Pear Hand Pies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These little pies deliver all the comfort of a classic fruit pie in a portable form. The filling combines ripe pears, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger for just the right balance of sweetness and spice. The buttery crust bakes up golden and crisp, while the sugar topping adds a satisfying crunch. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time and versatile enough to customize with different fruits or spices.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pear filling:
3 heaping cups diced pears (about 3 small, firm ripe pears)
⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons salted butter

Additional ingredients:
3 store-bought or homemade pie crusts
1 egg yolk mixed with 1 teaspoon water, for egg wash
3 tablespoons turbinado sugar or granulated sugar, for topping

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine pears, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pears begin to soften.
3. Stir in cornstarch and cook for another 2 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in butter. Let the filling cool completely.
4. Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut into circles about 4–5 inches wide (a bowl or cutter works well).
5. Place a spoonful of pear filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press edges with a fork to seal.
6. Arrange hand pies on the prepared baking sheets. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
8. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 hand pies.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for extra warmth.
• Swap pears for apples, peaches, or berries for different flavors.
• Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for a flakier texture.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze (powdered sugar + milk) for added sweetness.
• Make mini bite-sized versions using a smaller cutter.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp. Hand pies can also be frozen (baked or unbaked) for up to 3 months. Bake or reheat directly from frozen until hot and golden.

FAQs

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the pear filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use canned or jarred pears?

Fresh pears work best, but canned pears (well-drained) can be used in a pinch.

Do I have to peel the pears?

Peeling is optional peeled pears give a smoother filling, while unpeeled add texture.

Can I make these without egg wash?

Yes, brush the tops with milk or cream instead.

What pears are best for baking?

Firm varieties like Bartlett, Anjou, or Bosc hold their shape well.

Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition.

Can I use homemade pie crust?

Absolutely, homemade crust gives the pies extra flavor and flakiness.

How do I prevent hand pies from leaking?

Avoid overfilling and seal edges tightly with a fork or by crimping.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden.

Can I glaze the hand pies?

Yes, drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness.

Conclusion

Pear Hand Pies are a charming and flavorful treat that captures the cozy essence of fruit pies in a handheld size. With their spiced pear filling, flaky crust, and crunchy sugar topping, they’re perfect for sharing—or enjoying all to yourself. Whether served warm from the oven or saved for later, these pies are sure to be a seasonal favorite.

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