If you’ve ever wished you could bring that nostalgic campfire s’mores experience right into your kitchen—without the mess or a fire pit—buttery s’mores hand pies are your dream come true. Imagine biting into a golden, flaky crust bursting with gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate. Add in the warm, rich flavor of butter and graham crackers, and you’ve got a comforting dessert that tastes like summer memories in every bite. These hand pies are easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself. Check out our dessert section for more sweet creations like this.
Table of Contents
What Are Buttery S’mores Hand Pies?
A Sweet Twist on the Classic S’mores
Everyone loves s’mores—the iconic combination of chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and graham crackers is a classic treat for a reason. But buttery s’mores hand pies take things up a notch by wrapping those ingredients in a soft, flaky pastry crust. Unlike traditional s’mores that crumble or melt in your hands, hand pies are neat, portable, and satisfying. Each bite offers a balanced mix of crispy crust and molten center, making them a standout upgrade to the fireside favorite.
Why the “Buttery” Matters
Butter isn’t just for flavor—it’s what turns these hand pies from good to unforgettable. A buttery pie crust bakes up golden brown and adds a soft crunch that complements the smooth filling inside. The extra fat content from butter also helps seal in moisture and enhances the mouthfeel. If you’re using store-bought dough, brushing it with melted butter before baking adds richness and depth. Trust us, skipping the butter would be a huge miss.
Ingredients You’ll Need for S’mores Hand Pies
Basic Pantry Staples
To create the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and chocolatey, you’ll need just a few pantry staples:
- Pie crust – You can use refrigerated, pre-made dough, or go the homemade route for more control over flavor and texture.
- Mini marshmallows – These melt faster and more evenly, helping to create that gooey core.
- Chocolate chips or squares – Go for semi-sweet or dark chocolate for deeper flavor, but milk chocolate works for a classic touch.
- Crushed graham crackers – Adds that essential crunch and flavor signature to s’mores.
- Unsalted butter – For flavor and crust enhancement.
- Egg – Used for brushing the tops of the pies for a shiny, golden finish.
Optional Flavor Boosts
If you want to get creative, try some delicious add-ins:
- Sea salt for a salted caramel-like contrast
- Peanut butter or Nutella for extra richness
- Cinnamon-sugar sprinkled on top for a crunchy, spiced finish
How to Make Buttery S’mores Hand Pies
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use a biscuit cutter or glass to create even-sized circles (about 4 inches in diameter).
- Layer the filling in the center of each dough piece. Start with chocolate, then marshmallows, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, and a small cube of butter.
- Fold over the dough, creating a half-moon or square shape, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. This step is key to keeping the filling inside while baking.
- Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar (if desired), and bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overfill: It’s tempting to load them up, but too much filling leads to bursting and mess.
- Chill before baking: Letting the pies rest in the fridge for 10 minutes helps the crust firm up and keeps its shape.
- Use vent slits: Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape and avoid soggy centers.
Storage & Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Once the pies have cooled, store them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. They’ll keep for up to three days at room temperature, or up to five days if stored in the refrigerator.
Best Reheating Methods
To bring them back to crispy, warm perfection, reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 3–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust soft and rubbery rather than flaky.
Serving Ideas for Buttery S’mores Hand Pies
Perfect Occasions
These hand pies are endlessly versatile and suitable for many occasions:
- BBQs and picnics where outdoor eating is messy
- Kids’ parties for a less sticky alternative to traditional s’mores
- Camping trips where ovens are available
- Holiday dessert tables as an unexpected sweet treat
Tasty Pairings
Pair your warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla bean or salted caramel ice cream. You can also drizzle chocolate syrup or caramel on top, or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. A mug of hot cocoa or cold milk on the side makes for a classic comfort-food experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overfilling the Pie
It’s easy to get carried away with chocolate and marshmallows, but too much filling causes leaks during baking. The trick is to add just enough for flavor without compromising the seal.
Skipping the Egg Wash
An egg wash isn’t just for looks—it creates a golden, crisp finish that makes the crust more appealing and flavorful. Without it, your pies might taste flat and appear dull in color.
FAQs About Buttery S’mores Hand Pies
How do you keep hand pies from getting soggy?
Sogginess comes from steam and excess moisture. Make sure to chill your pies before baking, use thick chocolate or chips (not sauce), and don’t skip vent slits. Sealing edges tightly also helps reduce leaks.
What is the difference between a pasty and a hand pie?
A pasty is typically a savory meat-and-veg pie with a thick crust, common in British cuisine. A hand pie, on the other hand, can be either sweet or savory and usually features a lighter, flakier crust. Our buttery s’mores hand pies are a dessert variation filled with sweets, not meats.
What are the South American hand pies known for their savory fillings?
Those would be empanadas. These pastry pockets are stuffed with spiced beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables and are popular across Latin America. They’re usually baked or fried and offer savory flavor profiles, unlike our sweet s’mores version.
Is there such a thing as butter pie?
Yes! Butter pie is a traditional British savory dish from Lancashire, made with potatoes and onions encased in a butter-rich crust. It’s completely different in flavor from sweet butter-based desserts like hand pies.
Why is it called a crack pie?
Crack pie gained fame through Milk Bar bakery and is named for its incredibly addictive taste. It features a rich filling made from butter, sugar, and powdered milk in an oat crust. Though the name is controversial, its buttery, indulgent nature is what keeps people coming back for more.
Conclusion
Whether you’re prepping for a party, a cozy night in, or just need something indulgent and fast, buttery s’mores hand pies hit all the right notes. They’re easy to make, hard to resist, and customizable to your taste. The buttery crust gives them a rich base, while the chocolate and marshmallow filling delivers that nostalgic flavor you crave. For more irresistible dessert ideas, don’t miss our sweet pie recipe collection and chocolate pastry guides.
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