“Who needs a campfire when you can indulge in these Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies anytime, anywhere?” The first time I took a bite, I was instantly transported back to cozy summer nights under the stars, savoring the smoky sweetness of s'mores. These delightful hand pies, filled with gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate, are not only incredibly easy to make but also brilliantly portable, making them the perfect treat for gatherings or a quick snack on the go. With the option to swap in vegan ingredients and customize the filling, you can create a version that suits every palate. So, are you ready to embark on this delicious journey and bring a little taste of campfire nostalgia into your kitchen?
Why Will You Love These Hand Pies?
Convenience at Its Finest: These S’mores Hand Pies are incredibly easy to prepare, thanks to pre-made pie crusts!
Endless Customization: Feel free to experiment with flavors! Try dark chocolate for richness or even flavored marshmallows for a unique twist.
Portable Goodness: Perfect for on-the-go snacking or packed lunches, these delectable treats are ideal for picnics or parties.
Crowd Favorite: Their nostalgic flavor is sure to please everyone, making them a delightful addition to any gathering.
Freezer-Friendly: Prep a batch in advance and freeze them—just bake from frozen whenever sweet cravings strike!
S'mores Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Crust
• Refrigerated Pie Crust – Use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a flakier texture.
For the Filling
• Chocolate Bars – Any variety works well, but layering chocolates makes for an extra gooey filling.
• Miniature Marshmallows – A generous amount ensures that classic s'mores flavor shines through.
• Graham Crackers – Crush to mix with the filling and sprinkle on the baking sheet to prevent sogginess.
For the Topping
• Salted Butter – Brushing on top adds a touch of richness and helps the toppings stick.
• Cinnamon Sugar (optional) – Sprinkling this on top adds a delightful sweetness and extra crunch.
With these S’mores Hand Pies ingredients in hand, you're just moments away from creating a nostalgic treat that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S'mores Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Remove the refrigerated pie crust from its packaging and let it rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This will make the dough more malleable for cutting. While waiting, preheat your air fryer to 350°F, allowing it to reach the right temperature for perfectly golden S'mores Hand Pies.
Step 2: Cut the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the softened pie dough gently to avoid tearing. Using a 3-inch cookie cutter, cut out approximately 12 circles. As you work, reserve any scraps of dough for re-rolling later, ensuring you have enough circles for our delightful hand pies.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped chocolate, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed, creating a gooey, sweet filling bursting with that classic s’mores flavor. Set aside while you prepare the dough circles for filling.
Step 4: Fill the Dough Circles
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the marshmallow and chocolate filling onto the center of half of the dough circles, taking care to avoid the edges. This generous filling will ensure your S'mores Hand Pies are deliciously gooey once baked.
Step 5: Seal the Pies
Lightly moisten the edges of the filled dough circles with a small amount of water. Carefully place the remaining dough circles on top, pressing down the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges firmly, ensuring no filling leaks out during cooking, creating an irresistible sealed pocket.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the tops of the sealed hand pies with melted salted butter for added richness and a beautiful golden finish. Sprinkle with the remaining crushed graham crackers or a dusting of cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch that complements the flavors of the S'mores Hand Pies.
Step 7: Bake the Hand Pies
Place the prepared hand pies in batches in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have space to expand. Air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to achieve that perfect crispiness.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, carefully transfer the hand pies to a wire rack to cool briefly. Allow them to sit for a few minutes until they are cool enough to handle. These S'mores Hand Pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, offering a delightful treat for any occasion.
Make Ahead Options
These S’mores Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling—chopped chocolate, miniature marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers—up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the hand pies, seal them well, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before baking. When you're ready to indulge, simply remove them from the fridge and bake them directly, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time if they’re cold. This way, you’ll ensure they remain just as delicious and flaky, ready to delight friends and family at a moment's notice!
What to Serve with Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies
These delightful hand pies bring back summer memories, making them the perfect centerpiece for your dessert table.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast, enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A warm drizzle of rich chocolate sauce amplifies the sweetness, complementing the hand pies’ filled gooeyness and crunch.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a burst of brightness, cutting through the sweetness while adding a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream serves as a luscious topping that beautifully balances the richness of the hand pies.
- Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm cup of hot cocoa drizzled with marshmallow fluff; it's the perfect companion to this sweet treat.
- Espresso: A shot of strong espresso adds a sophisticated contrast to the dessert's sweetness, enhancing your overall sensory experience.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brightens up the plate, offering a light, healthy dimension to your dessert spread and balancing the richness.
