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Flaky Air Fryer Strawberry Hand Pies – Easy Air Fryer Desserts

When it comes to delightful desserts, few treats can compete with the irresistible charm of hand pies. These delightful pastries, filled with sweet fruit fillings and encased in flaky, buttery crusts, are perfect for any occasion. What’s even better? You can whip them up easily in your air fryer, making for a quick and convenient treat that’s sure to impress. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating scrumptious flaky air fryer strawberry hand pies – a dessert that’s not only delicious but also showcases the versatility of your air fryer.

The Allure of Strawberry Hand Pies

Strawberries are a quintessential summer fruit, bursting with flavour and vibrant colour. When encased in a golden, flaky pastry, the combination is simply divine. Hand pies offer the convenience of portability, making them ideal for picnics, lunch boxes, or a sweet bite to enjoy with your afternoon tea. With the air fryer, you can achieve that perfect texture without the hassle of deep frying or heating your entire oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make your own flaky air fryer strawberry hand pies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Pastry:

  • 1 sheet of ready-made puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • A sprinkle of flour (for dusting)
• For the Strawberry Filling:
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust based on berry sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • Optional: A dash of lemon juice for a zesty kick

Preparation: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Combine the Strawberries: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, salt, and optional lemon juice. Stir well and set aside to let the flavours meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry

1. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the sheet of puff pastry to ensure it’s evenly thin.

2. Cut the Pastry: Using a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut the pastry into rectangles or circles, depending on your preferred hand pie shape. Each piece should be large enough to hold a tablespoon of filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Fill the Pastry: Place a tablespoon of the strawberry filling onto one half of the pastry piece. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.

2. Seal the Pies: Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges together firmly, then use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure they are sealed well.

Step 4: Air Fry the Hand Pies

1. Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes.

2. Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the hand pies for a beautiful golden finish.

3. Cook the Pies: Arrange the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between them. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once the hand pies are beautifully golden and flaky, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. These delightful pastries are perfect on their own or served with a scoop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Flaky air fryer strawberry hand pies are a delightful and easy dessert that brings the sweetness of strawberries to life in a flaky pastry shell. This comforting treat is perfect for summer gatherings, quick afternoon snacks, or simply indulging your sweet tooth. With the air fryer making preparation easier than ever, there’s no reason not to indulge in this delicious handheld dessert. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these delectable strawberry hand pies! Enjoy!