Pumpkin Hand Pies

Introduction for the recipe

As the leaves start to turn and the scent of cinnamon fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a cozy evening at home with a warm treat in hand. Pumpkin hand pies are the quintessential fall dessert, perfectly suited for chilly nights, festive gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something comforting. These delightful pastries were inspired by the traditional pumpkin pie, but with a fun, portable twist that makes enjoying them a cinch.

What makes these pumpkin hand pies truly special is not just their flaky crust and rich pumpkin filling, but the sheer joy they bring to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday gathering or savoring one with a cup of cider by the fireplace, these hand pies are sure to create memorable moments with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pumpkin hand pies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a joy to make. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, these hand pies can be whipped up in no time.
• Versatile Flavors: You can customize the filling to suit your taste, from classic pumpkin to spiced variations.
• Perfect for Sharing: Their portable nature makes them ideal for sharing at picnics or potlucks.
• Dietary Friendly Options: With a few swaps, you can make these hand pies vegan or gluten-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delectable pumpkin hand pies, gather the following ingredients:

• For the crust:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your hand pies, giving them a flaky texture.
  • 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced: Adds richness and contributes to the flaky texture.
  • 6-8 tbsp ice water: Helps bring the dough together without warming it up.
• For the filling:
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star of the show, providing sweetness and a creamy texture.
  • ½ cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pumpkin.
  • 1 tsp cinnamon: Offers warmth and spice to the filling.
  • ½ tsp nutmeg: Provides an earthy, aromatic note that’s quintessentially fall.
  • 1 egg: Acts as a binder and gives the filling a rich texture.

Optional additions you might consider include:

• Pinch of ginger: For a little extra warmth.
• Chocolate chips: For a delightful surprise in every bite.

Garnishes can bring your pumpkin hand pies to the next level:

• Dusting of powdered sugar: Adds a sweet touch and visual appeal.
• Whipped cream: Serve on the side for those who want a creamy accent.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on making your pumpkin hand pies with these simple steps:

1. Make the dough:
   

   In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Prepare the filling:
   

   In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, spices, and egg. Mix until smooth and well combined, then set aside.

3. Roll out the dough:
   

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough until it’s about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter.

4. Assemble the hand pies:
   

   Place a tablespoon of the pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a semicircle, sealing the edges with a fork.

5. Brush and bake:
   

   Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tsp water) to give them a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

6. Cool and serve:
   

   Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Serving and Storage Tips

These pumpkin hand pies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while still warm. However, they can also be stored for later enjoyment:

• Serving: Serve them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat with coffee or tea.
• Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for up to a month.
• Reheating: To preserve their flaky texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Helpful Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make your pumpkin hand pies perfect:

• Ensure your butter is cold to achieve a flaky crust.
• Don’t overwork the dough; mix just until combined to keep it tender.
• For a twist on flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the filling.
• Experiment with different spice combinations to make these hand pies your own!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?

Homemade pumpkin puree works beautifully, but canned pumpkin puree is completely fine too. Just ensure it’s 100% pumpkin with no added spices or sugars.

Can I make these hand pies vegan?

Yes! To make them vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of the egg in the filling.

How can I freeze the pumpkin hand pies?

After baking, allow the hand pies to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored for up to a month.

Conclusion

Pumpkin hand pies are more than just a delicious treat; they embody the spirit of the fall season and inspire togetherness. With their flaky crust, rich pumpkin filling, and customizable options, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. So why not gather your loved ones, put on your favorite autumn playlist, and create these delightful pastries together? I would love to hear your experiences and any adaptations you make in the comments below. Try this recipe and create lasting memories, one hand pie at a time!

Irresistible Pumpkin Hand Pies Easy Recipe for Fall Delight

Print Recipe

Savor fall with irresistible pumpkin hand pies Discover this easy recipe for a delightful treat perfect for autumn gatherings 152 chars

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 hand pies 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced

6–8 tbsp ice water

1 cup pumpkin puree

½ cup brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

1 egg

Pinch of ginger (optional)

Chocolate chips (optional)

Powdered sugar for garnish (optional)

Whipped cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, spices, and egg. Mix until smooth and well combined, then set aside.

Roll out the dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough until it’s about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles about 4 inches in diameter.

Assemble the hand pies: Place a tablespoon of the pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a semicircle, sealing the edges with a fork.

Brush and bake: Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tsp water) to give them a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and serve: Allow to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

• Author: souzanfood
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 calories
• Sugar: 10 grams
• Fat: 12 grams
• Saturated Fat: 12 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Protein: 3 grams

Keywords: pumpkin hand pies, fall dessert, gluten-free option, vegan option