Pumpkin Hand Pies are like little pockets of autumn wrapped in flaky goodness, bursting with sweet pumpkin filling and cozy spices that make your taste buds dance. Fluffy Pan Bread for dipping Imagine biting into a warm pie, the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg inviting you to take another bite, while the buttery crust crumbles just right—heavenly!
Every fall, I whip up a batch of these delightful hand pies to share with family and friends during our pumpkin-themed gatherings. The laughter, the joy, and those eager faces waiting for their slice of pie make it a cherished tradition. These treats are perfect for everything from Thanksgiving tables to cozy movie nights on the couch.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Pumpkin Hand Pies are simple to make and bursting with flavor
- Their golden crust makes them visually stunning and perfect for any occasion
- You can customize the filling with your favorite spices or even chocolate chips
- Plus, they’re portable—perfect for sharing or enjoying on-the-go!
You know how people say food brings folks together? Well, my friends practically camp out in my kitchen when they know I’m making these pies.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: Cheesy Ranch Potatoes side dish.
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade puree; just ensure it’s pure pumpkin without added sugar or spices.
Pie Crust: Store-bought crust saves time, but homemade adds a personal touch that elevates your hand pies.
Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon enhances the flavor profile; it’s like giving your pies a warm hug.
Nutmeg: A dash of nutmeg adds depth; just remember, less is more!
Brown Sugar: This offers rich sweetness and helps create that caramelized flavor we all love.
Egg Wash: One egg mixed with water gives the pies a beautiful golden finish when baked.
Optional Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for texture; it’s your pie, so get creative!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Thai Chicken Curry Soup pairing. For more inspiration, check out this curry chicken chowder recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Dough: Begin by rolling out your pie crust on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass—aim for about 4 inches in diameter.
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. Taste it; you might want to sneak some more sugar in there!
Assemble the Pies: Place a generous spoonful of filling in the center of each circle. Moisten the edges with water and fold them over to create half-moons. Press down firmly to seal them.
Create Egg Wash and Decorate: Beat one egg with water in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over each pie and use a fork to poke holes for steam vents—no one likes an exploded pie!
Bake Them Up!: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange your pies on the sheet and bake for about 25 minutes until they’re golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy!: Let them cool slightly before serving. The smell will be irresistible; try not to burn your tongue in excitement as you take that first bite!
You Must Know
- These delightful pumpkin hand pies are not just delicious; they bring a cozy autumn vibe to your kitchen
- The flaky crust complements the spiced pumpkin filling, creating a treat that’s perfect for sharing on chilly evenings
- Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the dough first, then let it chill while preparing the pumpkin filling. This sequence ensures optimal texture and flavor in your hand pies.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pumpkin for sweet potato or add chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist. Loaded Potato Soup for cozy evenings Customizing your filling can lead to delightful surprises!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for best results, maintaining their flaky crust.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect hand pies, ensure your dough is cold before rolling it out
- Avoid overfilling them to prevent bursting during baking
- For a golden finish, brush tops with an egg wash before baking
Sharing my first experience making these pumpkin hand pies feels like reliving a culinary adventure—my friends devoured them and insisted I make more for every gathering! For more inspiration, check out this roasted potatoes recipe recipe.
FAQ
What kind of pumpkin should I use for pumpkin hand pies?
Use pureed pumpkin, either canned or homemade, but avoid spiced pie filling.
Can I freeze leftover pumpkin hand pies?
Absolutely! Freeze them individually, and reheat directly from frozen when ready to enjoy.
How do I know when my pumpkin hand pies are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown crust; they usually take about 20-25 minutes at 375°F.
Pumpkin Hand Pies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 8 hand pies 1x
Description
Pumpkin Hand Pies are the perfect autumn treat, combining a flaky golden crust with a sweet and spiced pumpkin filling. These delightful pastries are easy to make and ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy snack. With just the right balance of cinnamon and nutmeg, each bite is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Make them for Thanksgiving, movie nights, or any festive occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade equivalent)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: chocolate chips or nuts for add-ins
Instructions
- Roll out the pie crust to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into 4-inch circles.
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Place a spoonful of filling on each circle, moisten edges with water, fold, and seal.
- Beat the egg with water; brush over pies and poke holes for steam vents.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Chill your dough prior to rolling for better texture. Experiment with different spices or fillings like sweet potato or chocolate chips for unique flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.