Red, White, and Blue Ice Cream Hand Pies

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These Patriotic Hand Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches are the ultimate summer dessert, combining flaky, golden brown pie crusts with rich, creamy ice cream. The colorful red, white, and blue ice cream filling makes them perfect for festive occasions like the 4th of July, where red, white, and blue are the stars of the show.

Not only are these hand pies delicious, but they’re also a fun treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a family BBQ or a summer get-together, these hand pies will surely be the highlight of the day. The flaky crust paired with ice cream makes for a satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Full Recipe:

1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if preferred)
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1/4 cup strawberry ice cream
1/4 cup blueberry ice cream
1 egg (for egg wash)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon milk

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the pie crusts and use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles. You can make the size as small or large as you prefer.
Lay out half of the pie crust circles on the baking sheet.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of vanilla ice cream and place it in the center of each pie circle. Add a small spoonful of strawberry ice cream and blueberry ice cream on top to create a “patriotic” effect.
Cover with the remaining pie circles and seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Use a small knife to make a couple of tiny slits on top for steam to escape.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk together, then brush the egg wash over each hand pie.
Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the top of each pie.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Let the pies cool slightly before serving. If desired, serve with extra scoops of ice cream on the side.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per pie | Servings: 6-8 servings

History and Origin

Hand pies, also known as empanadas, turnovers, or pasties in various cultures, have been a staple in many culinary traditions for centuries. The concept of encasing sweet or savory fillings in a pastry shell dates back to ancient times, with variations found in virtually every corner of the world. In the United States, hand pies are particularly popular during the summer, often filled with fruit such as apples, peaches, or berries.

However, the twist in this recipe — turning the classic hand pie into an ice cream sandwich — is a more modern creation, born from the American love of combining classic desserts with ice cream. The inclusion of patriotic colors makes this treat especially fitting for national holidays like the 4th of July, where red, white, and blue are the stars of the show.

The history of ice cream sandwiches dates back to the early 20th century, with different stories of their invention. Some believe the treat originated from the pushcarts of New York in the 1900s, where vendors would scoop ice cream between two cookies or wafers for a fun, portable treat. Fast forward to today, and the ice cream sandwich has become a classic American dessert.

Variations and Adaptations

While this recipe focuses on a patriotic theme with red, white, and blue ice cream fillings, the concept can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are a few fun variations and adaptations you can try:

Flavor Swap: While this recipe uses vanilla, strawberry, and blueberry ice cream to create the red, white, and blue effect, you can get creative by using other flavors. Consider using mint chocolate chip, pistachio, or even coffee ice cream for a more sophisticated twist.
Pie Crust Variety: Instead of traditional pie crust, you could opt for cookie dough, puff pastry, or even biscuit dough for a different texture. A buttery, flaky crust gives way to a satisfying crunch, but if you want a lighter, more delicate base, puff pastry could do the trick.
Fruit Fillings: For a healthier twist or a fresh fruity variation, consider swapping out the ice cream for whipped cream and a mix of fresh berries. You could also try a cream cheese filling with fruit jams for a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Add-ins and Toppings: Experiment with adding sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce on top for added flavor and decoration. You could even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust before baking for a warming, spiced touch.
Mini Versions: If you’re hosting a large event or want a fun party snack, consider making mini versions of the hand pies. This way, guests can enjoy them as bite-sized treats, and you’ll be able to create a larger variety of flavors in smaller portions.

Nutritional Information

While these Patriotic Hand Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches are undeniably indulgent, they’re certainly not a daily treat for the health-conscious. Still, let’s take a closer look at the nutritional information to understand what you’re getting in one of these festive delights.

Each hand pie contains approximately 350 kcal per serving, which is a reasonable amount for a dessert treat. The exact calorie count may vary depending on the type of ice cream you use (full-fat vs. low-fat, for example) and any additional toppings or fillings you add.

Here’s a basic breakdown of the macronutrients:

Carbohydrates: These hand pies contain a good amount of carbs, mainly from the pie crust and ice cream. One serving typically has around 40-45g of carbs, most of which are simple sugars from the ice cream.
Fat: The fat content is also notable, with each pie containing around 18-20g of fat. Much of this comes from the buttery pie crust and the cream in the ice cream. Opting for a lower-fat ice cream could help reduce the fat content.
Protein: As a dessert, protein is on the lower end, averaging 2-4g of protein per serving, depending on the ice cream variety and crust type.
Fiber: There’s very little fiber in this dessert, but you could increase the fiber content by using a whole grain crust or adding a fruit filling.

Micronutrients such as calcium and iron are present in small amounts, mainly from the dairy in the ice cream and the pie crust.

If you’re watching your calorie intake or trying to stay on the healthier side, you can opt for low-fat or dairy-free ice cream alternatives, and even experiment with almond flour or whole wheat flour for the crust to boost the fiber content.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Patriotic Hand Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches are perfect on their own, but if you want to elevate the dessert, here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve with Extra Ice Cream: These hand pies are delicious when served with an extra scoop of your favorite ice cream on the side. Vanilla, chocolate, or even a fruit sorbet could complement the flavors of the pie.
Berry Compote: To add a fresh and tangy contrast, consider serving the pies with a homemade berry compote or fresh berries on the side. The sweetness of the fruit balances the richness of the ice cream and pie.
Pair with a Cold Beverage: For a truly refreshing experience, pair these hand pies with a cold beverage. Lemonade, iced tea, or even a sparkling water with a splash of lime would pair nicely with the creamy ice cream.
Garnish with Mint: Adding a fresh sprig of mint to the plate can elevate the visual appeal and add a burst of fresh flavor that contrasts with the richness of the ice cream.
Create a Dessert Platter: If you’re hosting a party or a family BBQ, serve these hand pies as part of a larger dessert platter, accompanied by brownies, cookies, or fruit tarts for variety.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Don’t Overfill: While it might be tempting to stuff these pies with lots of ice cream, be careful not to overfill them. A small scoop of each ice cream flavor will give you the perfect balance of filling without overflowing when baking.
Seal the Edges Well: Make sure to press down the edges of the hand pies firmly with a fork to create a tight seal. This will prevent the ice cream from leaking out during the baking process.
Chill Before Baking: Once you’ve assembled the pies, consider chilling them for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps firm up the ice cream and prevents it from melting too quickly during baking.
Use High-Quality Ice Cream: The flavor of the ice cream is key to making these pies delicious. Opt for premium ice cream for the best taste and texture.
Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the pies with an egg wash before baking helps them achieve a golden, glossy finish that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Potential Health Benefits

Though these Patriotic Hand Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a dessert indulgence, there are a few potential health benefits that come with the ingredients:

Calcium: If you use dairy-based ice cream, you’ll get a good dose of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Fruit Benefits: The ice cream fillings can be made with real fruit, like strawberries and blueberries, which provide antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Blueberries, for example, are rich in vitamin C and may support heart health and cognitive function.
Portion Control: Since these hand pies are individually portioned, they can help with portion control, especially when you’re looking for a treat without going overboard on sweets.

Conclusion

Whether you’re celebrating the 4th of July or simply indulging in a fun summer dessert, Patriotic Hand Pie Ice Cream Sandwiches are a creative and delicious treat. With their festive colors and delightful combination of crispy pie crust and creamy ice cream, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make these fun hand pies the centerpiece of your next summer celebration. You won’t regret it!