If you’re hunting for a dessert that’s equal parts sunny getaway and easy-to-bake crowd-pleaser, let me introduce you to Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats! These hand pies capture the essence of a beach vacation in a single flaky, golden pocket, brimming with bright pineapple, zesty lime, and chewy coconut. Whether you’re whipping these up for a picnic, party, or simply to spice up your weekend, prepare for smiles all around — they’re the little taste of sunshine you’ve been craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Filling:
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/3 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional Toppings:
- Coarse sugar for topping
- Powdered sugar and extra lime zest for garnish
How to Make Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats
Step 1: Prep Your Work Station and Preheat
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the perfect puff. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It helps to set up all your ingredients within arm’s reach, so you’re ready to fill and fold without breaking a sweat.
Step 2: Cook the Fruit Filling
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the drained crushed pineapple, lime juice, lime zest, shredded coconut, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Stir continuously—about 3 to 5 minutes—until everything thickens slightly and transforms into a glossy, juicy, jam-like filling. Then transfer it to a bowl and let it cool while you prepare your pastry.
Step 3: Shape the Pastry
Lightly flour your work surface and gently roll out the puff pastry sheet. Using a sharp knife or pizza wheel, cut it into 6 equal rectangles (or use a round cutter if you want circles—go wild!). Each piece should be large enough so that you get a good bite of both crispy pastry and luscious filling in every mouthful.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Hand Pies
Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of cooled filling right into the center of each pastry piece. Fold over the dough to create a little pocket, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal in all that tropical goodness. Not only does it look cute, but it also keeps the filling from escaping during baking.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Sugar Topping
Whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water, then brush this mixture generously over the tops of each pie. This is your ticket to a deeply golden, shiny crust. For extra crunch and sparkle, sprinkle some coarse sugar over the egg-washed tops—totally optional, but highly recommended for Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Pop your pies in the oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until they puff up and turn gorgeously golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes (that filling will be piping hot!). Just before serving, dust with powdered sugar and a pinch more lime zest if you like—it adds an irresistible finishing touch.
How to Serve Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and flavor, dust each hand pie with a little powdered sugar and a fresh sprinkle of lime zest. If you have a few mint leaves handy, tuck them alongside for a lovely green accent. A scoop of coconut ice cream on the side is never a bad idea.
Side Dishes
These hand pies shine alongside a fruit salad with more pineapple, mango, and berries, or as part of a dessert platter with other bite-sized tropical treats. Coffee or iced coconut milk are dreamy companions—I promise you’ll want something cool and creamy to sip!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try threading the hand pies onto wooden skewers for easy, fun grab-and-go snacking. For brunches, arrange on a cake stand, alternating with slices of fresh lime and pineapple rings. For a dessert bar, stack them in a basket lined with palm leaves to really drive home the Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats theme!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled hand pies in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to two days. Their crispness is at its best on the first day, but they still pack a flavorful punch for a couple more!
Freezing
These hand pies freeze beautifully assembled but unbaked. Arrange them on a lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then stack with parchment between each pie in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen—just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time. This way, Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats can be fresh any day.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, pop leftover hand pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes. The pastry will crisp up again and the filling warms through perfectly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the crust loses its delightful flake.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just mince or crush the fresh pineapple and be sure to drain off excess juices, so your filling doesn’t become watery. Fresh pineapple will give an even brighter flavor profile to your Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats.
Is there a vegan option for the egg wash?
Yes, you can brush the tops with coconut milk or a mixture of plant milk and maple syrup for a lovely golden finish. It’ll keep your Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats deliciously dairy free and beautiful.
What’s the best way to keep the filling from leaking out?
Don’t overfill, and be sure to fully crimp those pie edges with a fork—pressing down firmly. You can even pinch and fold for an extra tight seal. Some filling may bubble out, but that’s half the rustic charm of hand pies!
Can I make mini versions for a party?
Definitely! Use a smaller cutter to make bite-sized pies; just keep an eye on the baking time, as they’ll brown faster. “Mini” Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats are always a hit on dessert trays or as pass-around snacks.
Is it okay to add rum to the filling for an adult twist?
Of course! Stir in 1–2 teaspoons of dark rum to the filling off the heat for a grown-up, piña colada-inspired spin. Just a splash adds complexity without overwhelming the main tropical flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that delivers happiness with every bite, Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats deserve a place at your table. They’re festive, vibrant, and an absolute joy to make and eat. Grab a box of puff pastry and some fresh lime, and let these hand pies whisk you straight to the tropics—no passport required!
Print
Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies for Tropical Treats Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 6 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the tropical flavors of these Pineapple Lime Coconut Hand Pies, a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of pineapple with zesty lime and creamy coconut, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry crust. These hand pies are perfect for a summer treat or any time you crave a taste of the tropics.
Ingredients
Puff Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Filling:
- 1 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/3 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Optional Toppings:
- Coarse sugar for topping
- Powdered sugar and extra lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Filling: In a saucepan, combine crushed pineapple, lime juice, lime zest, shredded coconut, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook until thickened, then let cool.
- Assemble Pies: Roll out puff pastry, cut into rectangles, spoon filling onto each piece, fold over, and seal edges. Brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then garnish with powdered sugar and lime zest.
Notes
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days.
- For an extra treat, serve with coconut ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
