• Home
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
    • Collaborate
  • Blog
  • Parties
    • Children’s Parties Ideas
    • Holiday Parties
    • Adult Party Ideas
  • Holiday Ideas
    • Christmas
    • Easter
    • Fourth of July
    • Spring
    • Thanksgiving
    • Valentine’s Day
  • Seasons
    • Winter
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Autumn
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Beverages
    • Desserts
    • Main Dishes
    • Side Dishes
    • Soups
  • Project Gallery
    • Crafts
    • Decorating
    • DIY
    • Good Ideas
    • Tutorials
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Bloglovin
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

Where Ideas for your Home Meet Inspiration for your Heart

  • Book
  • Speaking
  • Meet Vanessa
    • Featured

June 29, 2013

Easy 4th of July Dessert ~ Patriotic Hand Pies

4th_of_July_hand_pies www.atthepicketfence.com

I love to embarrass my children.

I think it’s just a parent’s prerogative, don’t you? After the public tempter tantrums, being vomited on, diaper explosions while on an airplane, begging for them to go #2 in the potty, having them tell your neighbors that you are adding lattice to the deck so that you can get some privacy from said neighbors and all of the other mortifying things they have said/done in front of other people, it’s about time that we get to mortify them. Can I get an amen?

One of my favorite ways to do this is to sing very loudly…sometimes opera style…at home…in the car…occasionally in a store. Or dance…like a lunatic. And this is one of my MOST favorite times of the year to do this because I always feel particularly patriotic. So when you least expect it I will belt out “God Bless America” or “They’re Coming to America” or “The Star Spangled Banner” or my personal favorite, James Brown’s “Living in America”.

Oh, they just LOVE it! 😉

making hand pies

But, I try to make it up to them by keeping the supply of summertime treats flowing and never is that more true than on the 4th of July.

This year I’m making hand pies. Because you have to have one hand free to wave around a sparkler, right?

Now, stay with me here ’cause it’s gonna get tricky while I show you how to make these.

First, you go to the grocery store and buy refrigerated pie crusts and a can of your pie filing of choice. Got that part?

Then you roll out your pie crust and cut out circles using the only thing you can think of which will probably end up being a salad plate. Is it getting too complicated yet? 😉

apple pie filling for hand pies

Then you put a glob of the pie filling the middle of your salad plate cut out pie crust. Not too much glob though, mind you? You don’t want that glob leaking out of your hand pie.

apple hand pies

Fold the crust in half and crimp the edges. Don’t forget to brush a nice egg wash (one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water) over the top for that perfect golden color. Bake the pies at 375 for 12-15 minutes.

Then, just for kicks, you could cut star shapes out of the extra pie crust to decorate the top of your hand pies.

star pie crust cut outs

I thought it would be fun to make an American flag too. I’ll let you be the judge as to how successful that little moment of creative “genius” was.

hand pie with flag cut out www.atthepicketfence.com

We told the kids that if they ate the American flag they would have to sing “The Star Spangled Banner”.

Of course, they didn’t want to do it.

So, I had to do it instead.

Loudly…with conviction…and a little fake vibrato. I might have also been holding my hand over my heart while I sang. And closing my eyes…and swaying back and forth a bit.

They just LOVE it when I do that! 😉

patriotic hand pies from atthepicketfence.com

The 4th of July is truly one of my most favorite days of the year. Not just because we get to spend it with amazing friends, eat awesome food and sit in lawn chairs watching things ‘blow up’ in the street.

Those things are great but that’s not really why it is one of my most favorite days.

I love this day because of how it makes me feel inside. It’s such a unifying day. American flags are waving from homes all up and down our street. We hang out on our front porches or driveways or sidewalks and get to know our neighbors a bit better. This day makes me stop and think about all of the sacrifices which were made by the men and women who founded this country.

And now…oh boy…I feel another song coming on…wait…I need to go grab my kids!

“And, I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free. And I won’t forget the men who died who gave that right to me. And I gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today. Cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land. God bless the USA!”

I’m not embarrassing you, am I? 😉

1553F4F30A9801A6AFB3E9C624118E7B

 

30 Comments Filed Under: Desserts, Fourth of July, Good Ideas, Holidays, Recipes Tagged With: 4th of July, 4th of July recipes, desserts, pie, recipes, summer recipes

Subscribe

Get the latest goodness straight to your inbox!

Previous Post: « Kindle Fire Giveaway & Fun in the Sun Linky Party!
Next Post: Recycled Patriotic Party Ideas for the 4th of July »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Michele/Finch Rest says

    June 29, 2013 at 5:36 AM

    Those pies look awesome – and especially wonderful photography/styling.

