If you’re dreaming of a burst of tropical sunshine wrapped up in flaky, buttery crust, you have to try this Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe. These handheld delights marry the sweet juiciness of fresh pineapple with zesty lime and a touch of toasty coconut, all encased in golden, flaky pockets. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and crunchy textures that will have you savoring every crumb. They are ideal for a refreshing dessert, a charming snack, or a sweet surprise at any gathering. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your new favorite go-to treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each component plays a starring role in the Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe. From fresh pineapple providing juicy sweetness to lime zest adding a fragrant brightness, these essentials come together to create magic inside a tender crust.
- Fresh pineapple (1 cup, finely diced): This is the juicy base that brings tropical sweetness with a natural, fresh bite.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a zesty tang that lifts the pineapple’s flavor beautifully.
- Lime zest (1 teaspoon): Offers aromatic brightness for an extra punch of citrus.
- Shredded coconut (1/4 cup): Provides a chewy, nutty texture that complements the fruit perfectly.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the tartness and helps caramelize the filling slightly during baking.
- Cornstarch or flour (1 tablespoon): Thickens the filling to keep it beautifully set and not runny.
- Pie dough or puff pastry sheets: The flaky foundation that encases the delicious filling; choose your favorite ready-made dough for ease.
- Egg, beaten (1): Used as an egg wash, it helps achieve that gorgeous golden crust.
- Water or additional egg wash: Essential for sealing the edges tightly so your filling stays inside as you bake.
How to Make Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by finely dicing fresh pineapple—this ensures every bite has tender fruit pieces that meld perfectly with other flavors. Combine pineapple with lime juice, lime zest, shredded coconut, sugar, and cornstarch or flour in a bowl. Mixing these ingredients creates a thick, flavorful filling that won’t leak out when baking, giving you neat, neat hand pies with every batch.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking, then roll out your pie dough or puff pastry to approximately 1/8 inch thickness. This thin layer guarantees a delicate, flaky crust that crisps beautifully while still holding the luscious filling inside without becoming soggy.
Step 3: Cut and Fill
Grab a round or square cookie cutter to cut shapes from your rolled dough—it’s a fun step that lets you customize your hand pies. Place a generous spoonful of the pineapple lime coconut filling onto one half of each dough piece, leaving space around the edges to seal without the filling spilling out.
Step 4: Seal the Edges
Brush the edges of each dough piece lightly with water or egg wash—this acts like edible glue. Fold the dough over the filling, forming little pockets, then firmly press the edges with a fork. This not only seals the pies but creates a charming decorative border that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Brush and Bake
Before baking, brush the tops of your hand pies with the beaten egg wash. This simple step brings out a stunning golden brown color and a slight sheen once baked. Place the pies on a baking sheet and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until the crusts are perfectly crisp and invitingly golden.
How to Serve Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe with a sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut or a tiny wedge of lime on the side enhances presentation and adds an extra flavor pop. A light dusting of powdered sugar also brings a lovely, sweet finish without overpowering the tropical notes.
Side Dishes
These hand pies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to mellow the tartness and add creamy richness. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a crisp green salad or a citrusy fruit salsa that echoes the lime and pineapple flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the hand pies on a tropical leaf or serving them in colorful cupcake liners for a festive touch. You can even skewer mini hand pies on sticks for a playful party presentation that makes sharing so much fun. Bright napkins or tropical-themed platters boost the vibrant vibe they naturally bring to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four days. Keep them covered well to maintain crispness and prevent the filling from drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the hand pies before baking on a lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh-tasting pies.
Reheating
Reheat your hand pies gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to preserve their flaky texture and warm the filling just right. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh for this Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe?
While fresh pineapple offers the best flavor and texture, canned pineapple can work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well and perhaps reduce the added sugar to balance the sweetness.
Is puff pastry better than pie dough for these hand pies?
Both work wonderfully! Puff pastry gives an extra flaky, layered texture, while pie dough offers a sturdier, buttery crust. Choose based on your texture preference or what you have on hand.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking during baking?
Using cornstarch or flour to thicken the filling is key, as it helps hold the juices together. Also, ensuring the edges are well sealed with egg wash or water prevents leaks while baking.
Can I make these hand pies vegan?
Absolutely! Use a vegan pie dough or puff pastry and substitute the egg wash with plant-based milk or aquafaba for sealing and browning the crust.
What is the best way to enjoy Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe?
They’re incredible warm right out of the oven, but you can also enjoy them at room temperature as a snack or dessert. Pair with a cold drink for a delightful tropical treat anytime.
Final Thoughts
Making this Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe is a joyful journey into tropical flavors wrapped up in flaky, golden perfection. Whether for family gatherings, a casual snack, or a special dessert, these hand pies bring sunshine to every bite. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give them a try—you might just find your new favorite way to share the sweet tastes of summer all year round!
Print
Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Fusion/Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies are delightful handheld treats featuring a flaky pastry filled with a sweet, tangy, and tropical pineapple lime coconut mixture. Perfect for dessert or a snack, these pies boast a golden, crisp crust with a luscious, juicy filling that combines fresh pineapple, zesty lime, and shredded coconut for a tropical flavor burst in every bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or flour
Crust
- Pie dough or puff pastry sheets (enough to cut shapes, approx. 1 package)
For Assembly
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Water or additional egg wash (for sealing edges)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Finely dice fresh pineapple and combine it with lime juice, lime zest, shredded coconut, sugar, and cornstarch or flour in a bowl. Mix well to create a thick, flavorful filling that will stay together during baking without leaking.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie dough or puff pastry sheets to about 1/8 inch thickness. This thickness ensures a delicate and flaky crust that will hold the filling while baking evenly.
- Cut and Fill: Use a round or square cookie cutter to cut shapes from the rolled dough. Place a generous spoonful of the pineapple lime coconut filling onto one half of each dough shape, leaving space around the edges for sealing.
- Seal the Edges: Brush the edges of the dough with a little water or some egg wash. Fold the dough over the filling to form a pocket, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal and create a decorative edge that prevents the filling from escaping.
- Brush and Bake: Brush the top of each hand pie with beaten egg to give it a glossy, golden finish. Place the pies on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- Make sure to dice pineapple finely to ensure the filling binds well and bakes evenly.
- Using cornstarch or flour in the filling helps thicken any juices released during baking.
- You can substitute pie dough with puff pastry for a flakier texture.
- Brush edges with egg wash or water to ensure a secure seal to avoid leakage.
- Allow pies to cool slightly before serving to let the filling set.
