If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as charming as it is irresistible, Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies are about to steal the show. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust hugging a dreamy, tangy cream cheese center, all studded with juicy cherry pie filling—each bite delivers the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and creamy. The best part? These adorable hand pies come together in just minutes, right in your air fryer! Whether you’re hosting a get-together or craving a midweek treat, this recipe makes dessert feel extra-special without any fuss. If you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself, Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies are a must-try!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of luscious flavor and texture, coming together for a dessert that’s both easy to make and downright crave-worthy.
- Refrigerated pie crust: Provides a reliable, flaky foundation that keeps prep quick and mess-free, but feel free to use your homemade favorite.
- Cream cheese (softened): Creates a rich, velvety center that balances the fruit’s brightness.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect hint of sweetness to the creamy filling.
- Vanilla extract: One splash brings out all the luscious flavors in the cream cheese base.
- Cherry pie filling: Bursts with vibrant fruitiness and an inviting ruby color.
- Egg (beaten): Teams up with milk to give the pies a beautifully golden, shiny crust.
- Milk: When mixed with the egg, helps achieve that perfectly browned finish you crave.
- Powdered sugar (optional): Just a light dusting adds extra sweetness and a bakery-worthy look.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures those hand pies lift right out of your air fryer with no sticking behind.
How to Make Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out your refrigerated pie crust to smooth out any creases and create a bit more room for fillings. Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter to cut the dough into 4–6 equal pieces—rectangles or circles work beautifully, depending on your mood or cookie cutter collection!
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s creamy and smooth. This luscious blend will be the sweet, tangy heart of your hand pies—don’t be afraid to sneak a little taste!
Step 3: Fill the Hand Pies
Spoon a generous dollop of your cream cheese mixture into the center of each pie crust piece, then add a spoonful of cherry pie filling right on top. Make sure to keep some space around the edges; this step is the secret to sealing in all that goodness with minimal mess.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Carefully fold each crust over the filling to form neat pockets, then use the tines of a fork to press the edges together and seal them shut. This not only holds in the sweet, creamy filling but also gives your hand pies a charming, classic look that’s hard to resist.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Cook
Whisk the beaten egg with the tablespoon of milk, then brush this mixture over the tops of the sealed hand pies. This step guarantees a golden, glossy finish that makes them look straight out of a bakery. Lightly spray your air fryer basket with nonstick spray, then arrange the hand pies inside—leaving a bit of space so the hot air can work its magic. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and irresistible.
Step 6: Cool and Dust
Let the hand pies cool for a few minutes after air frying—the filling will be hot! Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet hint and that bakery-style charm. Now step back and admire your homemade Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies before digging in!
How to Serve Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of snowy sweetness. A few fresh mint leaves or a light drizzle of melted white chocolate are also gorgeous finishing touches that take these treats to the next level.
Side Dishes
Pair your hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert plate. If you’re feeling fruity, serve alongside a bowl of mixed berries or sliced peaches to complement the cherry filling and add a refreshing note.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the hand pies on a pretty cake stand or a rustic wooden board for an effortlessly elegant display at parties or picnics. Wrap them individually in parchment squares and tie with baker’s twine for adorable grab-and-go treats—perfect for gifting or lunchbox surprises!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them fully cool before storing to prevent condensation from making the crust soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze baked hand pies for a future treat! Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat straight from the freezer for an easy snack.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat your hand pies in the air fryer at 300°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispiness. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave will do, but the crust might be a bit softer.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you have a go-to homemade pie crust recipe, it will work beautifully in Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies. Just roll the dough to a similar thickness for even cooking.
What other fillings can I use?
Get creative! Blueberry, apple, or raspberry pie filling are all delicious swaps. You can even mix in a little chocolate spread or nut butter if you want extra decadence.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
The trick is not to overfill each pie and to seal the edges firmly with a fork. If you notice cracks, pinch the dough together before air frying, and avoid letting the filling touch the very edge of the crust.
Do I need to flip the hand pies in the air fryer?
No flipping necessary! Just be sure to leave enough space between each pie so hot air circulates around them, ensuring even browning on all sides.
Can I make these gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes! Swap in gluten-free pie crust and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Be sure to use a milk substitute or water for the egg wash if needed, and check your pie filling for any hidden allergens.
Final Thoughts
If you love easy, showstopping treats, you’ll adore making Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies. They’re quick, irresistible, and guaranteed to spark smiles with every bite. Don’t wait—grab your air fryer and discover just how delicious and fun homemade hand pies can be!
Print
Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Cherry Cream Cheese Hand Pies are a delightful dessert that combines flaky pie crust with a creamy, sweet filling. The air fryer gives them a perfectly crisp exterior with a warm, gooey center. A simple yet impressive treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 sheet refrigerated pie crust (or homemade)
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cherry Filling:
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling
Other:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface and cut into 4–6 equal rectangles or circles.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble Hand Pies: Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each pie crust piece, then top with cherry pie filling. Fold the dough over the filling, press the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the tops with a mixture of beaten egg and milk.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray, place hand pies inside, and air fry for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, apple, or your favorite fruit filling.
- Ensure not to overfill the pies to prevent leaking during cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