    I love trouble-free foods, and this is a great idea. Thank you!

    And no, you didn’t embarrass yourself. I love your patriotism! : – )

    Have a great weekend.

    Reply
  2. Marty Walden says

    June 29, 2013 at 6:25 AM

    Great job, Vanessa! You had explosive airplane diapers, too? My hubby actually got that one!

    Reply
  3. Janet Drury says

    June 29, 2013 at 6:29 AM

    I read your post out loud to my daughter. We laughed and laughed. It was so heartwarming. I pinned it to my Fourth of July board so that I can read it every year on the holiday. Keep on singing out loud. By the way, in the Yankee Doodle song, when he stuck a feather in his hat and they called him macaroni–a macaroni in those days was a dapper dresser. I always tell first graders this. They love knowing the secret.

    Reply
  4. Judy Clark says

    June 29, 2013 at 8:44 AM

    I csn hear you singing from here!

    Happy Fourth of July!

    Judy

    Reply
  5. Angela says

    June 29, 2013 at 9:30 AM

    I was singing right along with ya!!! Have a fabulous fourth and enjoy your pies! They look yummy and easy (a definite plus in my book)!! I’m gonna try em! Thanks, Vanessa!!~~Angela

    Reply
  6. Leslie says

    June 29, 2013 at 11:02 AM

    Oh I love these! Your design infringe is super cute. Yum!

    Reply
  7. Shannon @Fox Hollow Cottage says

    June 29, 2013 at 11:22 AM

    Loved the smiles and giggles I got from this post. Oh and the recipe too 😉 Thanks for a great duo Vanessa!!

    Reply
  8. Debbie says

    June 29, 2013 at 12:01 PM

    Oh honey… I’ll bet I can out-embarrass you with one arm tied behind my back and a sore throat. I’m what you call a professional child embarrasser. I’ve been at it for almost a quarter of a century.

    You know you have reached the level of master when knowing the correct words to said songs becomes totally optional.

    On a serious note: Loving the pie idea. The anthem is just gravy on the taters.

    Reply
  9. Deborah Wilkins says

    June 29, 2013 at 1:02 PM

    Thanks for this great post! We must be twins, separated at birth! I do the same things with my twin boys – from their birth to the ripe old age of 26! They laugh along with me as I sing and dance. I, too, love the Fourth of July – not only because I am a patriotic American – but because it is my birthday!

    Enjoy the fireworks!

    Reply
  10. Leena Lanteigne says

    June 29, 2013 at 1:10 PM

    Amen! It is our constitutional right to embarrass out children and grandchildren where ever and whenever possible! This includes use of speech, song, dance and the dreaded childhood photos! LOL! Of course, if you are going to be running around singing and dancing, you will be required to yourself and post said performances on your blog like Jen does over at Four Marrs and One Venus! Wait, y’all could get together and put on a show! I really like this recipe and think I’ll make some for our 4th. My little grandson loves apple pies, like the ones you get at McD’s that you can hold in your hand. Perfect. He’ll even enjoy cutting out the stars to put on top! Thanks for sharing and have a wonderful holiday! Hugs, Leena

    Reply
  11. Jackie Adams says

    June 29, 2013 at 2:19 PM

    Mmmm…I want one! They look yummy. Have a blessed Fourth ladies!!!

    Reply
  12. Leslie Harris aka Gwen Moss says

    June 29, 2013 at 2:49 PM

    Vanessa, what a great idea to use the store bought crust. And I agree with you about the sentiments of this day. It’s does make me feel all warm and proud inside. Thanks for the post, great styling.

    Reply
  13. Document says

    June 29, 2013 at 5:16 PM

    Usually I would not learn post on blogs and forums, however I wish to say that that write-up pretty urged me you need to do therefore! The writing style continues to be amazed myself. Thanks a lot, really good document.

    Reply
  14. Sue {munchkin munchies} says

    June 29, 2013 at 6:17 PM

    Oh, you made me laugh, and I love your hand pies!

    Reply
  15. Marsha says

    June 29, 2013 at 8:52 PM

    Amen! Yes. I love to have fun and yes, it does embarrass my daughter sometimes. How can you embarrass someone when we are to only two people in the house??? That makes no sense. But she says I embarrass her. You and my husband are cut from the same piece of cloth…..singing, dancing… goofy voices….. The pies look de-lish and yes, are perfect when you’re holding a sparkler in the other hand. Happy Fourth!

