Delicious Mini Nutella Hand Pies: The Perfect Easy Dessert & Pi Day Treat

Happy National Pi Day! For those unfamiliar, Pi (π) is a fundamental mathematical constant, approximately 3.14159, representing the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. It’s an infinite, non-repeating number, and its common approximation, 3.14, makes March 14th the perfect day to celebrate with delicious, perfectly round (or semi-round!) pies. What better way to honor this fascinating number than by indulging in a sweet treat?

Today, we’re making these incredibly easy and utterly delightful Mini Nutella Hand Pies. Everything tastes better in mini form, and these pies are no exception! They’re bite-sized pockets of joy that are perfect for sharing, snacking, or celebrating any occasion, especially Pi Day. Forget complicated recipes and long baking sessions; these Mini Nutella Hand Pies combine a supremely flaky crust with the universally loved, creamy hazelnut goodness of Nutella, all in a convenient, portable package. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is designed for success, promising a treat that will impress without demanding hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into making these irresistible mini delights!

The Secret to Perfect Hand Pies: A Flawless Flaky Crust

The foundation of any great pie is its crust, and hand pies are no different. For these Mini Nutella Hand Pies, we need a crust that is not only buttery and tender but also sturdy enough to hold its delightful filling without crumbling. While creating your own pie crust from scratch can be a rewarding experience, sometimes the best approach is to trust an expert, especially when that expert has perfected the recipe.

That’s why I wholeheartedly recommend using the “Basic Pie Crust” recipe by Si Foster from A Bountiful Kitchen. Si is truly a queen of pie-making, and her recipe consistently yields a flaky, golden-brown crust that’s simply unparalleled. Her blog post provides comprehensive tips, detailed instructions, helpful pictures, and even tutorial videos, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. It covers everything you could possibly need to know about achieving a perfect pie crust, ensuring your hand pies are built on the best possible foundation.

Why Si Foster’s Pie Crust is the Best Choice for Hand Pies:

• **Unmatched Flakiness:** Her method ensures layers of buttery goodness that flake beautifully with every bite. The secret lies in cold butter and minimal handling, which are expertly explained.
• **Easy to Work With:** The dough is forgiving and handles wonderfully, making rolling and cutting a breeze – perfect for shaping those small, individual hand pies.
• **Consistent Results:** Follow her steps, and you’re guaranteed a delicious, golden crust every time, eliminating common pie crust woes like toughness or sogginess.
• **Expert Guidance:** Si’s detailed instructions and visuals eliminate guesswork, building confidence even for novice bakers tackling pie crust for the first time.

So, before we even get to the creamy Nutella filling, head over to A Bountiful Kitchen and prepare her incredible pie crust. Trust me, it’s worth every step, and it will elevate your Mini Nutella Hand Pies from good to absolutely extraordinary! A well-made crust is the cornerstone of a truly memorable hand pie experience.

Why Mini Nutella Hand Pies are a Must-Try Dessert

Beyond being a perfect Pi Day treat, these mini hand pies offer a multitude of advantages that make them a fantastic choice for any dessert occasion. Their compact size makes them incredibly versatile and appealing, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect Portion Control for Every Craving

One of the best things about mini desserts is inherent portion control. Each hand pie is a perfectly sized individual serving, making it easy to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging. This also makes them ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply as a satisfying single-serving snack throughout the week. No need for slicing a large pie; just grab and go!

Effortless Portability for On-the-Go Indulgence

Unlike traditional pies that require plates and forks, hand pies are designed for on-the-go enjoyment. Pack them in lunchboxes, take them to picnics, school events, or serve them at casual gatherings. Their sturdy, flaky crust keeps the creamy Nutella filling neatly contained, minimizing mess and maximizing convenience. They’re the ultimate grab-and-go dessert!

Quick Baking Time for Instant Gratification

Because they are small, these hand pies bake much faster than a full-sized pie. This means less waiting and more enjoying, making them an excellent choice for when you need a delicious dessert in a hurry. You can whip up a batch for unexpected guests or a sudden craving without a long commitment in the kitchen, making them perfect for busy schedules.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The Magic of Nutella

Who doesn’t love Nutella? The creamy, rich, chocolate-hazelnut spread is a global favorite, adored by children and adults alike. When encased in a warm, flaky pastry, it transforms into an irresistible indulgence. The balanced sweetness and nutty notes of the Nutella perfectly complement the buttery crust, creating a harmonious flavor profile that appeals to nearly everyone, making these hand pies an instant hit at any gathering.

