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Winter Comfort Mitten Pies Recipe

4.6 from 84 reviews

Winter Comfort Mitten Pies are charming seasonal treats featuring buttery pie dough filled with a sweet filling, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive holiday moments. These hand-shaped pies bake to a golden perfection, combining a flaky crust with a luscious, sweet center that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Dough

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 68 tablespoons ice water

Sweet Filling

  • 1 cup mixed fruit preserves or jam (such as apple, apricot, or berry)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Butter

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pie Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
  2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the fruit preserves, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well combined to create a flavorful sweet filling.
  3. Roll and Cut the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Using a mitten-shaped cookie cutter or a template and knife, cut out an even number of shapes (double the amount needed as each pie consists of two dough pieces).
  4. Fill the Pies: Place a small spoonful of the sweet filling onto the center of half the dough mittens, leaving edges clear for sealing. Brush the edges with a little water, then place the remaining dough shapes on top. Press the edges together firmly to seal the pies, crimping with a fork if desired.
  5. Brush with Butter: Generously brush the tops of the pies with melted butter to help them turn golden brown while baking.
  6. Bake the Pies: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the filled mittens on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden and crisp.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the comforting flaky crust paired with the sweet, spiced filling.

Notes

  • You can substitute the fruit preserves with fresh fruit cooked down with sugar and spices for a fresher filling.
  • For a decorative touch, brush the pies with egg wash instead of butter to give a glossy finish.
  • These pies can be made ahead and frozen before baking; bake directly from frozen adding 5-7 minutes to baking time.
  • Be careful not to overfill to prevent leaking during baking.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Keywords: winter pies, mitten pies, sweet pie filling, holiday dessert, hand pies