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As the summer sun dips below the horizon, there’s nothing quite like the anticipation of toasting marshmallows over an open flame. But what if I told you that you could capture that nostalgic campfire magic in the form of a delicious hand-held treat? Enter my Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies—an effortless twist on a classic favorite! Filled with rich chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, each bite is a nostalgic trip back to lazy nights spent under the stars.

These delightful pastries are not just about flavor; they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal dessert for both gatherings and quiet nights at home. Perfectly portable, you can enjoy them on a picnic, at a barbecue, or even as a sweet treat after a long day—without lighting a fire! Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or simply indulging your cravings, these buttery hand pies deliver all the joy of s’mores with none of the fuss. Let’s dive into this simple recipe and create something truly special together!

Why are Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies irresistible?

Nostalgic Bliss: Each bite transports you back to carefree summer nights spent roasting marshmallows over a campfire.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily recreate a beloved classic in your own kitchen.
Portable Delight: Perfect for picnics or BBQs, these hand pies let you enjoy s’mores on-the-go without the need for an open flame.
Versatile Flavor: Customize your filling with different chocolates or even a hint of peanut butter for added richness and flair.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for gatherings or quiet evenings, they satisfy sweet cravings and impress guests alike.
Perfectly Flaky: The buttery crust crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you the ultimate satisfying texture.

Buttery S’Mores Hand Pie Ingredients

For the Crust
• Refrigerated Pie Crust – A convenient base, store-bought options save time; let it warm at room temperature to avoid cracking.
• Melted Salted Butter – Adds richness and promotes that golden crust; brush on top before baking for a delightfully shiny finish.

For the Filling
• Chocolate Bars – Essential for indulgence; chopping them into pieces allows for a gooey texture when baked.
• Miniature Marshmallows – Bring that sweetness and classic s’mores flavor; these are crucial for the gooey filling!
• Crushed Graham Crackers – They enhance flavor and texture; mix some in the filling and sprinkle more on the baking sheet for crunch.

For Garnish
• Cinnamon Sugar (optional) – Adds a delightful sweetness and aroma; sprinkle on top before baking for an extra flavor kick.

These Buttery S’mores Hand Pies are not just treats; they’re a nostalgic journey that will warm your heart with every bite!

How to Make Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies

Prepare the Dough: Allow the refrigerated pie crusts to come to room temperature, about 15-20 minutes. This makes them easier to roll out and cut without cracking.
Cut Circles: Use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut out 3-inch circles from the dough. You’ll need enough circles to cover the filling, so feel free to roll out any scraps!
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the chopped chocolate bars, miniature marshmallows, and half of the crushed graham crackers. This sweet medley captures the essence of traditional s’mores.
Assemble Pies: Take one dough circle, place about one tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center, and moisten the edges with water. Top it with another dough circle, pressing down gently to seal.
Seal and Decorate: Use a fork to crimp the edges, making a decorative seal while ensuring no filling escapes. Brush the tops with melted butter, then sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs.
Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F to preheat, ensuring the pies cook evenly and achieve that golden perfection.
Air Fry the Hand Pies: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place 2-4 hand pies inside, leaving some space between each. Air fry for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Once done, transfer the hand pies to a wire rack to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally with chocolate syrup or marshmallow cream for dipping.

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Keep hand pies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; ensure they’re in a sealed container to avoid absorbing any odors.
Freezer (Unbaked): Freeze unbaked hand pies for up to 3 months. Just layer them between parchment paper and store in an airtight container.
Reheating: Reheat baked hand pies in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore that flaky texture, making these Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies just as delightful as when they were fresh!

Expert Tips for Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies

Proper Filling Amount: Keep to about one tablespoon of filling to avoid bursting; overstuffed pies may not seal properly.
Edge Sealing: Moisten edges with water and crimp with a fork for a secure seal. This prevents filling from leaking during cooking.
Steam Poking: Don’t forget to poke holes in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape, helping you avoid soggy bottoms.
Baking Watch: Monitor the air frying time closely; the goal is a perfectly golden-brown finish without burnt marshmallows.
Cooling Time: Allow the hand pies to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes; this helps the filling set while keeping the crust nice and crispy.

