowl, combine the finely diced strawberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Mix well to coat the strawberries, ensuring the filling thickens during baking.
- Cut Pie Crust Circles: On a lightly floured surface, unroll the softened pie crusts. Using a 4-inch round cutter, cut out circles from the dough, aiming to get as many as possible for 8 hand pies.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Place half of the dough circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about one tablespoon of Nutella onto the center of each dough circle, then top with a tablespoon of the strawberry mixture.
- Seal the Pies: Top each filled circle with another dough circle. Press the edges together firmly with a fork to seal the pies completely, preventing leaks during baking.
- Brush with Egg Wash and Vent: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the tops of each hand pie to help them brown beautifully. Cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the pies for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the crusts turn golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool slightly. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Do not overfill the pies to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- These hand pies are delicious when served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for parties or dessert on the go.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture in the filling.
- Ensure pie crusts are softened slightly to make cutting and folding easier.
