The sweet aroma of campfire evenings lingers in my memory as I unroll a flaky pie crust, ready to create something magical. These Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies capture all that nostalgic goodness in a portable dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy recipe promises gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers encased in a warm crust. They are perfect for gatherings, quick treats on the go, or even as a delightful snack shared with family. And guess what? You can customize these hand pies to suit any craving, whether you prefer dark chocolate or a vegan twist. Are you ready to embrace this delightful treat that brings a taste of the outdoors right into your kitchen?
Why You'll Love These S'mores Hand Pies
Nostalgic Flavor: Capture the essence of campfire memories with each bite. Portable Delight: These hand pies are easy to take on the go, making them perfect for picnics or quick snacks. Endless Customization: From dark chocolate to fruity additions, tailor them to match your taste! Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time, they fit right into your busy schedule. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for gatherings, everyone will love this adorable twist on a classic. Try them warm or cold for the ultimate dessert experience!
S'mores Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• Refrigerated Pie Crust – Easy to find in stores; homemade can add a personal touch and flakiness.
For the Filling
• Chocolate Bars – Use your favorite chocolate for a rich filling; feel free to mix varieties for extra gooeyness.
• Miniature Marshmallows – A must for that classic s'mores flavor; make sure to use plenty for optimal gooeyness.
• Graham Crackers – Crush them for the filling and use them on the baking sheet to keep the bottoms from getting soggy.
For the Topping
• Salted Butter – Brush on top for added flavor and to help toppings stick.
• Cinnamon Sugar (optional) – Sprinkle on top for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch, perfect for s'mores hand pies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S'mores Hand Pies
Step 1: Dough Preparation
Begin by allowing the refrigerated pie crust to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, making it easier to roll out. While waiting, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect cooking temperature for your delicious S’mores Hand Pies.
Step 2: Dough Cutting
Roll out the softened pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it’s about ⅛ inch thick, then use a round cutter to cut approximately 12 circles, each about 3 inches in diameter. These will serve as the base for your hand pies, so be mindful to lay them out carefully on a baking sheet.
Step 3: Filling Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine your chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. Stir gently until well-mixed to create a sweet filling that captures the classic s’mores flavors, ensuring each hand pie will be a delightful, gooey treat.
Step 4: Assemble Pies
Take a spoonful (about 1 tablespoon) of the filling mixture and place it onto the center of half of the dough circles. Moisten the edges with a little water, then carefully place another dough circle on top. Seal the edges by pressing them with a fork to create a decorative border and to ensure the filling stays intact.
Step 5: Toppings Application
Melt some salted butter in a small dish and brush a generous amount over the tops of each hand pie. For an extra special touch, feel free to sprinkle with additional crushed graham crackers or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar to add sweetness and a bit of crunch before they go into the air fryer.
Step 6: Air Frying
Carefully place 2 to 4 assembled S’mores Hand Pies in your air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch each other to allow even cooking. Air fry for about 10 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and the crust is flaky and inviting, filling your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
Step 7: Cooling
Once cooked, transfer the hand pies to a wire rack. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps the filling set slightly and avoids any steamy surprises when you take your first bite. Enjoy your delightful S'mores Hand Pies while warm for that perfect gooey experience!
Expert Tips for S'mores Hand Pies
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Perfect Filling Amount: Always use 1 tablespoon of filling; overstuffing can cause the pies to burst while cooking.
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Seal Smartly: Ensure your edges are well-sealed with a fork to prevent any leakage of gooey marshmallows or chocolate during air frying.
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Steam Holes: Remember to poke a few steam holes in the tops before cooking. This allows steam to escape and keeps your hand pies from getting soggy.
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Storage Solutions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
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Try Custom Variations: Feel free to get creative with fillings, such as adding fruits or using dark chocolate, to elevate your S'mores Hand Pies even further!
S'mores Hand Pies Variations to Try
Customize these delightful hand pies for a unique twist that suits your taste buds perfectly!
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Dark Chocolate Substitute: Swap milk chocolate for dark for a more intense, rich flavor.
Indulge in a deeper chocolate experience that balances perfectly with sweet marshmallows. -
Flavorful Marshmallows: Use flavored marshmallows, like vanilla or caramel, to elevate the filling.
This unexpected variation adds a delightful twist that's sure to surprise your senses! -
Nutty Add-ins: Mix in a spoonful of peanut butter for creamy richness or fresh/dried fruits for an exciting contrast.
These additions bring a delightful crunch and balance to the gooey center, making every bite sensational. -
Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of cayenne or extra cinnamon for a warm kick.
It’s an intriguing twist that plays wonderfully with the sweetness of the filling! -
Vegan Option: Substitute with a plant-based crust and vegan marshmallows to make these pies suitable for all diets.
