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Easy Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies

Hand pies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances flaky pastry and sweet filling, making them ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a snack on the go. Traditionally baked in the oven, these little pockets of goodness can now be made even easier with the help of an air fryer. In this article, we’ll guide you through making Easy Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies that are quick, delicious, and sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 1 packet of ready-made shortcrust pastry (or puff pastry, if you prefer)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

For the blueberry filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Baking parchment
• Pastry brush

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring gently until the blueberries have released their juices and the mixture has thickened. If you’re using frozen blueberries, ensure they are fully thawed and heated through.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the filling to cool while you prepare the pastry.

Step 2: Prepare the Pastry

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the shortcrust pastry to about ¼ inch thick. If you are using puff pastry, you may wish to keep it slightly thicker for extra fluffiness.
2. Using a pastry cutter or a cup, cut out circles from the pastry. Aim for a diameter of about 10 cm (4 inches), which will yield hand pies that are the perfect size for snacking.
3. You can re-roll the scraps of pastry to create additional circles.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place a tablespoon of the cooled blueberry filling in the centre of each pastry circle, making sure not to overfill.
2. Fold the pastry over to create a half-moon shape, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure a tight seal.
3. For a golden finish, brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg.

Step 4: Air Fry the Hand Pies

1. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 5 minutes.
2. Line the air fryer basket with baking parchment for easy removal—this step is optional but recommended to prevent sticking.
3. Place the hand pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded (you may need to do this in batches).
4. Cook the hand pies for approximately 10-12 minutes, until they turn golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Once done, carefully remove the hand pies from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.
2. Serve warm, or allow them to cool completely. These hand pies are lovely on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips

• Filling Variations: While blueberry is a classic filling, feel free to experiment with other fruits such as raspberries, apples, or cherries. Adjust the sugar content based on the sweetness of the fruit.
• Storage: Any leftover hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for longer freshness.
• Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, simply pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to reheat and crisp up the pastry.

Conclusion

These Easy Air Fryer Blueberry Hand Pies are a fantastic way to enjoy a homemade pastry without the hassle of traditional baking. With their delightful filling and crisp exterior, they make for a sweet treat that everyone will adore. Whether you’re preparing a picnic, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a treat at home, these hand pies are sure to satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!