Mini Nutella Hand Pies Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• Prepare one batch of the best Flaky Pie Crust from A Bountiful Kitchen. Ensure it’s chilled and ready for rolling.
• For the Filling:
• 1 jar of Nutella (approximately 13 oz / 370g)
• For the Glaze & Topping:
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Optional: Extra Nutella for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: First and foremost, follow A Bountiful Kitchen’s excellent recipe for preparing the pie crust. Ensure your dough is well-chilled and ready to be rolled out as per her instructions. This initial step is crucial for achieving that signature flaky texture that makes these hand pies so delightful.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, take one portion of your chilled pie dough. Roll it out evenly to approximately 1/8 inch thick. Aim for a consistent thickness across the entire sheet to ensure all your hand pies bake uniformly.
3. Cut Out Rounds: Using a round cookie cutter (ideally 3-4 inches in diameter for a perfect mini hand pie size), cut out 12 pieces of the pie crust. Carefully gather any scraps, gently re-roll them, and cut out more rounds until you have 12 in total.
4. Assemble the Base: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully place 6 of the dough rounds onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s enough space between each for even baking and slight expansion.
5. Add the Filling: Spoon about one tablespoon of Nutella into the very center of each of the 6 dough rounds already on the baking sheet. Be careful not to overfill or spread the Nutella too close to the edges, as this can make sealing the pies difficult and lead to leaks during baking.
6. Prepare to Seal: Have a small bowl of water nearby. Dip your finger into the water and lightly moisten the outer rim (about a 1/2-inch border) of each dough round with the Nutella filling. This water acts as a natural adhesive, crucial for creating a strong, secure seal.
7. Top and Seal the Pies: Carefully place the remaining 6 dough rounds on top of the Nutella-filled bases, aligning the edges perfectly. Gently press the edges firmly together with your fingers to seal them completely. For a decorative finish and an extra-secure seal, use the tines of a fork to press firmly around the entire outer edge of each hand pie.
8. Vent and Egg Wash: Using a sharp knife or small paring knife, cut 2-3 small slits into the top of each hand pie. These vents are essential as they allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the pies from bursting and keeping their shape intact. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 2 tablespoons of water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this mixture over the top of each hand pie; this will give them a beautiful, shiny golden sheen once baked.
9. Sugar Sprinkle: After applying the egg wash, sprinkle a little granulated sugar evenly over the top of each hand pie. This adds a delightful textural crunch and further contributes to that desirable golden-brown, caramelized finish.
10. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, carefully transfer the baking sheet with your hand pies to the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden brown and looks flaky. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary slightly.
11. Cool and Garnish: When finished baking, carefully transfer the hot hand pies to a wire rack to cool slightly. While still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a classic finish. For an extra touch of decadence and visual appeal, you can also gently warm a small amount of extra Nutella and drizzle it artistically over the tops of the pies just before serving. Enjoy your homemade Mini Nutella Hand Pies!

Tips for Perfect Mini Nutella Hand Pies Every Time

Achieving bakery-quality hand pies at home is easy with a few expert tips:

• **Keep Your Dough Cold:** This is the golden rule for flaky pie crust. Cold butter creates steam in the oven, which separates the dough into layers. Work quickly, and if your dough gets too warm, chill it again.
• **Don’t Overfill:** Resist the urge to add too much Nutella. A single tablespoon is the perfect amount to ensure a good seal and prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
• **Ensure a Strong Seal:** Take your time pressing the edges together firmly. The water acts as glue, and the fork tines add both security and a beautiful decorative edge. A tight seal is key to keeping the gooey Nutella inside.
• **Perfect Venting:** The small slits on top are essential. They allow steam to escape, preventing the pies from puffing up unevenly or bursting open.
• **Even Baking:** Rotate your baking sheet halfway through the baking time to ensure all your hand pies achieve an even golden-brown color.
• **Experiment with Fillings:** While Nutella is divine, don’t limit yourself! These mini hand pies are incredibly versatile. Try fruit jams (raspberry, apricot), apple pie filling, or even a cream cheese-based filling for a different delightful twist.
• **Storage:** Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For a “freshly baked” experience, reheat gently in a preheated oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Mini Hand Pies

These Mini Nutella Hand Pies are fantastic on their own, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. However, a few simple additions can elevate them even further and make them suitable for various occasions:

• **Warm with Ice Cream:** A scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream melting deliciously over a warm hand pie is pure bliss. The contrast of hot and cold, and the added creaminess, creates an unforgettable dessert experience.
• **Coffee or Tea Companion:** They make an excellent pairing with your morning coffee, a luxurious afternoon tea, or even a cozy evening hot chocolate. The rich Nutella flavor complements warm beverages beautifully.
• **Elegant Dessert Platter:** Arrange them beautifully on a dessert platter for a party or special gathering. Their mini size makes them perfect for grazing, and they add a charming homemade touch to any spread.
• **Thoughtful Gift Idea:** Package a few freshly baked hand pies in a decorative box or clear cellophane bag tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful, homemade gift that friends, family, or neighbors will adore.
• **Breakfast Treat:** While definitely a dessert, a single hand pie makes for a delightful and indulgent breakfast treat alongside a cup of fruit.

Whether you’re celebrating the wonder of Pi Day, looking for an easy yet impressive dessert, or simply craving something sweet and chocolatey, these Mini Nutella Hand Pies are your answer. They’re quick to assemble (especially with a pre-made crust), simple to bake, and guaranteed to bring smiles. So go ahead, bake a batch and share the joy of these perfectly portioned, utterly delicious treats!