Irresistible Pumpkin Hand Pies Easy Recipe for Fall Delights

As the leaves begin to turn and the air carries a crispness that signals the arrival of fall, there’s no better time to celebrate the season with a delightful treat. Pumpkin hand pies encapsulate the essence of autumn, perfect for cozy evenings spent by the fireplace or festive gatherings with friends and family. Inspired by the classic pumpkin pie but with a fun, portable twist, these hand pies are the ideal snack for any occasion.

Hand pies have a long history, often associated with harvesting and home-cooked meals that bring loved ones together. This particular recipe draws from traditional flavors while offering a modern, easy-to-prepare approach. What makes these pumpkin hand pies truly special is their simplicity—filled with a rich, spiced pumpkin filling and encased in a flaky pastry, they are sure to become a favorite during the fall season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you are a fan of pumpkin spice, flaky pastries, and easy homemade desserts, then pumpkin hand pies are the perfect dish for you. Not only are they deliciously sweet and satisfying, but they also evoke the warm, comforting feelings of the fall season. What makes this recipe stand out is the combination of nostalgia and innovation—it’s a dish that both brings back childhood memories and offers a fun, new way to enjoy a seasonal favorite. Plus, they are incredibly versatile; serve them as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat!

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

These pumpkin hand pies are a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The filling is creamy and rich, thanks to the sweet pumpkin puree, which is spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating a warm, inviting aroma and flavor profile. The sweetness is perfectly balanced, making each bite a delightful experience. The crust is light and flaky, providing a satisfying contrast to the velvety filling. With a sprinkle of sugar on top, each hand pie has a slightly crunchy exterior that adds to the overall enjoyment. In every bite, you’ll taste the essence of autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these scrumptious pumpkin hand pies, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• For the Pie Crust:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – This is the base for our flaky crust, providing the structure and essential texture.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Butter creates flakiness and adds richness to the dough.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the filling.
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water – Helps bring the dough together without melting the butter, which is key for a flaky crust.
• For the Pumpkin Filling:
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree – Provides the main flavor; opt for canned pumpkin or homemade for the best taste.
  • ½ cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the filling.
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon – A classic spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg – Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
  • ¼ teaspoon ginger – Adds a bit of zing and complexity to the filling.
  • 1 egg (for egg wash) – Helps create a golden-brown crust.

Optional Additions

If you want to customize your pumpkin hand pies, consider these optional additions:

• For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pumpkin filling.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added for extra texture and flavor.
• Swap out some of the pumpkin puree for cream cheese for a richer filling.

Special Garnishes

Garnishes can elevate your pumpkin hand pies:

• Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
• Top with extra pumpkin seeds for a crunchy topping.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started! Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect pumpkin hand pies:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Pumpkin Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth and set aside.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut out circles using a 4-5 inch round cutter.
4. Fill the Hand Pies: Place a tablespoon of pumpkin filling in the center of each cut circle. Be careful not to overfill!
5. Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges, making a decorative border.
6. Prepare for Baking: Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg and brush the mixture over the tops of the pies for a golden finish. Sprinkle with sugar, if desired.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Recipe Variations

If you’re interested in trying different variations of pumpkin hand pies, consider making different fillings. Substitute the pumpkin with sweet potato, apple, or even a sweet cream cheese mixture for a twist. You can also try adding chocolate chips for a decadent touch, or use a pre-made puff pastry instead of making your own crust for a quick and easy option.

Serving and Storage Tips

These pumpkin hand pies are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. Pair them with a cup of warm cider or a delicious pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall experience. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness before serving again.

Helpful Tips

• Make sure your butter is really cold; this helps achieve that flaky crust.
• When rolling out the dough, use a light touch to avoid overworking it, which can make the crust tough.
• Don’t skip the chilling time for the dough; it is crucial for the best results!

Special Equipment

You will need a few items to make your pumpkin hand pies:

• A pastry cutter or food processor for making the dough quickly.
• A rolling pin to roll out the dough evenly.
• A round cutter to cut the pie shapes (you can also use a glass).
• A baking sheet and parchment paper to bake your hand pies on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pie crust is a great time-saver and can make your preparation process much quicker while still yielding delicious results.

How can I freeze the pumpkin hand pies?

To freeze, assemble the pies but don’t bake them. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I make these hand pies gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and they should turn out just as delicious.

What can I serve with pumpkin hand pies?

These pies pair wonderfully with whipped cream, a scoop of ice cream, or simply enjoyed with hot beverages like coffee or cider.

Conclusion

Pumpkin hand pies are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of fall flavors, tradition, and togetherness. This recipe is a unique way to enjoy the beloved tastes of pumpkin pie, wrapped up in a perfectly flaky crust. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a cozy treat for yourself, these hand pies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your home. Don’t forget to share your experiences or any twists you make in the comments below; we’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own!

Irresistible Pumpkin Hand Pies Easy Recipe for Fall Delights

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 hand pies 1x

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Description

Savor fall with irresistible pumpkin hand pies Enjoy this easy recipe for delightful treats perfect for autumn gatherings Sweetness in every bite

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

½ teaspoon salt

6–8 tablespoons ice water

1 cup pumpkin puree

½ cup brown sugar

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ginger

1 egg (for egg wash)

Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper, chopped pecans or walnuts, cream cheese

Garnishes: powdered sugar, pumpkin seeds, whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

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Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Make the Pumpkin Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut out circles using a 4-5 inch round cutter.

Fill the Hand Pies: Place a tablespoon of pumpkin filling in the center of each cut circle. Be careful not to overfill!

Seal the Pies: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to press and seal the edges, making a decorative border.

Prepare for Baking: Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg and brush the mixture over the tops of the pies for a golden finish. Sprinkle with sugar, if desired.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• hour: 1
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 200 calories
• Sugar: 8 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 28 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Protein: 2 grams