    Reply
  16. Angelina-JoJo and Eloise says

    June 29, 2013 at 9:55 PM

    OKAY!!! We totally need an IG video of this… Because I seriously just can’t picture you doing this.. You seem so reserved and poised. LOL!!! Now onto these hand pies, these are what you call, “Pretty Yummy” wish I could have a bite 🙂
    xoxo

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      June 29, 2013 at 10:01 PM

      Reserved and poised??? LOL!!! I just put up a good front my friend! 😉

      Reply
  17. Yvonne @ StoneGable says

    June 30, 2013 at 5:09 PM

    Oh WOW! These are so so adorable! I think I’ll make these for my family who are coming home for the 4th and weekend! They will love them!!!!
    I can always come to the Picket Fence and be inspired!

    Reply
  18. Website says

    July 1, 2013 at 12:19 AM

    Thank you for various other wonderful article. The site otherwise may any person have that type of details in their normal excellent approach to crafting? I have a demonstration following full week, for within the search for such information.

    Reply
  19. Liz @ Quirky Vistas says

    July 1, 2013 at 5:46 AM

    Bravo! on the pies and on the singing! Love your recollections about the reason your kids need paybacks. Ha! You crack me up.
    Liz

    Reply
  20. Valeria De Seemann says

    July 4, 2013 at 6:39 AM

    Hi, I just found this blog from Tip Junkie, and I suscribed immediately (that much I liked it!)

    In Chile, we call “empanada” those hand pies, and yours look delicious!!!

    Have a great 4th of July, girls 🙂

    Reply
  21. Janice says

    July 2, 2014 at 1:47 PM

    Oh my gosh, you are hysterical! Thanks for the laugh, oh and the pie recipe! Seems simple enough! Lol!

    Reply
  22. martina says

    May 22, 2015 at 5:32 AM

    Well said my friend…you get a very loud Amen from me 🙂
    Those pies look yummy!

    Reply
    • Cindy says

      May 22, 2015 at 9:01 AM

      Hilarious and sooo true! Great post Really enjoyed this one! God bless us everyone!

      Reply
  23. Botanic Bleu says

    May 22, 2015 at 1:41 PM

    No, you did not embarrass me… hard to embarrass a retired school teacher. Love the pies and their decorations. I’m inspired to make some of my own AND to sing while I’m doing it. Happy patriotic holidays all summer…. Memorial Day, 4th of July, Bastille Day (for French lovers), and Labor Day.

    Judith

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Pinterest Filled 4th of July | Sweet Tea, Sunshine & Serendipity says:
    July 12, 2013 at 10:53 AM

    […] I saw these hand pies and decided since one of Jesse’s favorite guilty pleasures is those Little Debbie […]

    Reply
  2. 4th of July Dessert Ideas - Tasty Food Snacks says:
    May 8, 2014 at 2:37 AM

    […] is the perfect way to celebrate America’s Independence! Try these cute 4th of July Desserts, CLICK HERE for the […]

    Reply
  3. 7 4th of July Dessert Recipes - TodaysMama says:
    June 16, 2014 at 2:00 AM

    […] Patriotic Hand Pies from At The Picket Fence […]

    Reply
  4. Patriotic and Delicious 4th of July Desserts! - Baby Gizmo Blog says:
    June 20, 2014 at 12:23 AM

    […] Patriotic Hand Pies From A Picket Fence.  How cute are these pocket pies?! Fill them with cherries and blueberries to keep the 4th of July colors going. […]

    Reply
  5. Patriotic and Delicious 4th of July Desserts! - Baby Gizmo says:
    August 30, 2014 at 3:41 PM

    […] Patriotic Hand Pies From A Picket Fence.  How cute are these pocket pies?! Fill them with cherries and blueberries to keep the 4th of July colors going. […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Search This Blog

Get the book!

Invite Vanessa to speak at your event!

Stay updated!

  • A New Look for the Family Room

    A New Look for the Family Room
  • Honey Tea Cake Loaf with Lemon Glaze

    Honey Tea Cake Loaf with Lemon Glaze
  • The Slow Exit

    The Slow Exit
  • Honed Quartzite Kitchen Counters Reveal

    Honed Quartzite Kitchen Counters Reveal

Sign Up and Never Miss A Post!

Must Reads

Latest Recipes

Honey Tea Cake Loaf with Lemon Glaze

Apple Bread Pudding

Grandma’s Banana Bread

view more recent recipes

Recent Posts

  • Winter Decorating Ideas January 27, 2023
  • Nostalgic Christmas Home Tour December 10, 2022
  • Vintage Inspired Hot Cocoa Bar November 21, 2022
  • Autumn Home Decor Tour October 7, 2022
  • Built In Shelving Makeover in Family Room August 31, 2022

Footer

Stay Connected!

