If you are searching for a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of cozy autumn days, you have to try this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe. These charming little parcels combine a flaky, buttery crust with a warm, spiced pumpkin filling that feels like a hug in every bite. They are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo alongside your favorite warm beverage. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon indulgence, this recipe brings together comfort and ease in a way that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors—from the tender crust to the creamy, warmly spiced filling.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a flaky, tender pie crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors in both crust and filling.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates that delicate, flaky texture in the dough.
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water: Helps bring the dough together without melting the butter.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient packed with rich flavor and vibrant color.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Adds depth and caramel notes to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and classic fall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Intensifies the autumnal spice profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a nutty, cozy undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the filling with a mellow sweetness.
- 1 egg, beaten: For brushing the tops to get a golden, shiny finish.
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a sparkle and extra crunch to the baked pies.
How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Then, use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This technique ensures your crust will be flaky and tender. Next, slowly add the ice water, just enough so that the dough comes together without becoming sticky. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them tightly in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. The chilling step is essential to prevent the butter from melting too soon and helps with handling the dough easily.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling
While your dough chills, get the filling ready by combining pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir everything well until the mixture is smooth and fragrant. These warm spices meld beautifully with the pumpkin to deliver that unmistakable cozy flavor we all crave during fall and holiday season. The filling should be thick but spreadable—perfect for stuffing inside your hand pies without oozing out.
Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). On a floured surface, roll out one chilled dough disc to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or a glass about 4 inches in diameter to cut circles from the dough. Place a spoonful of the pumpkin filling in the center of each circle, making sure not to overfill. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal them completely. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar for that lovely sparkle and crunch.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer the assembled pies to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cut a few small slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking. Pop them in the oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on them toward the end, as each oven varies a little. When done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will already have you reaching for one!
How to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe, consider finishing them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans on top can add a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty spice notes. Fresh whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon is another fantastic option that complements the filling perfectly.
Side Dishes
These hand pies are wonderfully versatile and pair beautifully with autumn-inspired sides. Serve them alongside a steaming cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee to bring out the spices in the filling. For a heartier snack, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream with a drizzle of honey can add a luscious contrast to the flaky crust.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun when sharing your Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with fall leaves and small pumpkins around to create a cozy vibe. Wrap a few in parchment paper tied with twine for gifting or bring them to a party as individual treats. You can even customize the shape of your pies using different cookie cutters—stars, leaves, or classic circles—to add a playful, seasonal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Pumpkin Hand Pies left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They maintain their flaky crust best when not refrigerated immediately. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days, though the crust may become less crisp.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze beautifully, making them a perfect make-ahead treat. After assembling, place the hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen using a slightly longer baking time, ensuring they cook through without losing their delightful texture.
Reheating
To reheat your Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe, warm them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 10 minutes. This method revives the crispiness of the crust and gently warms the filling. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works wonderfully and is a convenient option. Just be sure it is 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Definitely! The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 48 hours before assembling the hand pies. Just let it come to room temperature slightly before rolling out.
How can I make the filling less sweet?
Simply reduce the amount of brown sugar in the filling to suit your taste. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and highlight the spices.
What if I don’t have an egg for the wash?
You can brush the pies with milk or cream instead, although the egg wash gives the best golden shine. Alternatively, a light coating of melted butter before baking also works well for browning.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this wonderful Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe in your arsenal, you’re ready to bring a bit of autumn magic into your kitchen with ease. These hand pies are not only charming and delicious, but they also fill your home with heartwarming aromas that invite smiles and cozy moments. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy sharing this beloved seasonal treat with those you care about.
Print
Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Hand Pies are a delightful fall treat featuring a buttery, flaky crust filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture. Perfect for serving warm or at room temperature, these hand pies combine seasonal flavors with a portable, easy-to-eat format ideal for gatherings or cozy snacks.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
Filling
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the cold cubed unsalted butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually pour in the ice water starting with 1/4 cup, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Add more water if needed, but be careful not to overwork the dough. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and evenly blended.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it reaches the proper baking temperature while you assemble the pies.
- Roll out Dough and Cut Circles: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough discs into about 1/8-inch thick sheets. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles approximately 4 to 5 inches in diameter for the hand pies.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Place a spoonful of the pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing with a fork, ensuring the pies are well closed to prevent leakage during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush the tops of the pies with beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden sheen. Sprinkle granulated sugar over the tops for a sweet, crunchy finish. Cut a few small slits in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Place the prepared hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the hand pies to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy this seasonal treat.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is crucial to achieving a flaky crust.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute butter with a firm coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Leftover pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to refresh the crust.
- Adjust spices to taste for a milder or stronger spice flavor.
