Step 1: Prepare the elderberry filling. In a medium saucepan, combine elderberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and optional cinnamon. Stir gently.
Step 2: Cook the filling. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to burst and the sauce thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely. This step is crucial for perfect elderberry recipes.
Step 3: Prepare the pastry. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each sheet of puff pastry or pie dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
Step 4: Cut pastry shapes. Using a 4-5 inch round or square cookie cutter, cut out 16 shapes from the pastry. You will need two shapes per hand pie.
Step 5: Assemble the hand pies. Place 8 of the pastry shapes on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled elderberry filling onto the center of each, leaving a border around the edges.
Step 6: Seal the pies. Lightly moisten the edges of the pastry with water. Place the remaining 8 pastry shapes on top, aligning the edges. Gently press around the filling to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges all around to create a tight seal and decorative finish for your elderberry recipes.
Step 7: Prepare for baking. Brush the tops of the hand pies with the egg wash. If desired, sprinkle with coarse sugar. Cut 2-3 small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
Step 8: Bake. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. Let the elderberry hand pies cool on a wire rack before serving.