Is there anything better than biting into a warm, buttery pastry filled with gooey, herby cheese? These Herbed Cheese Hand Pies are the ultimate comfort food – crispy, golden layers on the outside and a creamy, flavorful filling on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a cozy brunch, planning a picnic, or just in the mood for a quick snack, this recipe is guaranteed to impress! 🥐✨
Why You’ll Love These Herbed Cheese Hand Pies
These hand pies are a perfect balance of flaky pastry and cheesy goodness. They’re:
- Easy to make: With store-bought puff pastry, you’ll save time without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: Swap out the herbs or cheese to match your taste preferences.
- Perfectly portable: Ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or on-the-go snacking.
Plus, they’re so cute and photo-worthy that your Pinterest followers will swoon over your creations! 📸
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible hand pies:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère work well)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg (beaten, for the egg wash)
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
- No puff pastry? Use pie dough or crescent roll dough instead.
- Out of fresh herbs? Swap for dried herbs, but use half the amount.
- Dairy-free option: Use a plant-based cheese and skip the cream cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make these Herbed Cheese Hand Pies together! 🥰
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut it into 6 equal rectangles.
2. Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix the shredded cheese, cream cheese, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Assemble the Pies
Scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture onto one side of each pastry rectangle. Fold the other side over to create a pocket and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
4. Add the Finishing Touch
Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg for a shiny, golden finish. Use a small knife to cut a tiny slit on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the pies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving (if you can wait!).
Pro Tips and Variations
- Extra crispy edges: Chill the assembled pies for 10 minutes before baking for even flakier layers.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a kick of heat.
- Sweet twist: Swap the savory filling for cream cheese and jam for a dessert version!
Serving and Storage Suggestions
These hand pies are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. Serve them with a side salad for lunch or pair them with a hot cup of tea for a cozy treat. 🌿☕
To store, let the pies cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to get that crispy pastry back!
Pin-Worthy Tips for Styling
Want your Herbed Cheese Hand Pies to shine on Pinterest? Here are a few easy styling ideas:
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the pies for a pop of green before snapping your photos.
- Background: Use a rustic wooden board or a neutral linen cloth for a cozy vibe.
- Angles: Capture a mix of overhead shots and close-ups to highlight the flaky pastry and gooey cheese filling.
Don’t forget to use natural lighting and tag your photos with #HerbedCheeseHandPies so I can see your creations! 💕
Common Questions About Herbed Cheese Hand Pies
Can I freeze these hand pies?
Yes! Assemble the hand pies and freeze them unbaked on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Besides cheddar and mozzarella, you can try feta, gouda, or even blue cheese for a bold flavor twist.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the filling and pastry the night before, then assemble and bake them fresh the next day.
Let’s Get Baking!
These Herbed Cheese Hand Pies are as delicious as they are easy to make. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe will be a hit in your kitchen. Save this recipe to your Pinterest board, share it with your friends, and let’s bake something irresistible together! 🧀🥐