When it comes to the world of desserts, few treats can match the charm and convenience of strawberry hand pies. These delightful pastries are a perfect blend of sweet, juicy strawberries and a flaky, buttery crust, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the taste buds. Unlike traditional pies that require a large baking dish and careful slicing, strawberry hand pies offer individual servings that are easy to hold and enjoy on the go.

One of the greatest advantages of making strawberry hand pies is that no one has to settle for a skimpy slice. Each hand pie is a generous portion of deliciousness, ensuring that everyone gets their fair share of the strawberry goodness. Whether you're hosting a party, having a family gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, these hand pies are sure to be a hit.

To start making these delectable strawberry hand pies, you'll need a few key ingredients. First and foremost, fresh strawberries are a must. Look for plump, ripe strawberries with a vibrant red color and a sweet aroma. Wash the strawberries thoroughly and hull them, then slice them into small pieces. The natural sweetness of the strawberries will be the star of the show, so it's important to use the best quality you can find.

In addition to the strawberries, you'll also need a pie crust. You can make your own pie crust from scratch using flour, butter, salt, and water, or you can use a pre-made pie crust for convenience. Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it's about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the pie crust, about 4-5 inches in diameter.

Next, it's time to prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a little sugar, cornstarch, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The sugar will help to draw out the juices from the strawberries and add sweetness, while the cornstarch will thicken the filling and prevent it from becoming too runny. The lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the strawberries perfectly.

Once the filling is ready, place a spoonful of the strawberry mixture in the center of each pie crust circle. Fold the crust over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal the pie. Make a few small slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape during baking.

Brush the top of each hand pie with a little egg wash, which is simply an egg beaten with a tablespoon of water. The egg wash will give the pies a golden brown color and a shiny finish. Sprinkle the pies with a little sugar for added sweetness and crunch.

Now it's time to bake the hand pies. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake the pies for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once the hand pies are cooled, you can enjoy them as they are, or you can serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize the hand pies to suit your taste preferences.

Strawberry hand pies are not only delicious, but they're also a great way to use up fresh strawberries. If you have an abundance of strawberries in season, making hand pies is a wonderful way to preserve their flavor and enjoy them throughout the year. You can also experiment with different variations of the filling, such as adding a little cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract for extra flavor.

In conclusion, strawberry hand pies are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet taste of strawberries with the flaky goodness of a pie crust. They're easy to make, convenient to eat, and perfect for any occasion. So the next time you're in the mood for a sweet treat, why not give these strawberry hand pies a try? You won't be disappointed!