Camping trips and cozy bonfire evenings conjure up fond memories, don’t they? Now, imagine capturing that essence in your kitchen with these Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies. This easy dessert wraps gooey marshmallow, luscious chocolate, and crispy graham crackers in a flaky crust, giving you the classic campfire taste without the need for outdoor cooking. They’re not just delicious but also remarkably portable, making them an instant favorite for gatherings or quick treats on the go. Plus, you can whip them up with store-bought crust to save time, so there’s really no reason not to indulge. So, are you ready to recreate that nostalgic flavor and enjoy a bite of summer magic any time of the year?
Why Are These Hand Pies Irresistible?
Delightful flavors come together in these hand pies, merging chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker into a deliciously portable treat. Convenience is key! With store-bought crust options, you can whip these up in no time. Versatile enough for any occasion, serve them warm for gooey goodness or cold for a quick snack. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike—perfect for parties or picnics! Looking for other sweet inspirations? Try Cinnamon Rolls Sweet or indulge in some Brookies with a Gooey Center.
Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• Refrigerated Pie Crust – Store-bought is a convenient choice; homemade crusts offer an even flakier texture.
For the Filling
• Chocolate Bars – Use any favorite chocolate; for an extra gooey center, add more than one layer.
• Miniature Marshmallows – Essential for capturing that classic s’mores flavor; don’t skimp on these little delights!
• Graham Crackers – Crush them for the filling and as a protective layer on the baking sheet to prevent sogginess.
For the Topping
• Salted Butter – Brush on top for added flavor and helps toppings adhere for a beautiful finish.
• Cinnamon Sugar (optional) – Sprinkle on for extra sweetness; a delightful addition that elevates these irresistible S’mores Hand Pies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by removing the refrigerated pie crust from the packaging and allowing it to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out and cut into shapes. Flour a clean surface to prevent sticking, using a rolling pin to gently flatten the dough, while preheating your air fryer to 350°F for later use.
Step 2: Cut the Dough Circles
Using a 3-inch cookie cutter, cut out circles from the pie dough, maximizing the use of the crust. Aim for about 12 circles, which will make 6 hand pies. Gather any leftover dough, re-roll it, and cut additional circles if necessary. Place the dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy transfer.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine the chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. Mix well until evenly distributed, creating a gooey filling that perfectly embodies the flavor of traditional s’mores. This mixture will bring together the irresistible essence of s’mores hand pies!
Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the filling onto half of the dough circles, leaving space at the edges for sealing. Moisten the edges with a little water to help them stick together. Carefully place another dough circle on top of each filled base, ensuring that the filling is well-contained within.
Step 5: Seal the Pies
Using a fork, press down around the edges to seal each hand pie firmly. This prevents any filling from leaking during cooking. If desired, poke a couple of small holes in the tops of the pies with a toothpick to allow steam to escape, ensuring that they cook evenly and stay flaky.
Step 6: Add the Toppings
Melt some salted butter in a small bowl, then brush the tops of each sealed hand pie with the melted butter. For a sweet finishing touch, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or optional cinnamon sugar on top. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to the crust.
Step 7: Air Fry the Pies
Carefully place 2 to 4 prepared pies in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them as they cook; the goal is a perfect golden hue without burning the marshmallows.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once fully cooked, remove the hand pies from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This waiting time allows the filling to set a bit, making it easier to enjoy without burning your mouth! Serve these irresistible s’mores hand pies warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat.
How to Store and Freeze Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies
Airtight Container: Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and tasty for quick snacking!
Refrigerator Storage: For longer life, refrigerate the pies in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Warm them up in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their delightful texture.
Freezing Unbaked Pies: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the assembled but unbaked hand pies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating Baked Pies: When you’re ready to enjoy baked S’mores Hand Pies, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate and marshmallow filling to become nice and gooey again.
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and assemble the pies up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the assembly instructions and place the assembled pies in an airtight container, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. For added convenience, you can freeze unbaked pies for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy a delicious treat, cook them straight from the freezer or allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before air frying. This way, you’ll have a sweet and satisfying dessert ready with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies
- Keep It Balanced: Avoid overstuffing your pies; stick to 1 tablespoon of filling to prevent bursting during cooking.
- Seal It Tight: Moisten the edges well before sealing; a firm press with a fork ensures no filling escapes while baking.
- Crispy Crust: Lay crushed graham crackers on the baking sheet to prevent sogging and maintain that delightful crispy texture.
- Steam Escape: Poke small holes in each pie to allow steam to escape, ensuring even cooking and a light, flaky crust.
- Watch Closely: Keep an eye on them as they air fry—look for a golden brown color without burning the luscious marshmallows.
Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful recipe just the way you like it!
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Dark Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor. This bittersweet option adds a lovely sophistication to your hand pies.
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Flavored Marshmallows: Use vanilla or caramel-flavored marshmallows to infuse a new dimension of taste in your filling. This twist will surprise you and your guests with an exciting flavor journey.
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Peanut Butter Touch: Add a spoonful of creamy or crunchy peanut butter to your filling for a delightful nutty twist. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter creates a deliciously nostalgic taste!
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Fruit Additions: Incorporate fresh or dried fruits like strawberries or bananas for a fruity layer in your hand pies. The natural sweetness will elevate the flavor profile beautifully, enhancing every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the filling for a surprising heat that dances on your palate. This twist balances the sweetness with a subtle warmth, making it unforgettable.
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Granola Crunch: Mix in some crushed granola or your favorite nutty cereal for added texture. The crunch brings a delightful contrast to the gooey and tender hand pies, making every mouthful exciting.
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based crust and marshmallows to create vegan-friendly hand pies. This modification allows everyone to enjoy the deliciousness without compromising their dietary choices.
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Mini Pies: Instead of larger hand pies, make bite-sized versions for perfect portion control and easy sharing. These mini delights make great finger foods at gatherings, ensuring everyone can savor the fun of a S’more!
With so many tempting variations, you won’t run out of delicious ideas to try! If you’re looking for more desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth, consider whipping up some irresistible Cinnamon Rolls Sweet or perhaps some decadent Brookies with a Gooey Center for a delightful treat!
What to Serve with Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies
Indulging in these delightful hand pies is just the beginning—let’s build a full meal around them to elevate your dessert experience.
- Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing, milk’s coolness balances the warm, gooey filling perfectly, making each bite comfortingly delicious.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: Dive deeper into the flavor profile with creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream—an ultimate cozy treat! The sweetness of chocolate perfectly complements the layered flavors in the hand pies.
- Fruity Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a vibrant and zesty contrast. Think berries, melons, and citrus for a bright palate cleanser between bites.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For those who can’t get enough chocolate, drizzle some warm chocolate sauce over your hand pies—it’s an indulgent finishing touch everyone will love!
- Marshmallow Cream Dip: Enhance the s’mores experience with a rich marshmallow cream dip for extra gooey goodness; perfect for those who enjoy a little extra sweetness.
- Scoop of Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream adds a decadent touch; the cold creaminess balances the warm, flaky pie beautifully.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider envelops the flavors of fall and brings a cozy element to your dessert table. Serve alongside for a delightful autumn twist!
- Graham Cracker Crumble: For texture contrast, sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top or serve them on the side for dipping—you can never have too many graham cracker touches!
- Caramel Sauce: A rich caramel drizzle elevates the flavor. Sweet, golden caramel intertwines with the taste of s’mores, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chocolate for my hand pies?
Absolutely! You can use any chocolate you love—milk, dark, or even white chocolate work beautifully. Just keep in mind that the richness of dark chocolate will provide a deeper flavor, while milk chocolate is sweeter.
What is the best way to store leftover S’mores Hand Pies?
For sure! Place your leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer them a little longer, refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Just reheat them in a preheated oven to restore that warm, gooey goodness before enjoying.
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Can I freeze Irresistible S’mores Hand Pies? How?
Yes, indeed! To freeze unbaked hand pies, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they cook through.
Why did my hand pies explode in the air fryer?
Oh no! This usually happens if they’re overstuffed. Stick to about 1 tablespoon of filling, ensuring you moisten and seal the edges well with a fork. Also, don’t forget to poke small holes in the tops to let steam escape; this prevents bursting!
Can pets eat S’mores Hand Pies?
Very important! While the ingredients like chocolate and marshmallows are delicious for humans, they can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep these hand pies away from your furry friends and stick to pet-safe treats.
What can I substitute if I’m allergic to an ingredient?
Great question! If you have a gluten allergy, you can use gluten-free pie crusts. For a chocolate allergy, consider using carob chips as a delightful alternative. You can even experiment with nut butters in the filling for added flavor and texture. Be creative and enjoy!
Irresistible S'mores Hand Pies: Your New Favorite Dessert!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the refrigerated pie crust from the packaging and allow to rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough on a floured surface, while preheating the air fryer to 350°F.
- Cut out circles from the pie dough using a 3-inch cookie cutter, aiming for about 12 circles.
- Combine chopped chocolate, miniature marshmallows, and half the crushed graham crackers in a bowl.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of filling onto half of the dough circles, leaving space at the edges.
- Moisten edges with water, place another dough circle on top, and seal edges with a fork.
- Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with graham crackers or cinnamon sugar.
- Air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
