A hand pie is a small, portable pastry that is typically filled with a sweet or savory filling and baked or fried. Hand pies belong to a broad, worldwide family of pastry-wrapped, hand-held pies that also includes the Cornish pasty and the empanada; in the United States, the term is most closely associated with the fried or baked fruit pies long made in the American South and Appalachia, where they served as a practical, portable meal for farmers, laborers, and travelers.
The basic construction of a hand pie involves wrapping a small portion of filling in a flaky pastry dough, which is then either baked or fried until golden brown. The dough is usually made from a simple combination of flour, fat (such as butter or shortening), and water, and can be either homemade or store-bought. The fillings can vary widely, with both sweet and savory options being common. Popular sweet fillings include fruit preserves, cooked fruit, sweetened cream cheese, or nut-based fillings, while savory fillings might include meat, cheese, vegetables, or a combination of these.
Hand pies are often associated with traditional Southern cuisine, where they were a common lunch or snack food. They were easy to pack and transport, and provided a satisfying and portable meal. In the Appalachian region, hand pies were sometimes called "fried pies" or "mountain pies," and were often made with dried fruit fillings such as apple, peach, or cherry. In other parts of the South, hand pies might be filled with ingredients like pecan, sweet potato, or even savory fillings like chicken or beef.
Today, hand pies have gained popularity beyond their Southern roots and can be found in bakeries, cafes, and even gourmet food trucks across the United States and beyond. While the classic fruit-filled hand pie remains a popular option, modern interpretations have expanded to include a wide range of creative and unexpected fillings, from breakfast-inspired ingredients like bacon and egg to more indulgent options like chocolate or caramel.
In terms of practical applications, hand pies are a versatile and convenient option for a variety of occasions. They can be served as a snack, a portable lunch, or even as a dessert. They are also a popular option for catering and events, as they can be easily portioned and served. Additionally, hand pies can be made in advance and frozen, making them a convenient option for busy home cooks who want to have a quick and easy treat on hand.