There’s something magical about the crackle of a campfire and the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and toasted marshmallows that instantly takes me back to my childhood. S’mores Hand Pies bring that nostalgic essence right into your kitchen without the need for an outdoor fire pit. This recipe combines the playful flavors of s’mores in a portable, flaky pastry that’s perfect for dessert lovers of all ages. Not only are these pies a delight to make—ready in just 30 minutes—but they also make for an impressive yet simple treat to share at gatherings. Plus, using an air fryer means you’ll enjoy that golden-brown crust with less guilt and easier cleanup. Are you ready to transform a classic campfire favorite into a handheld joy? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why are S’mores Hand Pies a must-try?
Nostalgic Flavors: Each bite of these hand pies brings the childhood joy of s'mores straight to your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, they’re perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous dessert cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a family gathering or a picnic, these pies are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Air Fryer Convenience: Enjoy that crispy golden crust with less oil, making this a guilt-free indulgence!
Fun to Make: Get creative! Involve the kids in assembling the filling for a delightful family activity.
S’mores Hand Pies Ingredients
• Gather your supplies and let the fun begin!
For the Pie Crust
- Refrigerated pie crusts – A convenient choice that saves time and ensures flaky perfection.
For the Filling
- Chocolate bars (chopped) – Rich and creamy chocolate adds a decadent touch to your hand pies.
- Miniature marshmallows – These sweet treats provide that classic gooey texture reminiscent of traditional s’mores.
- Crushed graham crackers (divided) – Adds crunch and that signature s’mores flavor.
For Sealing
- Water – A simple touch to ensure your hand pies seal well; no one wants a chocolate explosion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by letting the refrigerated pie crusts sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This makes the dough easier to handle and roll out. While you wait, preheat your air fryer to 350°F for even cooking later on. You'll know it's ready when the temperature indicator signals that it's hot.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. Stir until everything is evenly mixed, creating a delicious filling that captures the essence of s’mores. This mixture should be gooey and colorful, ready to be placed in your hand pies.
Step 3: Cut the Dough
Using a 3-inch cookie cutter, cut out circles from the pie crust. Aim for about 24 circles, placing half of them on a clean, flat surface. These will form the base of your S’mores Hand Pies. You want them to be uniform in size for even cooking, so make sure to press down firmly as you cut.
Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as it may cause spillage when frying. As you work, keep the circles organized and ready to top with the remaining dough. The filling should be heaped but not overflowing, allowing for easy sealing.
Step 5: Seal the Edges
Moisten the edges of each dough circle with a fingertip dipped in water. This simple step ensures your S’mores Hand Pies will be sealed securely. Next, place the remaining dough circles on top of the filled ones, pressing down firmly around the edges. For a fun finish, you can crimp the edges with a fork to create decorative patterns.
Step 6: Air Fry the Hand Pies
Once assembled, lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the S’mores Hand Pies in the basket without overcrowding, allowing space for air to circulate. Air fry them for about 10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crisp. You’ll know they’re done by their delightful golden color and aroma.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After air frying, carefully remove the hand pies from the basket and let them cool for a couple of minutes on a wire rack. This step prevents the filling from being too hot and gooey when you take your first bite. Once slightly cooled, they are ready to enjoy—a perfect handheld dessert treat that brings the joy of s’mores anywhere!
S’mores Hand Pies Variations
Get ready to elevate your S’mores Hand Pies with delicious twists and substitutions that delight the senses!
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Nutty Delight: Add ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, to the filling for an extra crunch. It brings a satisfying texture that complements the soft marshmallows beautifully.
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Peanut Butter Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter with the chocolate for a rich, nutty flavor. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is simply irresistible!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper into the filling for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness. This twist will add an exciting kick to your dessert experience.
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Fruitful Fusion: Toss in a few fresh raspberries or strawberries into the filling for a fruity contrast to the chocolate. The fresh berries will burst with flavor, creating a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crusts and crushed gluten-free graham crackers for a delicious treat that caters to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor. Your pies will still be flaky and scrumptious!
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Vegan Variation: Swap the chocolate for dairy-free chocolate and replace the marshmallows with coconut whipped cream for a vegan twist. You won’t miss the regular ingredients when those flavors come together!
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S’mores Bites: Instead of hand pies, create bite-sized versions using mini cookie cutters filled with the same ingredients for a cute party appetizer. These little treats are perfect for sharing at any gathering.
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Coconut Addition: Sprinkle shredded coconut into the filling for a tropical touch that plays beautifully with the s'mores theme. The coconut adds a delightful chewiness and an exotic flair.
