There’s something undeniably delightful about the combination of creamy cheesecake and vibrant cherries, particularly when they find their way into a buttery pastry. I first stumbled upon the notion of making Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies while browsing through a collection of family recipes, and I knew I had to recreate this wonderful treat. Imagine a sweet burst of luscious black cherries mingling with rich cream cheese, all sent to heaven in a golden, flaky crust.
These hand pies aren’t just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures tucked neatly in your hand, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Best of all? They come together quickly, making it easy for even the busiest home cooks to whip up a batch that will impress any crowd. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to elevate their dessert game, these hand pies are here to transform your kitchen into a celebration of homemade goodness!
Why love Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies?
Deliciously Unique: These hand pies bring a unique twist to traditional cheesecake, combining vibrant black cherries with silky cream cheese.
Effortless Elegance: Perfect for impressing guests, yet simple enough for a weeknight treat, they fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix it up by using different fruits or even flavored cream cheese for a personal touch.
Quick and Easy: With a straightforward assembly process, you’ll have these delightful pastries ready in no time!
Great for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, these hand pies capture the spirit of homemade goodness in every bite.
Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pie Ingredients
• Get ready to create these delightful treats with a variety of flavorful ingredients!
For the Filling
- Black Cherries – Provides sweetness and tartness; fresh or frozen will do just fine!
- Cream Cheese – Adds richness and creaminess to the filling; you can substitute with ricotta for a lighter texture.
- Sugar – Balances the tartness of cherries; feel free to adjust to taste.
- Lemon Juice – Enhances the flavor of the filling; fresh lemon juice is always best!
For the Crust
- Pie Crust – Forms the base and shell; consider a store-bought version for convenience or make your own for a personal touch.
- Egg (for egg wash) – Adds a golden color and shine; opt for milk as a substitute if you prefer a more subtle look.
With these ingredients, you’re just steps away from crafting your very own Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies that are sure to delight any crowd!
How to Make Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies
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Prepare the Black Cherry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine black cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles, approximately 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool completely before using.
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Make the Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Then gently fold in the cooled cherry mixture until everything is well combined.
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Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie crust to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles, about 4-5 inches in diameter.
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Assemble Hand Pies: Place a generous spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, and using your fingers or a fork, crimp the edges to seal tightly.
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Apply Egg Wash: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the hand pies with beaten egg or milk for a nice golden finish, ensuring even coverage.
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Bake: Transfer the prepared hand pies onto a lined baking tray, making sure to provide space between each pie. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
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Cool and Serve: Remove the hand pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation warm!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week while still enjoying delicious homemade treats! You can prepare the black cherry filling and cheesecake mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To assemble, roll out the dough and fill with the prepared mixtures just before baking for the freshest taste. When ready to bake, brush with egg wash and pop them in the oven as instructed. This approach ensures your hand pies retain their delightful flaky crust and creamy filling, making them just as delicious as the day they were made!
What to Serve with Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies?
These delightful hand pies are the perfect sweet ending to any meal, begging for some tasty companions to enhance the experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and rich, a scoop of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the tangy cherry filling and adds a luscious touch.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream brings an airy texture that balances the richness of the cheesecake, inviting everyone back for seconds.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the overall experience, with its bold flavors providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the hand pies.
- Fresh Berries: Consider serving with fresh strawberries or blueberries; their juiciness brightens each bite, harmonizing beautifully with the cherries.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the hand pies for a decadent indulgence that elevates the dessert to new heights of deliciousness.
- Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint; their vibrant color and refreshing taste not only beautify your presentation but also add a refreshing twist.
Pairing these delectable side treats will make your Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies truly unforgettable—a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will cherish!
How to Store and Freeze Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Enjoy hand pies at room temperature for up to 2 hours; they’re perfect for serving at gatherings.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the filling fresh while preserving the flaky crust.
Freezer: Freeze hand pies before baking by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen pies directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden. You can also microwave for 30-60 seconds for quick indulgence, but they may lose some crispiness.
Variations & Substitutions for Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies
Feel free to customize these delightful treats to match your cravings and pantry staples!
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Fruit Swap: Substitute black cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or diced strawberries for different flavor profiles. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness and tartness.
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Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the filling for an extra crunch. The nutty flavor beautifully complements the creamy cheesecake.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. It adds a whole new layer of depth and comfort in every bite.
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Flavored Cream Cheese: Use flavored cream cheese like vanilla or lemon to enhance the flavor of the filling. This twist gives a refreshing zing to your hand pies.
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Vegan Version: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and the egg wash with a plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly dessert. It’s just as delicious and supports various dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free Delight: Opt for a gluten-free pie crust to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Everyone can enjoy these delectable hand pies without worry.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled hand pies for a decadent dessert. The combination of chocolate and cherries is simply irresistible!
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Mini Hand Pies: Make bite-sized versions for parties or gatherings. Adjusting the size also means you can experiment more with varied fillings!
Expert Tips for Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies
- Filling Temperature: Ensure the filling is completely cool before placing it in the dough; hot filling can make the crust soggy.
- Crimping Technique: For a decorative touch and to seal properly, use a fork to crimp the edges of your hand pies. This will help prevent leaks while baking.
- Watch the Bake: Every oven heats differently; keep an eye on your pies and remove them when they reach a golden brown for the best results.
- Dough Thickness: Rolling your pie crust to about 1/8 inch will give you the perfect balance between crispy and flaky; don’t roll it too thin!
- Flavor Explorations: Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Substitute black cherries with other fruits or incorporate spiced cream cheese for a unique twist!
Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen black cherries for the filling. If you’re using fresh cherries, make sure they’re ripe, firm, and free of dark spots. For frozen cherries, just allow them to thaw beforehand and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery filling.
How do I store leftover hand pies?
I often store leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving their delightful flaky crust. Simply let them cool before sealing to ensure the best texture.
Can I freeze Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies?
Very! To freeze, arrange the assembled but unbaked hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
What should I do if my pie crust feels too soft to work with?
No worries! If your dough gets too soft while rolling out, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to cut and shape. Always roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
Are Black Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free pie crust. Many stores offer gluten-free varieties, or you can make your own using alternative flours. Just ensure that all your ingredients, including any thickening agents, are gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat these hand pies?
To reheat, bake frozen hand pies straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden and heated through. If you need a quicker option, microwave for 30-60 seconds, but keep in mind they may not be as crispy as when baked.
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Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Black Cherry Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine black cherries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until thickened, approximately 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Mixture: Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then fold in cooled cherry mixture.
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll pie crust to about 1/8 inch thickness and cut out circles.
- Assemble Hand Pies: Place filling in center of each dough circle, fold over and crimp edges.
- Apply Egg Wash: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and brush tops with egg or milk.
- Bake: Transfer to a lined tray and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!