- Nutella Dip: A small bowl of Nutella makes for a decadent dipping experience, embracing the chocolatey goodness and reviving classic s’mores flavors.
Expert Tips for S'mores Hand Pies
Avoid Overstuffing: Limit the filling to about 1 tablespoon to prevent bursting during cooking.
Steam Release: Don’t forget to poke small holes in the tops before baking; this allows steam to escape, ensuring even cooking and a crispy crust.
Butter Brushing: Brush the tops with melted butter; this not only enhances flavor but also helps achieve a golden, crispy texture.
Experiment with Fillings: Explore various chocolate types—like dark chocolate or even flavored options—and consider adding a spoonful of peanut butter for an exciting twist to your S'mores Hand Pies.
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Check the hand pies during the last few minutes of air frying to ensure they reach that perfect golden brown without overcooking.
S'mores Hand Pies Variations
Unleash your creativity in the kitchen by exploring these fun and delicious twists on the classic S'mores Hand Pies!
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Dark Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer flavor that adds a sophisticated touch.
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Flavored Marshmallows: Experiment with vanilla, caramel, or strawberry flavored marshmallows for a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Fruity Additions: Incorporate fresh or dried fruits like raspberries or bananas into the filling for a refreshing burst of flavor.
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Vegan Option: Use a plant-based pie crust and marshmallows to create a vegan-friendly version that everyone can enjoy.
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Granola Crunch: Mix in crushed granola with the filling for an added texture that's both chewy and satisfying.
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Mini Pies: Make bite-sized versions by using a smaller cookie cutter, perfect for easy sharing at parties or gatherings.
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Nutty Twist: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter to the filling for a nutty flavor explosion.
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Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne pepper in the filling can elevate your hand pies with a delightful hint of heat.
Transform your S’mores Hand Pies into a delightful dessert that caters to every taste! And for a classic serving suggestion, pair them with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle your favorite chocolate sauce on top for that extra indulgence. Enjoy the journey of flavors!
How to Store and Freeze S'mores Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Keep leftover S'mores Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best flavor.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the hand pies in an airtight container for up to 4 days, letting them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: You can freeze unbaked S'mores Hand Pies wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time as necessary.
Reheating: To reheat, place baked hand pies in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
S'mores Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I know when to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! Opt for chocolate bars that are shiny and smooth, avoiding any with signs of dullness or white spots. For marshmallows, choose ones that are soft and fluffy, steering clear of those that are hard or have an unusual texture. Ensure your graham crackers are fresh—look for a crisp texture without any signs of staleness.
What’s the best way to store leftover S'mores Hand Pies?
Very! Store your leftover S'mores Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If refrigerating, they can last up to 4 days. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying again, as this will help maintain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze S'mores Hand Pies, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked S'mores Hand Pies, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To bake, remove them directly from the freezer and add about 5 extra minutes to your cooking time in the air fryer—easy peasy!
What should I do if my S'mores Hand Pies burst during baking?
Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! To prevent bursting, ensure you are using the appropriate amount of filling (about 1 tablespoon) and seal the edges very well with a fork. Additionally, poke a few small holes in the tops before cooking to allow steam to escape, ensuring they cook evenly without leaking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Of course! For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make these S'mores Hand Pies vegan. Simply substitute the regular pie crust with a plant-based version, and use vegan marshmallows and chocolate. Additionally, always double-check labels to avoid allergens—this is especially important for nuts, dairy, or gluten if anyone in your group has allergies.
How do I know if my filling is too runny?
Great question! If your filling is too runny, it may make sealing the pies difficult. The filling should be thick and cohesive. If it appears too gooey, consider adding a bit more crushed graham crackers to absorb excess moisture. You can also refrigerate your filling for 30 minutes to help it firm up before using.
Delicious S'mores Hand Pies: Your New Favorite Dessert!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the refrigerated pie crust from its packaging and let it rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- On a floured surface, roll out the softened pie dough gently and cut out approximately 12 circles using a 3-inch cookie cutter.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped chocolate, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling onto the center of half of the dough circles.
- Lightly moisten the edges of the filled dough circles with water and place the remaining circles on top, pressing to seal.
- Brush the tops with melted salted butter and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or cinnamon sugar.
- Place the hand pies in batches in the air fryer basket and air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
- Allow the pies to cool briefly on a wire rack before serving.
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