Apple Cherry Hand Pies

Dalmatia Sour Cherry Spread turns all American apple pie into an all American superstar! Making individual hand pies makes them so much easier to serve.

Prep time: 30 minutes

Cook time: about 30 to 35 minutes total

2 tablespoons butter

2 medium size Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1/4 cup water

1/2 cup Dalmatia Sour Cherry Spread

1 (15-oz.) box refrigerated pie dough

Milk or beaten egg and coarse sugar (optional)

Preheat oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Heat butter in a very large skillet over medium heat. Add apples and water and cook until simmering. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Stir in cherry spread and cook over low heat for 5 minutes more, stirring frequently. Let cool.

Unroll pie dough and shape into one solid piece, kneading lightly to remove any tears or seams in the dough. Divide into 7 equal pieces and shape each into a disc. Roll on a lightly floured board until about 5 inches in diameter.

Spoon equal amounts of apple mixture into the center of each. Bring up the sides and pinch the curved edges together to seal. Lay flat on a board and press  the edges again gently to make sure that they are sealed. Press with the with the tines of a fork and transfer to prepared baking sheet. Brush with milk or beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar, if desired. Make 2 very small slits in the top of each to vent.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the pastry is lightly browned and the filling is starting to bubble out slightly. Let cool completely, then store in an airtight container until ready to serve. May be prepared 1 day ahead. Makes 7 hand pies.