Make Ahead Options
These S’mores Hand Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert with minimal effort during the week. You can prepare the filling (chopped chocolate, miniature marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers) up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can assemble the hand pies up to 24 hours ahead of time; just make sure to keep them covered to prevent the dough from drying out. When you're ready to enjoy, air fry them straight from the fridge for that crispy, golden-brown exterior. Trust me, these hand pies remain just as delicious and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
What to Serve with S’mores Hand Pies
S’mores Hand Pies are a delightful sweet treat, and pairing them with the right sides can elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture provides a perfect contrast to the warm, flaky hand pies, making every bite decadent.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce adds a rich touch, amplifying the chocolatey goodness and making it an indulgent dessert experience.
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Fresh Berries: A side of strawberries or raspberries introduces a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness and enriches the flavor profile.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it complements the hand pies beautifully, providing a luxurious finish to your dessert.
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S'mores Dip: For true s'mores lovers, serve a gooey s'mores dip on the side for extra fun. It invites guests to get creative by spreading it over their hand pies!
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Mint Tea: A refreshing mint tea would cleanse the palate after that sweet treat, adding a soothing conclusion to your meal.
These pairings will not only complement the delightful S’mores Hand Pies but also create a memorable and enjoyable dessert experience for everyone!
Expert Tips for S’mores Hand Pies
- Dough Handling: Let the pie crusts sit at room temperature for easier rolling and cutting, preventing tearing.
- Filling Amount: Use about 1 tablespoon of filling per pie to avoid overflow during cooking, which can create a messy air fryer.
- Sealing Technique: Moisten the edges with water before sealing to ensure a secure closure—this keeps your delicious filling inside!
- Air Fryer Space: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give these hand pies enough room to crisp up beautifully for the best results.
- Cooling Time: Allow the hand pies to cool for a few minutes after cooking. This prevents burns and helps the filling set slightly for a better eating experience.
How to Store and Freeze S’mores Hand Pies
Fridge: Store leftover S’mores Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen hand pies directly in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Thawing: If you prefer, thaw frozen S’mores Hand Pies in the fridge overnight before reheating for a quicker treat!
S’mores Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose chocolate bars for my filling?
Absolutely! When selecting chocolate bars, look for high-quality brands with a cocoa content above 60% for a richer flavor. Avoid chocolate that feels too soft or has a shiny surface; it should be firm and break cleanly. Dark chocolate works wonderfully, but milk chocolate is a great option if you prefer a sweeter taste.
How long will my S’mores Hand Pies stay fresh in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftover S’mores Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess. Enjoy them cold or reheat them for that warm, gooey experience!
Can I freeze S’mores Hand Pies, and how do I do it?
Definitely! For freezing, wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap to protect them from freezer burn. Place the wrapped pies into a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat them straight from the freezer in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they're warmed through and crispy.
What should I do if the filling spills out during cooking?
Oh no! If your filling spills out, don’t fret. It typically happens when they're overfilled. To avoid this, stick to about 1 tablespoon of filling per pie and ensure your edges are well-moistened before sealing. If it does spill, it simply adds extra deliciousness to the air fryer; just keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent burning.
Are S’mores Hand Pies safe for pets?
No, it's best to keep these treats away from your furry friends. Chocolate and marshmallows can be harmful to pets, so please enjoy them yourself! If you're looking to share a delicious snack with your dog, consider making a separate pet-friendly treat—after all, the more the merrier!
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you want to take it up a notch, you can use a homemade pie crust. Just ensure it’s well-chilled and rolled out to the same thickness as the refrigerated variety for even cooking. The time and effort will be worth that flaky, buttery crust in your S’mores Hand Pies!
Irresistibly Indulgent S’mores Hand Pies Made Easy
Equipment
- Air fryer
- mixing bowl
- Cookie cutter
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 2 crusts Refrigerated pie crusts A convenient choice that saves time and ensures flaky perfection.
For the Filling
- 2 bars Chocolate bars (chopped) Rich and creamy chocolate adds a decadent touch.
- 1 cup Miniature marshmallows These sweet treats provide the classic gooey texture.
- 1 cup Crushed graham crackers (divided) Adds crunch and that signature s’mores flavor.
For Sealing
- 1 tablespoon Water To ensure your hand pies seal well.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for S’mores Hand Pies
- Let the refrigerated pie crusts sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- Combine chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers in a medium mixing bowl. Stir to mix.
- Using a 3-inch cookie cutter, cut out about 24 circles from the pie crust. Press down firmly as you cut.
- Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of the filling into the center of each dough circle, keeping them organized.
- Moisten the edges of each dough circle with water, place the remaining dough circles on top, and press down to seal.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Place the hand pies in the basket and air fry for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove the hand pies and let them cool for a couple of minutes on a wire rack before serving.