Enjoy the same cherished flavors while catering to everyone at the table! -
Mini Pies: Create adorable mini versions for easy sharing at gatherings.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for kids and adults alike, making them a hit at any event! -
Tropical S'mores: Incorporate coconut flakes or pineapple chunks into your filling for an island-inspired twist.
The fruity contrast brings a refreshing take on this classic favorite. -
Cheesecake Delight: Blend in cream cheese with the chocolate mixture for a rich, cheesecake-like filling.
This clever variation reimagines the hand pie with creamy decadence that everyone will love!
Feel free to explore these variations or blend ideas for a truly unique creation. Each time can be an adventure in flavor and fun!
What to Serve with Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies
Wrap your taste buds in warmth and sweetness, creating a complete experience alongside these delightful snacks.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm hand pies, adding a luscious touch.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the hand pies beautifully.
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Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety hot chocolate elevates the cozy essence of the hand pies, making it a nostalgic pairing for chilly nights.
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Warmed Nutella: Spread a layer of warm Nutella alongside your hand pies for an added layer of chocolatey indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a vibrant burst of color and freshness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee complement the sweet richness of the hand pies, making it ideal for a delightful afternoon treat.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Serve with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on the side for those who crave a little extra sweetness and warmth.
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Charcuterie Board: Pair these hand pies with a selection of cheeses and crackers to create an indulgent snack table that's sure to impress guests.
How to Store and Freeze S'mores Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Keep uneaten S'mores Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, allowing you to enjoy that delicious gooeyness anytime.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the hand pies in an airtight container for up to 4 days; simply warm them in the air fryer or microwave before eating for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Freezer: If you'd like to save some for later, unbaked hand pies can be frozen for up to 3 months; just prepare them as directed, wrap well, and pop them in the freezer. Defrost before air frying!
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the hand pies in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy, making for a delightful snack at any time.
Make Ahead Options
These S'mores Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks who love to prepare in advance! You can assemble the pies up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply prepare the filling and fill the dough circles, then place uncooked hand pies in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. To maintain their quality, ensure that the edges are sealed well to prevent any filling from leaking. When you're ready to enjoy them, just pop them directly into the air fryer without thawing—air fry for about 10 minutes until golden brown and enjoy a delicious dessert that will remind you of cozy campfire evenings!
S'mores Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting chocolate bars for your S'mores Hand Pies, choose ones that are fresh and smooth, avoiding any that appear dull or have a white coating. For marshmallows, look for fluffy, soft ones without any hard edges. As for graham crackers, ensure they’re crisp and not stale for the best texture in your filling.
What is the best way to store my S'mores Hand Pies?
To keep your S'mores Hand Pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer them to last longer, pop them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to warm them briefly before enjoying to recapture that delightful gooeyness!
Can I freeze S'mores Hand Pies? How do I do it?
Definitely! To freeze your unbaked S'mores Hand Pies, prepare them as directed but do not cook. Carefully wrap each pie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When it’s time to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then air fry directly from the freezer (just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time) for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!
What should I do if my hand pies burst open while baking?
Very! To prevent bursting, make sure to stick to 1 tablespoon of filling per pie and properly seal the edges with a fork. Poking small steam holes in the tops of the pies allows steam to escape, reducing pressure that could cause them to burst during cooking. If bursting happens occasionally, don’t worry—just embrace that gooey mess!
Are S'mores Hand Pies safe for pets or allergy-friendly?
Great question! While S’mores Hand Pies are a scrumptious treat for humans, they are not pet-friendly due to chocolate being toxic to dogs and other pets. If you're allergic to gluten or dairy, you can easily make adjustments, like using gluten-free pie crust and avoiding butter. Vegan marshmallows and dark chocolate also provide alternatives for those with dietary preferences or restrictions.
Can I customize the flavors of my S'mores Hand Pies?
The more the merrier! Feel free to be creative with your S'mores Hand Pies. Swap in dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer taste, mix in some dried fruits, or even add flavors like cinnamon or cayenne for a unique twist. Each variation can make this treat even more special and suited to your taste!
Indulgent S'mores Hand Pies for a Sweet Nostalgic Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Allow the refrigerated pie crust to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, while preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the softened pie crust to about ⅛ inch thick and cut approximately 12 circles, each about 3 inches in diameter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. Stir gently until well-mixed.
- Place a spoonful (about 1 tablespoon) of the filling mixture onto the center of half the dough circles. Moisten edges with water and place another dough circle on top. Seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush melted salted butter over the tops of each hand pie. Optionally, sprinkle with additional crushed graham crackers or cinnamon sugar.
- Place 2 to 4 assembled S’mores Hand Pies in the air fryer basket and air fry for about 10 minutes, until golden brown.
- Transfer the hand pies to a wire rack and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
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