Lunch Box Pies
Delightful portable lunch box pies featuring sweet fruit filling encased in flaky crust, perfect for picnics, school lunches, or a quick treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Using a favorite pie crust recipe, cut rolled pie crust into large circles with a cookie cutter or rim of a coffee can.
- Place 1/4 cup of canned fruit pie filling in the center of each circle.
- Moisten the edges of the dough with water and fold the dough over to make a semi-circle.
- Press the edges together with a fork tines to seal.
- Bake in a hot oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, until golden.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider using chilled butter or shortening in your pie crust recipe. If you're short on time, store-bought pie crust works well too. Experiment with different fruit fillings like apple or cherry for variety. If using fresh fruit, add a tablespoon of sugar to sweeten it, as fresh fruit can be less sweet than canned options. You can also try adding spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These lunch box pies make a delightful snack or dessert, perfect for picnics or school lunches. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. They also pair beautifully with Sweet Potato Nut Balls for a balanced meal or as part of a larger spread featuring American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cooled pies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lunch Box Pies contains roughly 342 calories, with 4g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of fillings besides fruit?
Absolutely! These pies are versatile. You can fill them with chocolate pudding, custard, or even savory options like chicken or cheese. Just adjust the baking time if using fillings that require cooking, ensuring they're fully heated through before serving.
What if I don’t have a cookie cutter?
No worries! You can use the rim of a glass or a small bowl to cut out the dough circles. Just ensure the edges are even for proper sealing. Alternatively, you can also shape them freehand for a rustic look.
Can I freeze these pies for later?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pies! Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).