As the days grow longer and nature awakens with vibrant hues, there’s a certain magic in springtime produce. Few pairings capture this essence quite like the delightful duo of strawberries and rhubarb. Their harmonious blend of sweet and tart is a testament to the season’s bounty, and what better way to celebrate it than with a portable, perfectly portioned dessert? Introducing our Strawberry Rhubarb Hand Pies with Pecan Crust – a truly irresistible treat that promises a burst of fresh flavor in every bite, all wrapped up in a wonderfully flaky, nutty pastry.

Strawberry Rhubarb Hand Pies with Pecan Crust: Your Essential Springtime Indulgence

The arrival of spring brings with it a cornucopia of fresh ingredients, but for many, none is more anticipated than the vibrant red stalks of rhubarb and the juicy, crimson strawberries. This classic combination is a culinary dream, a symphony of flavors that evokes childhood memories and the simple joys of homemade baking. From traditional pies bursting with fruit to comforting coffee cakes, elegant tartlets, and even innovative dishes like French toast, the versatility of strawberry and rhubarb is simply unmatched. Each year, as the seasons shift and these precious ingredients become available, I find myself eagerly searching for new and exciting ways to transform this beloved pair into something truly special. This spring, I’ve reimagined the classic pie, giving it a delightful and convenient twist: individual hand pies with an exceptional pecan crust.

While a full-sized strawberry rhubarb pie is always a crowd-pleaser, there’s something undeniably charming and practical about its smaller, handheld counterpart. These individual pastries are not just adorable; they offer a unique ease of enjoyment that traditional pies simply can’t match. This year, my quest for the perfect spring dessert led me to embrace the joy of hand pies, elevating them with a rich, nutty pecan crust that adds an unexpected depth of flavor and a wonderfully crumbly texture. It’s a combination that promises to make these hand pies a standout at any gathering or a cherished treat for a quiet afternoon indulgence.

The Irresistible Allure of Homemade Hand Pies

There are very few things that bring more joy than a warm, homemade pie, but a homemade *hand pie* takes that delight to an entirely new level. It’s all about the perfect portion size and unparalleled portability. While it’s true that crafting individual hand pies might require a smidge more effort than baking one large pie, the rewards far outweigh the extra steps. Imagine biting into a perfectly sealed, golden-brown pastry, filled with sweet and tangy strawberry rhubarb goodness, without the need for plates, forks, or even waiting for it to cool down to a manageable temperature. The instant gratification is immense.

One of the greatest benefits of hand pies is their immediate appeal. As soon as they emerge from the oven, their aroma filling your kitchen, they are fair game. No more agonizing waits for a large pie to set and cool before slicing. These delightful personal pastries are designed for convenience and enjoyment on the go. They’re ideal for picnics in the park, impromptu road trips, packed lunches, or as a charming addition to any potluck or spring celebration. Their self-contained nature means less mess and more enjoyment, making them a guaranteed hit that won’t last long once served.

A Delightful Twist on Tradition: The Pecan Crust

Beyond their convenient size and the irresistible strawberry-rhubarb filling, these hand pies boast another exciting element that sets them apart: a rich and flavorful pecan crust. This isn’t just any pie crust; it’s a buttery, flaky masterpiece infused with the warm, earthy notes of finely ground pecans. The addition of pecans lends a subtle nuttiness and a slightly crumbly texture that beautifully complements the vibrant fruit filling. It elevates the entire hand pie experience, offering a sophisticated contrast to the sweet and tangy interior.

The pecan crust introduces a layer of complexity that transforms a simple fruit pie into a gourmet experience. It provides a delightful counterpoint to the bright acidity of the rhubarb and the sweetness of the strawberries, creating a more balanced and intriguing flavor profile. Each bite delivers the familiar comfort of a classic pie, but with an unexpected twist that will have your taste buds singing. If you appreciate the delicate crunch and rich flavor of pecans as much as you adore the classic strawberry and rhubarb combination, then these hand pies are an absolute must-make for your spring baking repertoire. They are truly begging to be the star of your next picnic, family brunch, or casual get-together, adding a touch of homemade elegance and irresistible flavor to any occasion.

Expert Baking Tips for Flawless Hand Pies

Strawberry Rhubarb Hand Pies with Pecan Crust

Servings: 8 hand pies

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Chill Time: 2 hrs

Total Time: 2 hrs 50 mins

These delightful individual hand pies feature a sweet and slightly tart strawberry rhubarb filling encased in a wonderfully flaky, rich pecan crust. Perfect for spring gatherings, picnics, or a delightful personal treat, they combine classic flavors with convenient portability.

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Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 grams)
• 1 cup pecans (85 grams)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (55 grams)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (113 grams)
• 2-3 tablespoons ice cold water
• 1 large egg + 1 teaspoon water, for egg wash
• Granulated sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

For the filling:

• 1 lb strawberries, hulled and sliced (455 grams)
• 1 lb rhubarb, chopped into 1 inch pieces (455 grams)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

To make the crust:

1. Pulse the pecans in a food processor until finely ground. Add the flour, powdered sugar, and salt and pulse a few times until combined.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse a few times until the butter is chopped to the size of peas. Add the water and continue to pulse just until mixture begins to come together.
3. Dump out onto a clean surface and shape into a disk, mixture will be slightly crumbly. Cover in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge at least 2 hours.

To make the filling and assemble the hand pies:

1. Put the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, cornstarch and vanilla extract in a medium saucepan set over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently as the sugar dissolves and fruit breaks down.
2. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer mixture until reduced and thickened, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll the pie crust out until it is about 1/8-inch thick. Use a 4 or 5-inch round cutter to cut dough into rounds.
4. Place a rounded tablespoon in the center of each dough round, leaving ¼-inch space around the edges. Brush edges with egg wash. Fold one half of each dough round over, creating a crescent shape. Press to seal, then use the tines of a fork to complete seal. Use a sharp knife to cut vents into the top of each pie.
5. Put assembled hand pies on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper and freeze for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 425°F.
6. Brush hand pies with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar, if desired. Bake until hand pies are golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. Hand pies are best the day they are baked.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 402kcal
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 51mg
• Sodium: 158mg
• Potassium: 325mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 33g
• Vitamin A: 456IU
• Vitamin C: 38mg
• Calcium: 75mg
• Iron: 1mg

Cuisine: American

Course: Dessert

Author: Annalise Sandberg

Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a rating and review below, or take a photo and tag it on Instagram @completelydelicious with #completelydelicious.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Diamond of California as part of a long-term culinary ambassadorship. Thank you for supporting partnerships with brands I love and believe in, which make Completely Delicious possible. All opinions are always 100% my own.

To find more great recipes using nuts visit the Diamond Nuts website. You can also find them on facebook, twitter, youtube, pinterest, and instagram.