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### **How to Make Homemade Peach Hand Pies**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust**
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine **flour**, **sugar**, and **salt**.
2. **Cut in the Butter**: Add the **cold, cubed butter** to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. **Add Water**: Slowly add **cold water**, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. **Chill the Dough**: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps to create a flakier crust.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Peach Filling**
1. **Cook the Peaches**: In a medium saucepan, combine the **diced peaches**, **sugar**, **cornstarch**, **lemon juice**, **cinnamon**, and **vanilla extract**. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the peaches release their juices, about **5-7 minutes**.
2. **Cool the Filling**: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the peach filling cool completely. This step helps prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
#### **Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies**
1. **Roll Out the Dough**: Once the dough has chilled, roll one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface into a thin sheet, about **1/8 inch thick**. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, approximately **4-5 inches** in diameter.
2. **Add the Filling**: Place about **1-2 tablespoons of peach filling** in the center of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. **Seal the Pies**: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges together, sealing the pies tightly.
4. **Brush with Egg Wash**: In a small bowl, whisk together the **egg** and **water** to make the egg wash. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish.
#### **Step 4: Bake the Hand Pies**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
2. **Bake**: Place the assembled hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky, and the filling is bubbling.
3. **Cool**: Let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving. Be cautious, as the filling will be very hot!
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### **Tips for the Perfect Peach Hand Pies**
– **Use Fresh, Ripe Peaches**: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe peaches. If you can’t find fresh peaches, you can substitute frozen peaches (thaw and drain them before use).
– **Add a Zesty Twist**: For an extra burst of flavor, add a bit of **lemon zest** to the filling or a pinch of **nutmeg** for a warm spice.
– **Make Ahead**: These hand pies can be made ahead of time. Assemble the pies, freeze them on the baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
– **Serving Options**: Serve the hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
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### **Why These Homemade Peach Hand Pies Are a Must-Try**
**Homemade Peach Hand Pies** are the ultimate summer dessert. The sweet, juicy peach filling pairs perfectly with the buttery, flaky crust, and the individual size makes them ideal for sharing or packing up for a picnic. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or at room temperature, these little pies are a sure way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Perfect for a weekend baking project or a special occasion, these hand pies are a delicious way to capture the essence of peach season in every bite. Make a batch today, and your family and friends will be begging for more!
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### **Final Thoughts**
There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, golden crust filled with the sweet, aromatic flavor of peaches. With these **Homemade Peach Hand Pies**, you’ll have the perfect treat for any occasion—whether it’s a summer get-together, a picnic, or just a cozy night in. Try them today and experience the magic of homemade pies at their finest!
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