Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Name: Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 60 g granulated sugar; 113 g cream cheese, softened; 595 g cherry pie filling (canned); Refrigerated pie crusts, sufficient for 6 hand pies; 60 g powdered sugar; 5 ml corn syrup; 15 ml water; Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Author: Lora

Published: November 30, 2025

Print Recipe

Introduction to Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

As a home cook who thrives on creating delightful experiences, I can’t wait to share my secret to the perfect treat: Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies. These little gems are not only charming but also pack a flavor punch! Whether you’re gearing up for a busy day or need something special to impress loved ones, these hand pies are your go-to solution. Imagine creamy, rich cheesecake wrapped in a crispy crust, infused with the sweetness of cherries. Trust me, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

These Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies are a blissful combination of taste and convenience. They’re not just easy to make; they’re also the perfect solution for busy days. With a quick preparation and fried to golden perfection, they’re an instant crowd-pleaser. Plus, who can resist that crispy crust cradling creamy filling and tart cherries? Each bite feels like a little hug, bringing warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table.

Ingredients for Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For these Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies, you’ll need a few staples that come together beautifully to create that heavenly treat. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Granulated sugar – This sweetener enhances the creaminess of the filling, creating that rich cheesecake flavor.
Cream cheese – The star ingredient that adds decadence and a luxurious texture to your filling.
Cherry pie filling – Use your favorite canned filling or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! The tartness of cherries perfectly balances the sweetness.
Refrigerated pie crusts – For a quick and flaky base, store-bought pie crusts save you time without sacrificing taste.
Powdered sugar – This light sugar gives you that gorgeous glaze and a touch of sweetness.
Corn syrup – It adds shine to your glaze and helps it stick to the pies. Feel free to substitute with honey if you prefer.
Water – A small amount to mix with your glaze, making it just the right consistency for brushing over your hand pies.
Vegetable oil – Essential for deep frying, this creates that perfect crispy texture on the outside of your hand pies.

Remember, quantities for printing are at the end of the article to help you grab exactly what you need!

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Prepare the Oil for Frying

To create the perfect crispy exterior on your Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies, it’s essential to start with properly heated oil. Fill a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with vegetable oil, about 10–12 cm deep. This depth allows the pies to float, cooking evenly. Attach a cooking thermometer to check the temperature. Heat the oil to 190°C, ensuring you maintain this temperature as you fry. If it’s too hot, the pies will burn; too cold, and they’ll absorb oil and turn soggy. Trust me, this step is crucial for achieving that golden crunch!

Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Now let’s whip up that delicious filling! In a medium mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and softened cream cheese. Using a hand mixer, beat this mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. The sugar melts into the cream cheese, making the filling dreamy and luscious. I always make sure to taste a tiny bit—it’s that good! Set this mixture aside, ready to embrace the cherries.

Cut Out the Pie Crusts

Next up is the fun part—cutting out those pie crusts! Unroll your refrigerated pie crust onto a lightly floured surface. This step is always a little messy, but that’s part of the charm! Using a bowl about 13–15 cm in diameter, cut out six circles. If your dough is a bit thin, you can gently roll it out to get extra rounds. The key here is to have even circles, which help seal in all the delicious filling perfectly. Plus, they’ll look adorable!

Assemble the Hand Pies

Assembly time! On each dough round, spread a generous heaping tablespoon—about 20 g—of that creamy filling. Now, take 30 g of cherry pie filling and place it on top of the cream cheese. The combo of sweet cherry and rich filling is simply heavenly! Lightly brush water around the edge of each dough round to help seal them. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch and crimp each edge securely. This ensures no filling escapes while frying. Your hand pies are starting to take shape, and it’s truly exciting!

Fry the Hand Pies

With your hand pies assembled, it’s time to fry! Carefully lower one pie into the preheated oil. Fry for about 2–3 minutes, turning gently to achieve an even golden brown all over. I suggest using a slotted utensil to handle the pies; it helps avoid any splatters! If they darken too quickly, lower the heat a touch. Once done, remove the pies and let them drain on paper towels. Keep a close watch—they’ll disappear quickly!

Glaze the Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Finally, let’s add that irresistible glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, corn syrup, and water until you have a smooth consistency. As soon as the pies are still warm, brush both sides with the glaze using a pastry brush. This adds not only sweetness but also a beautiful finish to your hand pies. Let them rest on a wire rack or parchment-lined tray, allowing the glaze to set. The sweet aroma will have everyone in the house perked up in anticipation!

Tips for Success

Always preheat your oil to the right temperature for crispy results.
Use a hand mixer to achieve a smooth cream cheese filling—no lumps allowed!
Keep assembled hand pies covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying before frying.
When frying, don’t overcrowd the pot; fry in batches for even cooking.
Experiment with different fillings—blueberry, apple, or even chocolate work well!

Equipment Needed for Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven – For frying, you can use a large skillet as an alternative.
Cooking thermometer – Essential for checking oil temperature. If you don’t have one, just test the oil with a small piece of dough.
Mixing bowls – Any mixing bowl will do; just ensure it’s large enough to fit your ingredients.
Pastry brush – Use for glazing. A clean paintbrush also works in a pinch!
Slotted utensil – Helps in safely lifting the hand pies from the oil. A slotted spoon can substitute as well.

Variations of Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Berry Bliss: Swap out the cherry pie filling for a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a delightful summer treat.
Chocolate Cherries: Add a layer of chocolate ganache inside before the cream cheese filling for a rich, decadent twist.
Peachy Keen: Use peach pie filling instead of cherry for a tropical take on this classic dessert.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute traditional pie crust with gluten-free dough available at most grocery stores.
Cinnamon Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture for a warming flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.
Nutty Delight: Mix crushed nuts like pecans or almonds into the cherry filling for added crunch and a nutty flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a light, fluffy contrast.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Brew a cup of herbal tea to complement the sweetness of the hand pies.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color and freshness.
Present on a colorful platter, dusted with powdered sugar for an extra special touch.

FAQs about Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Are you curious about making Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies? Let’s dive into some common questions that I often hear from fellow home cooks. These tips and tricks will help you create the perfect batch!

Can I make these hand pies in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the hand pies a day before frying. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator to prevent drying out. Fry them just before serving for that fresh, crispy texture!

How do I store leftover hand pies?

Store any uneaten Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember; warmth is the best companion for crispy hand pies!

Can I freeze Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies?

Yes, freezing is a great option! Assemble the hand pies without frying, then freeze them on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry them directly from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy a treat!

What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?

If cherries aren’t your thing, feel free to swap in your favorite fruit filling! Blueberries, apples, or even a chocolate spread can replace the cherry pie filling. The cream cheese fits harmoniously with various flavors!

Can I bake the hand pies instead of frying?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the assembled hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and brush them with egg wash. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Just remember, baking will change the texture a bit!

Final Thoughts on Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies

Creating Cherry Cheesecake Hand Pies is more than just making a dessert; it’s about sharing joy and warmth with those you love. Each bite is a delicious adventure, merging flavors and textures that dance together delightfully. With this recipe under your belt, you have a quick solution for busy days and an impressive treat for gatherings. I love how they bring smiles around the table, sparking conversations and sweet memories. So roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and experience the happiness these delectable pies can bring to your home!