As I stood in my kitchen, a delicious aroma wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to summer nights spent around the campfire. That’s exactly the feeling that these Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies deliver—a portable, delightful twist on a classic treat. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, thanks to store-bought pie crust, but they also invite a world of customization; think your favorite chocolate bars or even a hint of nut butter for an indulgent upgrade. Perfect for gatherings or a quick dessert fix, these little pockets of nostalgia bring joy whether you’re serving them warm or at room temperature. Are you ready to embark on a hands-on adventure with these delightful hand pies?
Why are S'mores Hand Pies So Special?
Nostalgic flavors come alive with each bite, reminding you of campfires and laughter. Quick and Easy to prepare, these hand pies save you from elaborate dessert processes while delivering maximum delight. Customizable options abound, allowing you to swap in dark chocolate or flavored marshmallows, ensuring every batch is uniquely yours. Perfect for Sharing, whether you're hosting a picnic or a cozy movie night, these treats are sure to impress. Don't forget, if you love easy dessert ideas, check out our other portable dessert recipes.
S'mores Hand Pies Ingredients
Discover the delicious components that come together in these irresistible hand pies!
For the Dough
- Refrigerated Pie Crust – Offers a flaky structure and is super convenient; homemade works wonders too!
- Salted Butter – Enhances the pie crust flavor; brushing some on top before baking adds richness.
For the Filling
- Chocolate Bars – Choose your favorite to bring sweetness; dark chocolate gives a richer taste!
- Miniature Marshmallows – Essential for that gooey s’mores flavor; be generous to capture that beloved texture.
- Graham Crackers – Crushing them helps maintain a good texture; use some in the filling and a layer to reduce sogginess.
Optional Topping
- Cinnamon Sugar – Sprinkle this for an extra sweet crunch that takes the pies to the next level!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S'mores Hand Pies
Step 1: Dough Preparation
Begin by letting your refrigerated pie crust rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften, making it easier to roll out. Lightly flour a clean surface and gently roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness, ensuring an even layer so that your s'mores hand pies bake uniformly.
Step 2: Cut Dough Circles
After rolling, use a 3-inch round cutter to create approximately 12 circles, enough for 6 hand pies. Carefully transfer the cut circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. This step ensures that each pie has a sturdy base and makes for easier assembly in the following steps.
Step 3: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. Stir gently until the mixture is evenly coated and well blended. This delicious filling embodies the classic s’mores flavors, making your hand pies irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble Hand Pies
Take one of the dough circles and place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center. Moisten the edges of the circle with a touch of water, then place a second circle on top. Press the edges together firmly and use a fork to seal the edges completely, ensuring no filling leaks during baking.
Step 5: Toppings
Melt some salted butter and brush a light layer over the tops of the assembled s'mores hand pies, adding richness to the crust. For an extra touch, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar to enhance the flavor and create a delightful crunch once they’re baked. This final step adds both aroma and sweetness that complements the chocolate and marshmallow filling.
Step 6: Cooking
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Carefully place the hand pies in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for about 10 minutes until they are golden brown and puffed up, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning. This quick cooking method ensures a crispy, flaky crust.
Step 7: Cooling
Once cooked, use tongs to transfer the s'mores hand pies to a wire rack. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving so that the filling can settle and won’t burn your mouth. These warm treats are best enjoyed slightly cooled, maintaining their gooey, melty texture.
Expert Tips for S'mores Hand Pies
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Sealing Technique: Ensure proper sealing by moistening the edges of the dough before pressing together; this prevents filling leakage while baking.
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Steam Escape: Poke small holes in the tops of the pies before cooking to allow steam to escape, preventing them from exploding in the air fryer.
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Filling Variation: Feel free to experiment with chocolate types and marshmallow flavors; adding flavored options can elevate your S'mores Hand Pies to new heights.
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Perfect Texture: For a crispier crust, brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar just before air frying.
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Cooling Time: Allow the pies to cool slightly on a wire rack post-cooking; this will help the gooey filling set, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
S'mores Hand Pies Variations
Unleash your creativity and make these hand pies truly yours with exciting twists that tantalize your taste buds!
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Chocolate Varieties: Swap milk chocolate for dark or white chocolate for a completely different flavor sensation. The richness of dark chocolate contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the marshmallows!
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Marshmallow Flavors: Use flavored marshmallows such as vanilla, caramel, or even peppermint for an extra layer of taste. This little change can evoke seasonal vibes or just add a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Nut Butters: Incorporate peanut butter, almond butter, or even cookie butter into the filling for a creamy richness that elevates the classic s'mores experience. Imagine biting into that warm, gooey center with nutty perfection!
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Fruits: Add fresh fruit like bananas, strawberries, or even raspberries to introduce natural sweetness and vibrant colors. The fruity burst complements the melted chocolate perfectly, creating a delightful contrast.
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Spiced Filling: A dash of cinnamon or cayenne pepper can ignite your s'mores hand pies with a warm kick! It’s a fun way to tantalize your palate and surprise your guests with a twist on tradition.
