Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, sweet treat that feels like a warm hug in pastry form, this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe is calling your name. These individual pies are bursting with that classic spiced pumpkin filling nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for sharing at fall gatherings or sneaking a few for yourself, they are as charming to look at as they are delightful to eat. From the flaky crust that melts in your mouth to the rich, fragrant pumpkin center, these hand pies have quickly become a favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the crisp, buttery crust to the cozy blend of pumpkin and warming spices, you don’t need a long list—just a simple lineup of essentials that work together like best friends.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base for a flaky crust that holds the filling beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough for a well-rounded bite.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes: The key to a rich, tender, flaky crust that practically melts in your mouth.
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water: Brings the dough together, just enough to avoid toughness.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, delivering that smooth and creamy pumpkin flavor.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness with a molasses hint that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, familiar spice that defines pumpkin desserts.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a gentle zing that balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Intensifies the spiced profile with a subtle aromatic punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Completes the pumpkin spice quartet, making the filling irresistibly fragrant.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives your hand pies that beautiful golden shine and helps hold the edges together.
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a sparkly, sweet crunch on top after baking.
How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by whisking together the flour, salt, and sugar until evenly combined. Next, cut in the cold butter cubes using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because those little bits of butter will create the flaky layers you love in the crust.
Step 2: Bring the Dough Together
Gradually add the ice water, just a few tablespoons at a time, tossing everything with a fork until the dough starts to hold together without being wet or sticky. Then divide the dough into two discs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps relax the gluten and keeps the butter cold, giving you that perfect flaky texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
While the dough chills, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and fragrant. This filling is the true heart of your hand pies, packed with autumnal spice and just the right sweetness.
Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and use a round cutter to cut out circles, approximately 4 inches in diameter. Place a heaping tablespoon of pumpkin filling in the center of each circle.
Step 5: Seal and Decorate
Fold each dough circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork to secure and add charm. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash and sprinkle a little granulated sugar for that irresistible sparkle. Don’t forget to cut a couple of small slits on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape while baking!
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed. The aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through your kitchen will let you know you’re almost there!
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the pies cool slightly before diving in. These are delicious served warm or at room temperature, making them the perfect treat any time of day.
How to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze can take these hand pies from charming to show-stopping. For a touch of contrast, add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted pecans on top. These simple touches elevate the rustic beauty of your pies.
Side Dishes
Pair these delightful hand pies with a hot cup of spiced chai, rich coffee, or a creamy latte to complement the warm pumpkin spices. They also work well alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced brunch or afternoon tea.
Creative Ways to Present
Place your pumpkin hand pies on a rustic wooden board or vintage baking sheet, scattered with cinnamon sticks and fresh autumn leaves for a festive vibe. For a party, serve them in cute paper muffin liners or wrap them individually with twine and a tag to delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store your leftover pumpkin hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them in a cool spot ensures the crust stays crisp without drying out the filling.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze wonderfully! Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored frozen for up to two months, making them a perfect quick-fix dessert whenever pumpkin cravings strike.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to keep that flaky crust from turning soggy—you want every bite to be just as delightful as the first.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and keeps the filling smooth and flavorful. Just be sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sweetness.
Is it possible to make these vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan butter substitute and an egg wash alternative like plant-based milk mixed with maple syrup to achieve that golden crust without animal products.
Can I prepare the pie dough in advance?
Definitely! You can make the dough up to two days ahead and keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge. Bring it back to room temperature briefly before rolling out.
What size should I cut the dough circles?
A round cutter about 4 inches in diameter is ideal for individual-sized hand pies that are easy to hold and serve without filling spillage.
How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy from the filling?
Using cold butter and chilling the dough before rolling keeps the crust flaky and less likely to absorb moisture. Also, sealing the edges well and adding slits to vent steam help the crust stay crisp.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe enough for those cozy moments when you want a bite of fall in your hands. It’s simple, comforting, and utterly delicious—perfect for sharing with friends or indulging all by yourself. Give it a try soon, and watch how quickly these little parcels of pumpkin bliss disappear!
Print
Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 hand pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Hand Pies are a delightful seasonal treat combining a flaky, buttery crust with a spiced pumpkin filling. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy dessert, these individual pies are easy to make and bake to a golden perfection, offering a tasty way to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie in a handheld form.
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 large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the ice water, starting with 1/4 cup, mixing just until the dough comes together. Add more water if necessary. Divide the dough into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the filling is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc at a time to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut out circles. Place a spoonful of pumpkin filling in the center of each circle.
- Seal and Decorate: Fold each dough circle over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with the tines of a fork. Brush the tops with beaten egg wash and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
- Cut Slits and Bake: Cut a few small slits on the top of each hand pie to allow steam to escape. Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for a perfect fall snack or dessert.
Notes
- You can substitute pumpkin puree with canned pumpkin for convenience.
- Ensure the butter remains cold when mixing into the flour for a flaky crust.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent shrinking during baking.
- Adjust the amount of spices to your taste preference.
- These hand pies can be frozen before baking; bake directly from frozen with a few extra minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
