Who doesn’t love a classic s’more?
The gooey marshmallow, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers have been a favorite for generations.
But what if you could enjoy all that deliciousness with a twist—without the need for a campfire?
Enter the Air Fryer S’mores Hand Pies, a fun and easy way to enjoy the flavors of s’mores any time, right in your kitchen.
In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make these delicious hand pies, from the simple ingredients to the
foolproof steps. And, yes, I’ll share some secret tips to make your Air Fryer Desserts absolutely irresistible!
Why Choose Air Fryer for Desserts?
You might be wondering, why should you use an air fryer for desserts? Well, the air fryer is a game-changer. It offers a quick and easy way to achieve crispy, golden-brown desserts without needing to preheat an oven. The rapid circulation of hot air gives these s’mores hand pies a perfectly crispy exterior, while keeping the inside warm and gooey—just like a s’more should be!
Ingredients for Air Fryer S’mores Hand Pies
Before you dive into making these delicious hand pies, gather your ingredients:
- Pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate chips or chocolate squares
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Egg (for brushing)
- Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these hand pies is simple, and I’ll break it down for you step by step:
- Roll out the pie crust and cut it into equal-sized circles.
- On one half of each circle, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs, chocolate, and marshmallows.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
- Brush the top with egg wash.
- Place the hand pies in the air fryer and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
The Perfect Dough for Hand Pies
Using the right dough is crucial for achieving that crisp outer shell and soft, gooey center. Pre-made pie dough is convenient, but you can make your own if you prefer. The key is to roll it thin enough so the hand pies crisp up quickly in the air fryer, but thick enough to hold the filling without tearing.
Filling Options for Hand Pies
While the classic s’mores filling is a fan favorite, feel free to get creative with your fillings. You can add peanut butter, Nutella, or even fruit jam for a fruity twist on the traditional recipe. The sky’s the limit when it comes to customizing your air fryer desserts.
How to Assemble the Hand Pies
Assembling your hand pies is a breeze. After cutting your dough and preparing the filling, remember to seal the edges well with a fork. This not only prevents the filling from leaking out but also gives the pies that signature look with crimped edges.
Tips for Cooking S’mores Hand Pies in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures that your pies cook evenly and come out golden and crispy.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff your pies, as they could burst during cooking.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your air fryer basket with parchment paper will prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overfilling: As tempting as it may be, don’t overstuff your pies. Too much filling can cause them to split open during cooking.
- Not Sealing Properly: Make sure the edges are tightly sealed to prevent the marshmallow and chocolate from oozing out.
How to Serve Your Hand Pies
These s’mores hand pies are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the air fryer. You can serve them with a side of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with chocolate sauce for extra indulgence. They’re perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a cozy dessert after dinner.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F to restore their crispiness.
Healthier Variations of S’mores Hand Pies
Looking for a slightly healthier version? You can swap the pie dough for whole wheat dough, use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate, and reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. You’ll still get that delicious s’mores flavor but with a little less guilt.
