These Cranberry Brie Mini Hand Pies are like little pockets of joy! Flaky pastry filled with gooey brie cheese and tart cranberry sauce makes every bite a yummy treat.
They’re perfect for snack time or as a party appetizer. Honestly, I can’t resist the combination of creamy cheese and tangy cranberry. Who can say no to that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star of the dish, providing that flaky texture. If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use refrigerated pie crust or phyllo dough, but expect a different texture and flavor.
Brie Cheese: Brie is creamy and rich, making it perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using Camembert or even goat cheese. Just remember that the flavor will change a bit!
Cranberry Sauce: You can use homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce. If you don’t like cranberry, apple or cherry preserves work great as substitutes, lending a different fruity flair.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a nice herbal note. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme will work too, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Why is the Egg Wash Important for My Hand Pies?
Egg wash is key to achieving a golden and shiny look on your hand pies. It also helps seal the edges, keeping the filling inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk one egg with a teaspoon of water until well combined.
- Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the tops of your hand pies before baking. This will help them turn a lovely golden brown in the oven.
Don’t skip this step; it makes a noticeable difference in the final appearance and texture!
Cranberry Brie Mini Hand Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Hand Pies:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 4 oz brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp water
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is approximately 35-40 minutes. You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping and assembling the hand pies, followed by 20-25 minutes baking. After that, just let them cool slightly before digging in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help your hand pies bake evenly and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet. Cut it into rectangles that measure about 3×4 inches. You should have enough pieces for both filling and sealing!
3. Fill the Pastries:
Take half of the pastry rectangles and place a small piece of brie in the center of each. This will be the creamy goodness inside! Then, spoon about 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce over the brie on each piece.
4. Seal the Hand Pies:
To keep the filling inside, brush the edges of each pastry rectangle with a little water. Then, place the remaining rectangles of puff pastry over the filled ones. Press the edges firmly together with a fork to seal them tight. You want to lock in all that deliciousness!
5. Prepare for Baking:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 teaspoon of water to create your egg wash. Brush this mixture over the tops of the assembled hand pies for that yummy golden finish when baked. As an optional step, you can cut small slits in the tops to let steam escape during baking.
6. Bake and Serve:
Pop the hand pies in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re puffed up and golden brown. When finished, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Just long enough to avoid burning your fingers!
7. Garnish and Enjoy!
If you’d like, garnish your hand pies with fresh thyme sprigs for a beautiful presentation. Serve them warm, along with some extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy and fruity bite!
These delicious mini hand pies are a delightful combination of gooey brie and tangy cranberry tucked inside flaky pastry pockets. Perfect for any occasion!
Can I Make These Hand Pies Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the hand pies in advance! Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the instructions to bake them without thawing.
What Can I Use Instead of Puff Pastry?
If you’re unable to find puff pastry, you can use refrigerated pie crust or phyllo dough. Keep in mind that these alternatives will yield a different texture, but they’ll still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Hand Pies?
Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help keep the pastry crispy.
Can I Freeze the Hand Pies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked hand pies. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