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Granola Addition: Mixing in granola or crushed cereal provides an irresistible crunch that elevates the texture of your hand pies. It’s a delightful surprise with each bite, providing a satisfying contrast to the gooey center.
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Coconut Flakes: Incorporate sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes into the filling for a tropical twist! This adds flavor and gives your hand pies a delightful chewy texture.
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Savory Elements: Incorporate a touch of bacon bits or pretzel pieces into the filling for a fun sweet and salty combination. It's an unexpected twist that will certainly impress your friends and family!
These variations can transform your S'mores Hand Pies into an adventure of taste, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home. If you're looking for even more inspiration, consider exploring our other portable dessert recipes or dive into delicious easy-to-make treats.
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies are perfect for busy weeknights or quick gatherings! You can assemble the hand pies and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. To maintain their flaky texture, be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. If you prefer, you can also freeze unbaked hand pies for up to 3 months; simply place them in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown, and you'll have a delightful treat that tastes just as good as fresh!
Storage Tips for S'mores Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Store baked hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain their delicious flaky texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, place the hand pies in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat them to enjoy the gooey filling again!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked hand pies for up to 3 months. Bake them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw beforehand—when you're ready for a sweet treat!
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop them in the air fryer or oven until warmed through, ensuring they maintain that irresistible flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies
Imagine a cozy gathering where sweet and savory options dance harmoniously around your S’mores Hand Pies, enhancing that nostalgic treat!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the rich chocolate and gooey filling, adding a delightful chill to each bite. This classic pairing becomes an irresistible dessert duo, making every spoonful memorable.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a vibrant, tart contrast that cuts through the sweetness of the hand pies. Their refreshing burst of flavor brings an exciting color and flavor dimension to your dessert spread.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the warm hand pies amplifies their indulgence. A touch of extra chocolate creates a lavish experience that chocolate lovers won't be able to resist.
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Cold Milk: A glass of cold milk is the ultimate companion, washing down the rich flavors of the pies while softening the texture. It’s reminiscent of childhood snacks where comfort and joy unite in every sip and bite.
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Campfire Hot Chocolate: Serve with a warm cup of hot chocolate, perhaps with a hint of peppermint or cinnamon, to evoke the coziness of a campfire night. This pairing envelops your taste buds in warmth, making each hand pie even more special.
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Graham Cracker Dippers: For an interactive twist, serve extra graham crackers alongside for dipping in marshmallow fluff or chocolate sauce. This not only adds fun but also reinforces the playful s’mores theme that everyone loves.
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Cinnamon Sugar Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips sprinkled with cinnamon sugar make a delightful contrast to the soft hand pies. Their sweet crunch creates a fun texture play that makes your dessert table more interesting.
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Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of lightly salted, roasted nuts brings a savory component to the mix. Crunchy and slightly salty, they provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the hand pies and create a well-rounded snack selection.
S'mores Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What kind of chocolate should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use any chocolate bar that you love, whether it's milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate. Each variety will bring a unique taste to your S'mores Hand Pies, so feel free to mix it up based on personal preference.
How do I store leftover S'mores Hand Pies?
To keep your hand pies fresh, store them in an airtight container. At room temperature, they’ll last for up to 2 days while maintaining their flaky texture. Alternatively, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Just remember to reheat them to enjoy that gooey filling again!
Can I freeze S'mores Hand Pies? How?
Definitely! To freeze unbaked hand pies, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place them directly in the air fryer or oven from frozen—no thawing required!
What should I do if my hand pies leak during cooking?
If you find that your hand pies leak filling, it usually means they weren't sealed properly. Be sure to moisten the edges of the dough before sealing. Additionally, poking small holes in the tops will allow steam to escape, preventing any explosions while cooking. For next time, check that the edges are well-pressed together.
Are there any allergy considerations with S'mores Hand Pies?
It's a great question! The traditional S'mores Hand Pies contain gluten (from pie crust and graham crackers) and dairy (from chocolate and butter). If you have allergies, consider using gluten-free pie crusts and dairy-free chocolate alternatives. Always read labels carefully and opt for products that fit your dietary needs to enjoy this delightful treat safely.
How do I ensure my hand pies have crispy crusts?
To achieve a beautifully crispy crust, brush the tops of the assembled hand pies with melted butter before baking. You can even sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top for an extra flavor and crunch. The air frying method is also excellent for achieving that deliciously golden finish!
Irresistible S'mores Hand Pies: Easy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let refrigerated pie crust rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Roll out the dough to about ⅛ inch thickness.
- Use a 3-inch round cutter to create approximately 12 circles. Transfer the circles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. Stir gently until evenly coated.
- Take one dough circle, place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center, moisten edges, and seal with a second circle on top.
- Brush melted salted butter on top of assembled pies and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Place hand pies in a single layer and cook for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer cooked pies to a wire rack to cool for a few minutes before serving.
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