Cranberry Hand Pies

Name: Cranberry Hand Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed); 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (chopped); 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 to 2 tbsp ice water (as needed)

Published: December 11, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Hand Pies

This incredible Cranberry Hand Pies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Hand Pies:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the flaky pastry crust; choose unbleached flour for optimal texture.
Unsalted Butter: Cold butter is key; it helps create those irresistible flaky layers in the dough.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and filling; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
Fresh Cranberries: The star of our hand pies! Look for firm, bright berries for the best flavor.
Cinnamon: Just a dash adds warmth and complements the tartness of cranberries beautifully.
Lemon Juice: A splash enhances the cranberry flavor and balances sweetness perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cranberry Hand Pies:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this is where you channel your inner pastry chef! Add ice water gradually until dough comes together. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Mash lightly with a fork to release some juices but leave some whole for texture.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

Once chilled, roll out half of the dough on a floured surface until it’s about an eighth of an inch thick. Use a round cutter (or just a cup if you’re feeling adventurous) to cut out circles.

Step 4: Assemble Your Pies

Place about a tablespoon of cranberry filling on one half of each circle. Fold over and pinch edges to seal tightly. Use a fork to crimp edges or get creative with shapes while pretending you’re an artist.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with beaten egg for that golden finish. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown—this is when your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Step 6: Cool & Enjoy

Let them cool slightly before devouring! Serve warm or at room temperature—these hand pies are perfect any way you slice them.

Transfer to plates and enjoy these Cranberry Hand Pies as snacks, desserts, or anytime cravings hit!

You Must Know About Cranberry Hand Pies

This showstopping Cranberry Hand Pies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with Cranberry Hand Pies, start by preparing your filling first. While it cools, roll out the dough, then assemble the pies before baking them to golden perfection.

Flavor Your Way

Get creative with your Cranberry Hand Pies! Swap cranberries for blueberries or cherries, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or mix in some orange zest for a zesty kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Cranberry Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Cranberry Hand Pies

This professional-quality Cranberry Hand Pies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember one time making these delightful Cranberry Hand Pies for a family gathering. I was overwhelmed with compliments—my aunt even begged me to enter a pie-eating contest!

FAQs

What are Cranberry Hand Pies?

Cranberry hand pies are delightful pastries filled with a sweet and tart cranberry mixture. These portable treats feature a flaky crust that encases the vibrant filling, making them perfect for any occasion. Typically enjoyed during the holiday season, they can be served warm or at room temperature. The combination of buttery pastry and tangy cranberry creates a delicious contrast that appeals to many palates. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or dessert, Cranberry Hand Pies are sure to impress your family and friends.

How do I make the crust for Cranberry Hand Pies?

To create a flaky crust for your cranberry hand pies, start by combining flour, salt, and cold butter in a mixing bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until you achieve pea-sized crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough holds together. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This ensures that your crust will be tender and flaky once baked. Remember, keeping the ingredients cold is key to achieving the best texture.

Can I use fresh cranberries for Cranberry Hand Pies?

Absolutely! Fresh cranberries work wonderfully in cranberry hand pies. However, they are quite tart on their own, so it’s essential to sweeten them properly. Cook the cranberries with sugar and other flavorings like orange zest or cinnamon to balance their tartness before using them as a filling. This will enhance the overall taste of your hand pies. You can also experiment with adding other fruits to create unique flavor combinations.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Hand Pies?

To store leftover cranberry hand pies, let them cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven until warm for a fresh-baked taste.

Conclusion

In summary, Cranberry Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors with a flaky crust. They’re easy to make at home using fresh ingredients and can be customized with various fillings. Whether enjoyed during festive gatherings or as an everyday snack, these hand pies are sure to satisfy your cravings. Follow our tips on preparation and storage, and you’ll have a delicious batch of Cranberry Hand Pies ready whenever you need them!