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies are a dream for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling (chopped chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can assemble unbaked hand pies up to 24 hours ahead. Just place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to air fry. This ensures the crust remains flaky and the filling stays gooey. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply follow the air frying instructions straight from the fridge for a delicious treat with minimal effort!

Buttery S’Mores Hand Pie Variations

Unlock your creativity in the kitchen by tailoring these delightful hand pies to suit your taste!

Chocolate Types: Use dark, milk, or white chocolate bars for a flavor adventure—experimenting can lead to your favorite version!
Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a dollop of peanut butter to the filling before sealing for a rich, nutty surprise in every bite.
Flavored Chocolate: Try mint or caramel chocolate bars for a unique twist that elevates the classic s’mores experience.
Fruit Add-ins: Toss in some fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries alongside the filling for a burst of fruity flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Integrate chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds to add both crunch and depth to the filling.
Spiced Variation: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or even nutmeg to inspire a warm, cozy fall vibe that complements the chocolate.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crust to make these treats accessible for everyone; they won’t compromise on flavor!
Heat it Up: Add a hint of cayenne pepper or jalapeño infusions to the filling for a deliciously surprising spicy kick.

Feel free to blend and match these ideas to create your own version of these delightful hand pies!

What to Serve with Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies?

Indulge in the bliss of summer nostalgia with these delightful hand pies, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.

Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing that complements the rich chocolate and gooey marshmallows, adding a creamy texture to each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla balances the warm, melty filling, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
Chocolate Syrup Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle on top elevates the dessert further, intensifying that sweet, decadent experience.
Marshmallow Cream Dip: Enhance the s’mores essence by serving with a fluffy, sweet dip that echoes the hand pie’s filling.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side brings a burst of color and flavor; the freshness of fruits contrasts beautifully with the richness of the pie.
Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate rounds out the experience, making it feel like a cozy evening by the campfire, even if you’re indoors.
Iced Coffee: For those who appreciate a little caffeine kick, an iced coffee can provide a delightful zing while balancing the sweetness of the pies.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a hint of cinnamon sugar over the pies right before serving for an extra flavor boost that cozily enhances the indulgence.

These pairings will not only elevate your Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies experience but also create a full, satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to any occasion!

Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chocolate bars for the filling?
Absolutely! Choosing the right chocolate can really enhance the flavor of your Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies. I recommend using high-quality chocolate bars, preferably with at least 60% cocoa content for a rich taste. Dark chocolate brings a slight bitterness, which beautifully counters the sweetness of the marshmallows, while milk chocolate makes for a classic, sweeter filling. For a fun twist, try flavored chocolate bars, like caramel or mint!

How should I store my hand pies for best freshness?
To keep your Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days. If you have leftovers, popping them in the fridge will extend their life to about 4 days! Just be sure to seal them tightly to avoid any fridge odors from affecting their taste.

Can I freeze my hand pies? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies! To freeze them unbaked, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container, where they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw them—just pop them in the air fryer straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

What should I do if my hand pies are bursting?
Very! If your pies are bursting during baking, it’s most likely due to overfilling. Always keep your filling to about one tablespoon per pie. Additionally, ensure the edges are properly sealed with a light touch of water and a nice crimp with a fork. Poking a few holes in the top allows steam to escape and reduce pressure inside the pie.

Can dogs eat these hand pies?
While your furry friends might be curious about those Buttery S’Mores Hand Pies, it’s best to keep them away! Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health issues. Additionally, the pie crust and sugar might upset their tummy. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly treat, consider baking dog-friendly biscuits instead!

What can I do if the crust isn’t flaky after baking?
If you find your crust isn’t turning out flaky, make sure you’re not overworking the dough. When rolling out the refrigerated pie crust, handle it gently and avoid pressing too firmly. Also, keeping the crust cold until it’s time to bake is key; warm dough can result in a tougher texture. Lastly, ensure your air fryer is fully preheated to give that crust the perfect golden-brown finish!