Description of this recipe
These Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, bringing the gooey, chocolatey, and marshmallowy goodness into a convenient, handheld form. Encased in flaky, golden pie crust, these mini pies are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth with a nostalgic flavor. Each bite delivers a burst of melted chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and a hint of graham cracker crunch, making them an instant favorite for both kids and adults.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll adore these S’mores Hand Pies for their simplicity, versatility, and incredible taste. They’re incredibly easy to make, using readily available ingredients and a straightforward process that even novice bakers can master. The recipe is highly customizable – feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, add a sprinkle of sea salt, or even incorporate peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor. These hand pies are not only delicious but also perfectly portioned, making them ideal for controlling your sweet cravings. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy the iconic s’mores flavor without the mess and fuss of a campfire. They are guaranteed to bring smiles and create sweet memories with every bite.
Ingredients:
For the mini pies:
- 14.1 oz package refrigerated pie dough
- 2 bars (approximately 3-4 oz each) chocolate, chopped into small pieces (milk, dark, or semi-sweet – your choice!)
- 1/2 cup miniature marshmallows
- 3/4 cup crushed graham crackers, keep half for topping
- 2 tbsp salted butter, melted
- Water (for sealing edges)
For serving (optional):
- Chocolate syrup, for dipping
- Marshmallow cream, for dipping
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough
Begin by unrolling the refrigerated pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or as directed on the package, to make them easier to work with. This step ensures that the dough won’t crack or tear when you cut out the circles.
Using a 3-inch cookie cutter (or a similar-sized round object like a drinking glass), cut out as many circles as possible from the pie dough. Position the cuts close together to minimize waste and maximize the number of hand pies you can create. Gently gather any leftover scraps of dough, reroll them, and cut out additional circles until you’ve used as much of the dough as possible. Place the cut circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the S’mores Filling
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped chocolate, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers (reserving the other half for topping). Gently stir the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. The mixture should be well-combined but not overly packed.
Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness of the chocolate and marshmallows, or a dash of cinnamon for a warm, comforting flavor. For an extra gooey center, you might want to add a few more chocolate pieces.
Step 3: Fill and Seal the Mini Pies
Take half of the pie dough circles from Step 1 and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Scoop approximately one tablespoon of the s’mores filling mixture from Step 2 onto the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the pies to burst open during cooking.
Moisten your fingertip with a little water and lightly brush it around the outer edge of each filled dough circle. This will help the top and bottom layers of dough adhere properly, creating a secure seal.
Place the remaining pie dough circles on top of the filled circles, aligning the edges. Gently press down around the edges to seal, being careful to avoid trapping air inside.
Use a fork to crimp around the edges of each pie, pressing firmly to create a decorative and secure seal. This not only adds an attractive touch but also helps to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Step 4: Butter and Top the Pies
In a small bowl, melt two tablespoons of salted butter. You can do this in the microwave in 20-second intervals or in a saucepan over low heat.
Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of each sealed mini pie with the melted butter. This will give the pies a beautiful golden-brown color and a rich, buttery flavor.
Sprinkle the reserved crushed graham cracker crumbs evenly over the buttered tops of the pies. This adds a delightful crunch and enhances the classic s’mores taste. Gently press the graham cracker crumbs into the buttered surface to help them adhere.
Step 5: Air Fry the Mini S’mores Pies
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the air fryer is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the pies from sticking. This will make it easier to remove them after cooking without damaging the crust.
Place 2-4 mini pies into the air fryer basket, depending on the size of your air fryer, making sure they are not touching each other. Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking.
Air fry the pies for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is melted and gooey. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Carefully remove the pies from the air fryer basket and transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Allowing them to cool for a few minutes will prevent the filling from being too molten and messy.
Repeat the process with any remaining pies until all are cooked.
Step 6: Serve with Dipping Sauces
While the hand pies are still warm, you can serve them with optional dipping sauces such as chocolate syrup or marshmallow cream. These add an extra layer of indulgence and complement the s’mores flavors perfectly.
Arrange the warm hand pies on a serving platter and garnish with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, gooey goodness of these Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as caramel or Nutella, for added flavor options.
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Pack them in a picnic basket for a delightful outdoor snack.
- Serve as a fun and interactive dessert at parties or gatherings.
Tips:
- To prevent the pie crust from puffing up too much during baking, you can dock the top with a fork before adding the butter and graham cracker topping.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these hand pies in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate or add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the filling mixture.
- Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Get creative with your fillings! Try adding peanut butter chips, chopped nuts, or a layer of caramel for a unique twist on the classic s’mores flavor.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimates will vary based on specific ingredients used)
Calories:
Approximately 250-300 per hand pie
Protein:
Approximately 3-4 grams per hand pie
Sodium:
Approximately 150-200mg per hand pie
Conclusion
These Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies bring the beloved campfire treat into your kitchen with ease and flair. The flaky crust, gooey filling, and crunchy topping create a symphony of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, these mini pies are a fun and delicious way to share the joy of s’mores with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the nostalgic taste of s’mores anytime, anywhere, with these delightful hand pies!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of chocolate for the filling?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate to customize the flavor to your liking. Milk chocolate will provide a sweeter, classic s’mores taste, while dark chocolate will offer a richer, more intense flavor. Semi-sweet chocolate is a great option for a balanced taste. You can even use white chocolate for a unique twist.
Q2: What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake these in the oven?
A: Yes, you can definitely bake these hand pies in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is melted and gooey. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Q3: How can I prevent the filling from leaking out while cooking?
A: To prevent the filling from leaking, make sure to seal the edges of the pies securely. Use a fork to crimp around the edges, pressing firmly to create a tight seal. Also, avoid overfilling the pies, as this can cause them to burst open during cooking.
Q4: Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the hand pies ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent the crust from drying out. When you’re ready to bake or air fry them, simply follow the recipe instructions.
Q5: What are some other variations I can try with this recipe?
A: There are endless possibilities for variations! You can add peanut butter chips or a layer of peanut butter to the filling for a peanut butter s’mores flavor. Try using different types of cookies instead of graham crackers for the topping. Add a sprinkle of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon to the filling for added flavor. You can even drizzle caramel or Nutella over the finished pies for an extra indulgent treat.
