Valentine's Day Heart Shaped Apricot Hand Pies: A Sweet and Romantic Treat

Valentine's Day is a special occasion for couples to celebrate their love and what better way to do that than with a sweet and romantic dessert? This heart-shaped apricot hand pie recipe is the perfect way to show your love with a homemade treat that is not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for all skill levels. Made with a vegan pie crust and sweet apricot jam, it's also a great option for those following a plant-based diet.

Ingredients:

• 1 old-fashioned homemade vegan pie crust

• 1/2 cup of apricot jam

• 1 egg yolk + 1/4 cup water, mixed

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Preheat the oven to 400F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out the vegan pie crust on a floured surface until it's thin.

3. Cut out the dough with a heart-shaped cookie cutter, making sure you have two hearts for each pie.

4. Place the hearts on the prepared baking sheet and add 1 tbsp of apricot jam to the center of each heart.

5. Top each heart with another heart and press the edges together with a fork to seal the pie.

6. Brush the egg mixture on top of each pie to give it a beautiful golden brown color.

7. Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.

8. Let the pies cool for a few minutes before serving.

Substitutions and Additions:

• Instead of apricot jam, you can use any other type of jam or preserve of your choice, such as raspberry or strawberry.

• For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some granulated sugar on top of the pies before baking.

• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top of the jam before sealing the pie.

• For a little extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the jam filling.

Other Delicious Dishes to Enjoy with Your Heart Shaped Apricot Hand Pies:

• Fresh mixed greens salad with a honey mustard dressing

• Grilled chicken breast with a side of roasted vegetables

• Beef stir-fry with mixed vegetables and rice

• Baked salmon with lemon and herbs

• Homemade spaghetti carbonara

• Roasted turkey with gravy and mashed potatoes

• Veggie burger with sweet potato fries

• Beef stew with crusty bread

• Grilled cheese and tomato soup

Don't forget to add a little something extra to make your heart-shaped apricot hand pies even more special. Try drizzling melted chocolate over the top, or sprinkle some powdered sugar to give them a lovely finish. You could also add a special touch by writing a message on top of the pies using melted white chocolate or frosting. These simple yet thoughtful touches will show your loved one just how much you care and make the day even more memorable.

These hand pies are also a great gift option for friends, family, and coworkers. Pack them in a cute box or basket, and add a personalized note to show your love and appreciation. Whether you're spending the day with your significant other, or spreading the love to those around you, these heart-shaped apricot hand pies are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face.

In summary, Valentine's Day is a day for celebrating love, and these heart-shaped apricot hand pies are the perfect way to do just that. So, why not surprise your loved one with a sweet and romantic dessert that will make their day extra special?

In conclusion, these heart-shaped apricot hand pies are the perfect Valentine's Day dessert for you and your loved one. They are sweet, easy to make, and a great way to show your love and appreciation. Serve them with a cup of hot tea or coffee and enjoy a romantic evening together. Happy Valentine's Day!