Craving a sweet treat that’s both fun and easy to make? Look no further! Air Fryer S’mores Hand Pies bring the classic campfire flavor right to your kitchen. With a crispy crust and gooey filling, these hand pies are perfect for any occasion. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to create these delicious snacks, offer tips for variations, and answer your burning questions. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 package of pre-made pie crusts (contains two crusts)
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup chocolate chips (choose semi-sweet or dark for richer flavor)
– 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (to mimic the classic s’mores taste)
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (for an extra chocolatey boost)
– 1 egg (beaten, to use as an egg wash for a golden finish)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling on top)
– A pinch of sea salt (enhances the flavor of chocolate)
Substitutions and Alternatives
If you do not have pre-made pie crusts, you can use puff pastry. You can also try using store-bought biscuit dough for a flaky crust. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pie crust or almond flour dough. If you want a different filling, you can replace mini marshmallows with peanut butter or Nutella. Use butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a twist on flavor.
Recommended Brands
For the best results, I recommend using Pillsbury for pie crusts. Their dough is reliable and easy to work with. Ghirardelli chocolate chips add rich flavor. For marshmallows, Jet-Puffed mini marshmallows are perfect as they melt beautifully. For graham crackers, Honey Maid is a classic choice that brings that s’mores taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pie Crust
Start by rolling out the pre-made pie crusts on a floured surface. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cutter, about 4 inches wide, to cut circles from the dough. You should get 6 to 8 circles, depending on how thick you rolled them.
Mixing the S’mores Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, cocoa powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir well so all the flavors combine. This filling will give each bite that classic s’mores taste.
Assembling the Hand Pies
On each dough circle, place about 2 tablespoons of the s’mores filling in the center. Fold the dough over to make a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for added security and style.
Prepping for Air Frying
Brush the tops of each hand pie with the beaten egg. This helps them turn a nice golden brown. Then, sprinkle some granulated sugar on top for extra sweetness and a crunchy texture.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Leave space between them for air to flow. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they puff up and turn golden brown. You may need to do this in batches.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
Carefully take the hand pies out of the air fryer. Let them cool for a few minutes to avoid burns from the hot filling. For the best taste, serve them warm. This keeps the chocolate gooey and the marshmallows soft! For fun presentation, dust them with powdered sugar and serve with chocolate sauce for dipping.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Golden Color
To get a nice golden color on your hand pies, brush the tops with a beaten egg. The egg wash helps them brown evenly. After applying the egg wash, sprinkle a little sugar on top. This adds sweetness and extra crunch. Make sure your air fryer is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for the best results. Cook them until they puff up and turn golden brown.
Storing Leftover Hand Pies
If you have any hand pies left, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overfilling the pies. This can cause the filling to leak out while cooking. Make sure to use about two tablespoons of filling per pie. Another mistake is not sealing the edges well. Press the edges firmly and use a fork to crimp them. This helps keep the filling inside. Lastly, don’t rush the cooling process. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns from the hot filling.
Variations
Different Fillings to Try
You can mix up the filling to make these hand pies even more fun! Instead of the classic s’mores, try these options:
– Peanut Butter and Chocolate: Spread peanut butter on the dough and add chocolate chips.
– Fruit and Cream Cheese: Use mashed berries mixed with cream cheese for a fruity twist.
– Nutella and Banana: Spread Nutella and add banana slices for a rich treat.
– Caramel and Sea Salt: Drizzle caramel sauce inside and sprinkle sea salt for a sweet-salty combo.
Each filling can change the taste and make your hand pies unique!
Dessert Pairings for Hand Pies
Pair your hand pies with some great desserts. Here are a few ideas:
– Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a perfect match.
– Hot Chocolate: Serve with hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
– Fresh Fruit: Add a side of fresh berries for a refreshing touch.
– Chocolate Sauce: Serve with extra chocolate sauce for dipping.
These pairings elevate the hand pies and make your dessert table shine!
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
You can easily make gluten-free and vegan versions of these hand pies. Here’s how:
– Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free pie crusts available in stores or make your own with gluten-free flour.
– Vegan Chocolate: Select dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it vegan.
– Flaxseed Egg: Replace the egg wash with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a binding agent.
These options ensure everyone can enjoy the tasty goodness of hand pies!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Hand Pies
To keep your Air Fryer S’mores Hand Pies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, the fridge is a better option. They can last up to a week in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy a hand pie, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies in the basket and heat for about 3-4 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and warm. You can also use a microwave, but they might lose their crunch. Heat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze your hand pies, wrap each one in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. You can reheat them in the air fryer as mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty treat anytime!
FAQs
Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these hand pies ahead of time. Prepare the filling and assemble the pies. You can store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just cook them when you’re ready. This way, you save time and enjoy fresh treats.
What can I serve with Air Fryer S’mores Hand Pies?
These hand pies are delicious on their own. You can serve them with:
– A small bowl of chocolate sauce for dipping
– Extra mini marshmallows on the side
– A scoop of vanilla ice cream
These pairings enhance the s’mores experience and add extra fun.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can switch the chocolate type. Try using:
– Milk chocolate for a sweeter taste
– Dark chocolate for a richer flavor
– White chocolate for a creamy twist
Feel free to get creative with your choices.
How do I know when they’re done cooking?
You will know the hand pies are done when they are puffed and golden brown. They should take about 8-10 minutes in the air fryer. Check them closely around the 8-minute mark to avoid burning.
Are these hand pies kid-friendly?
Yes, these hand pies are very kid-friendly! Kids love the sweet filling and fun shape. Plus, they can help assemble the pies. It’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen.
You learned about making Air Fryer S’mores Hand Pies. We covered the key ingredients, easy steps, and helpful tips. You can substitute ingredients and try different fillings for fun flavors. Storing and reheating options keep your pies fresh and tasty. With these insights, you can enjoy delicious hand pies any time. I hope you feel ready to create this treat and impress your friends. Enjoy the baking journey!
