Pumpkin Hand Pies

When the fall season approaches, it brings with it a host of wonderful flavors that make our taste buds dance with delight. One of the most popular ingredients of the fall is pumpkin, and Pumpkin Hand Pies are the perfect way to celebrate this seasonal favorite. These charming little pastries are filled with creamy pumpkin puree, delightful spices, and a hint of sweetness, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, a dessert, or even a festive treat at gatherings, these hand pies are sure to be a hit!

What makes Pumpkin Hand Pies so appealing is not just their taste but also their presentation. They’re compact and easy to hold, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or Sunday afternoon tea. The combination of the warm spiced pumpkin filling and the crisp, golden-brown pastry creates a comforting experience that warms the heart as well as the stomach. Baking these pies fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of fall.

Ready to dive into the world of baking delicious Pumpkin Hand Pies? Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to create these scrumptious treats.

Ingredients about Pumpkin Hand Pies

List of ingredients with measurements

• All Butter Pie Dough or Homemade Pie Dough
• 1 large egg (beaten with 1 Tablespoon milk for the egg wash)
• 1 and 1/4 cups pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 6 Tablespoons packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 3 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 Tablespoon milk
• 1/2 teaspoon maple or vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you find yourself short on any of the main ingredients, worry not! Here are some simple substitutions you can make:

• For the pie dough, you can use store-bought refrigerated pie crust if you want to save time.
• If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the egg and milk in the egg wash with a plant-based milk alternative and a touch of maple syrup for sweetness.
• Instead of pumpkin puree, you can use sweet potato puree for a slightly different flavor.
• If pumpkin pie spice isn’t available, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies

Step 1: Make the crust ahead

Start by preparing the pie dough ahead of time. If you’re making homemade pie dough, mix your ingredients together and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time helps the dough rest and allows it to become easier to roll out, as well as creating a flakier crust after baking.

Step 2: Roll out the dough

After your dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cutter or a lid about 5 inches in diameter to cut out circles. Place your circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill them again for about 15 minutes to firm up before adding the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the filling

In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, a large egg, the packed brown sugar, all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk all the ingredients together until smooth. This creamy, spiced mixture will be the star of your hand pies!

Step 4: Assemble the hand pies

Take one dough circle from the refrigerator and spoon about a tablespoon of pumpkin filling onto one half of the circle. Make sure to leave enough space around the edges so you can seal the pie. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with a fork or your fingers to ensure a tight seal. Repeat this process for each dough circle.

Step 5: Prepare for baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the assembled hand pies back on the lined baking sheet. Brush the tops of each pie with the egg wash made from the beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of milk. This will give them a beautiful golden color when baked. Cut a few small slits in the top of each pie for steam to escape.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool and ice

After baking, let the pies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the icing

While the pies cool, prepare the icing. In a bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup, milk, and either maple or vanilla extract. The icing should be thick but pourable.

Step 9: Decorate

Once cooled, you can either dip the tops of the hand pies in the icing or drizzle it over the tops for a beautiful finish.

Step 10: Serve and enjoy

Your Pumpkin Hand Pies are now ready to be enjoyed! They are perfect for sharing with family and friends during gatherings, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home with a warm drink.

How to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies

Best ways to serve Pumpkin Hand Pies

Pumpkin Hand Pies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For the best experience, serve them warm right out of the oven with a cup of warm spiced cider or a latte. The warm filling complements a cool beverage beautifully.

Serving suggestions or pairings

Pair your hand pies with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat. They also make a delicious addition to a dessert spread at a fall gathering or Thanksgiving dinner. Consider pairing them with seasonal fruits like pears or apples to create a delightful fruit platter alongside the pies.

How to Store Pumpkin Hand Pies

Proper storage methods

If you have leftovers, store your Pumpkin Hand Pies at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just ensure they are completely cooled before you store them away.

Tips for reheating or freezing

To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, though the crust may become softer. If you want to freeze them, do so before baking. Assemble the hand pies, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake them, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overfilling the hand pies with pumpkin filling, which can lead to messy pies that burst during baking. Stick to about 1 tablespoon of filling for the best results. Additionally, make sure the dough is cold enough before rolling it out; if it’s too warm, it can become sticky and difficult to work with.

Helpful tips for better results

For perfectly flaky crusts, avoid overworking the dough. Mix it just until the ingredients come together. Give the dough sufficient chilling time; this helps solidify the butter and leads to a beautifully flaky texture. Also, remember to cut steam vents in the pies before baking to ensure they cook evenly and don’t puff up.

Variation of Pumpkin Hand Pies

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

If you want to try a unique twist on traditional pumpkin hand pies, consider adding different spices to your filling, such as ginger or cloves, for an added depth of flavor. You could also incorporate finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch in the filling.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For those who are gluten intolerant, you can easily make gluten-free Pumpkin Hand Pies by using gluten-free all-purpose flour in your dough and for the filling. Additionally, consider using a dairy-free butter substitute in the dough for a vegan version, combined with plant-based milk and egg replacements.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your hand pies are not sealing properly, ensure that the edges are well-wet and sealed before baking. If the crust is too crumbly, it may need additional moisture; add a little cold water or milk to the dough during preparation.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. You can also form the hand pies ahead of time and freeze them unbaked. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw; just place them in the oven and add a few minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

When it comes to substitutions, different types of sugar can be used, such as coconut sugar or granulated sugar. For the pumpkin puree, feel free to experiment with other purees like butternut squash or even apple for a different take on the filling.

Pumpkin Hand Pies are a warm, comforting treat that captures the essence of fall. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring the joys of the season to your table. Happy baking!

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