Instagram

I just went to make my mid-morning protein shake a I just went to make my mid-morning protein shake and grabbed a banana out of the freezer and was about to put it into my shake before I realized it was a frozen egg roll. Sooooo that's how my day is going so far! 🤪How about you?

It's honestly fairly representative of my state of mind these days as I can't seem to make the date on the calendar match the date in my spirit because it feels like it should be January 45th. Every year this month drags on and every year it seems to surprise me for some reason. In addition, my heart just feels heavy as I witness a lot of darkness and sadness around me. So, I'm choosing to control what I can control by making my house feel as cozy as possible, relishing the sunshine whenever it dares to peek through the clouds, gathering inspiration for warmer weather projects and, most importantly, resting in the comfort of the sovereignty of my Father.

“God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’ So that everyone he has made may know his work..." Job 37:5-7
What if you could do something at the beginning of What if you could do something at the beginning of your day that would be a gift to yourself later on? That’s what we’re talking about on this week’s Tip Tuesday! #tiptuesday
The sun decided to make another appearance today! The sun decided to make another appearance today! It’s been such a lovely Sunday. Chocolate croissants for breakfast followed by church then naps/football/reading/etc and soon we’ll be heading out to dinner with friends. These are my favorite kind of weekends. Hope yours has been lovely too! 🌿
Yesterday was stormy and cold but today the sunshi Yesterday was stormy and cold but today the sunshine is breaking through the fog and my house just seems happier. We definitely needed to see that light streaming in through the windows and it’s a gift I don’t take for granted.

And yes, there are still twinkle lights on my mantle because those help when the sunshine goes away again. ✨
Happy weekend! The rainy and gloomy weather here i Happy weekend! The rainy and gloomy weather here in the Willamette Valley has me feeling less frustrated about my migraine forcing me to just snuggle up indoors and these flowers in my kitchen are lifting my spirits. What are you up to on this holiday weekend?
It’s time for TIP TUESDAY! This week, I’m offe It’s time for TIP TUESDAY! This week, I’m offering a gentle reminder from my own parenting experience after feeling my heart pricked with conviction about what was waiting for my daughter every day after school. I hope it will encourage you! 🌿#tiptuesday
The day after Christmas I found myself laundering The day after Christmas I found myself laundering and folding all of the linens we used the previous night as we hosted my husband's side of the family for dinner and other festivities. As I laid out each cloth napkin and folded them one by one, I couldn't help but be struck by what a simple, yet meaningful, task it was. It's such an honor and privilege to be the hostess and, at this stage of my life, I realize that this has almost one hundred percent become my role now. Our parents are in their 70's and have either downsized significantly or simply don't have the energy to take on hosting duties for a large group. I could resent this. I could feel overwhelmed by it. But, instead, I'm choosing to embrace it knowing that, someday, I too will pass the hosting torch and I hope that I will be welcomed with love and attentiveness. So, I fold the linen napkins, taking pleasure in the way all of the creases line up and how neat and tidy they look in the drawer of my dining room buffet. These seemingly simple chores are part of the lifeblood of homemaking and my attitude towards them can either be one of gratefulness or grumbly-ness (yes, I'm making up words now). 

And I’m choosing gratefulness. 

“This job has been given to me to do. Therefore, it is a gift. Therefore, it is a privilege. Therefore, it is an offering I may make to God. Therefore, it is to be done gladly, if it is done for Him. Here, not somewhere else, I may learn God’s way. In this job, not in some other, God looks for faithfulness.” (Elisabeth Elliot⁣)
Welcome to Tip Tuesday! I’m so excited to be kic Welcome to Tip Tuesday! I’m so excited to be kicking off the year with a brand new series! Each weekly installment will feature a tip for everything from your home to faith to parenting to family life and so much more. My goal for 2023 is to have far more personal interaction with this community while continuing on with the mission of weaving together all things heart and home. I hope you enjoy this first tip and I’d love to hear from you about whether or not you decorate for winter! 
#tiptuesday #organizing #winterdecorating
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. H “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” 

Here’s to beginnings. Happy new year friends! May you experience the majesty and sovereignty of the Lord in 2023 like never before! ✨
Oh how I love this week each year! It’s my favor Oh how I love this week each year! It’s my favorite for sure. Everything is still festive and decorated but there’s none of the stress of the cooking and wrapping and making preparations. It’s the week where we get to take everything slowly and simply enjoy being together while the house still has twinkling lights and we can just be cozy.

What about you? How will you be spending this week? ✨
Load More... Follow
Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 · Divine theme by Restored 316

Copyright © 2023 At The Picket Fence