If you’re a fan of sweet, fruity desserts with a crispy, golden touch, these Air Fryer Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies are going to become your go-to treat! These delicious handheld pies bring together the irresistible combination of sweet Nutella and fresh strawberries, wrapped in flaky puff pastry and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Not only are they easy to make, but they also come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion—from a casual snack to a dessert for guests.
The air fryer method makes these hand pies delightfully crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier yet still indulgent option. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a winner. The warm, gooey filling paired with the crisp, flaky pastry is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to get you started on this simple and mouth-watering recipe!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Puff Pastry Sheets: Puff pastry is the key to achieving that perfect flaky texture. It serves as the base for the hand pies, holding in the creamy Nutella and juicy strawberries. You’ll need pre-rolled puff pastry to save time, or you can make it from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous!
Nutella: Nutella is the star of the show here, providing a rich, chocolate-hazelnut filling that melts wonderfully in the oven. Its smooth and creamy texture makes it the perfect ingredient to balance out the tartness of the strawberries.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are essential for adding a burst of fruity sweetness to the hand pies. They pair beautifully with the Nutella and create a delightful contrast in texture with the pastry.
Egg: The egg will be used to brush the pastry before baking. This gives the hand pies a beautiful, golden-brown finish and a glossy shine that makes them even more irresistible.
Sugar: A sprinkle of sugar on top of the hand pies before baking adds a sweet crunch to the crust and enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.
Ingredients List
- 1 sheet of Puff Pastry (thawed if frozen)
- 1/4 cup Nutella
- 1/4 cup Fresh Strawberries (diced)
- 1 Egg (beaten for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon Sugar (for sprinkling on top)
How to Make Air Fryer Strawberry Nutella Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and dicing the fresh strawberries into small pieces. This will allow them to cook evenly inside the hand pies. Then, prepare your puff pastry sheet by cutting it into squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer for your hand pies.
Step 2: Assemble the Hand Pies
Take a small spoonful of Nutella and spread it across the center of each pastry square. Add a few pieces of diced strawberries on top of the Nutella. Be careful not to overfill them, as the filling might spill out during cooking.
Step 3: Seal the Pies
Fold the puff pastry over the filling to form a pocket or triangle shape, depending on the cut. Use a fork to press down the edges to seal the hand pies securely.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Sugar
Brush the tops of the hand pies with a beaten egg to give them that golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle a light dusting of sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch.
Step 5: Air Fry the Hand Pies
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure there is some space between them for air circulation. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Overfill the Pies: When adding the Nutella and strawberries, be sure not to overfill them. Too much filling can cause the pies to burst open during cooking.
- Use Fresh Pastry: If you have the option, use fresh, refrigerated puff pastry instead of frozen to ensure the best texture.
- Flip for Even Cooking: Depending on your air fryer model, flipping the hand pies halfway through the cooking process can help ensure they cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist. You could also add a bit of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the Nutella for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen puff pastry, but make sure to thaw it completely before using it to ensure it’s easy to work with.
Can I make these hand pies in the oven instead of an air fryer? Absolutely! You can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Can I make these hand pies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the hand pies and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking them. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent the pastry from drying out.
What can I serve these hand pies with? These hand pies are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.