Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe

If there’s one sweet treat that perfectly captures the cozy spirit of autumn (and satisfies your cravings for pumpkin spice), it’s these delightful Pumpkin Hand Pies. Imagine golden, flaky crusts wrapped around a warmly spiced pumpkin filling—portable, adorable, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a party, an after-dinner snack, or to stash away for a midnight bite, Pumpkin Hand Pies promise a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s as much fun to make as it is to share.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pumpkin Hand Pies keep things wonderfully simple, using everyday ingredients that come together for an unforgettable treat. Every component plays its part in delivering sweetness, spice, and that coveted bakery-style finish right from your kitchen!

• Refrigerated pie crusts (1 package, 2 crusts): The golden, flaky shell—the ultimate shortcut for quick, stress-free baking without sacrificing taste.
• Canned pumpkin puree (1 cup): Classic fall flavor in every bite; make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brings deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with warming spices.
• Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Lends brightness and extra sweetness, balancing the earthiness of pumpkin.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 teaspoon): The heart of pumpkin treats—a fragrant blend that truly defines the season.
• Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a slightly sweet kick to amp up the spice.
• Large egg (1): Binds the filling for a creamy, cohesive texture that holds up inside the crust.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Gives subtle aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Pinch of salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness and bring all the flavors forward.
• Large egg beaten (for egg wash): Brushing this on the crust gives your hand pies a gorgeous, glossy finish.
• Coarse sugar (2 tablespoons): A must for that bakery-style sparkle and an irresistible sweet crunch on top.

How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready to deliver golden perfection when your Pumpkin Hand Pies go in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to keep those precious pies from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, one large egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and luscious—this is the secret to that irresistible, creamy center.

Step 3: Shape the Pie Crusts

Unroll your refrigerated pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. Using a 4-inch round cutter (or the rim of a glass), cut out as many circles as you can. These circles form the perfect pocket for your filling and give each hand pie that signature bakery look.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pumpkin Hand Pies

Place a spoonful of the pumpkin filling in the center of half the circles. Brush the edges with a bit of beaten egg to help them stick, then top with the remaining dough circles. Use a fork to press around the edges, sealing each hand pie with those classic crimped marks.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Transfer the assembled Pumpkin Hand Pies onto your lined baking sheet. Brush each top with more egg wash for shine, and sprinkle generously with coarse sugar. Don’t forget to cut a small slit in each pie to let steam escape during baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the hand pies are puffed and gloriously golden brown. The aroma in your kitchen will be irresistible at this point! Let them cool just slightly before digging in to avoid burning your tongue on that creamy filling.

How to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar across the tops adds instant elegance, but you can also whip up a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a splash of milk. Once the pies are cool, drizzle the glaze in zigzags for extra sweetness and a personal touch.

Side Dishes

For a cozy fall spread, pair Pumpkin Hand Pies with mugs of hot apple cider, chai tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These little pies are a dream next to fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a complete dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Pumpkin Hand Pies look beautiful stacked on a rustic wooden board or arranged on a tiered serving tray. For parties, tie each gently in parchment and twine for ultimate grab-and-go charm. They’re also fantastic packed into lunchboxes for a sweet surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Pumpkin Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them a bit longer, the fridge will do the trick and help preserve their flavor and texture.

Freezing

Let the pies cool completely, then wrap each tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Stash the wrapped pies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep for up to three months—perfect for planning ahead or snacking emergencies!

Reheating

To enjoy that just-baked taste again, pop Pumpkin Hand Pies in a preheated 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. You can also use the microwave for a quick warm-up, but the oven keeps that lovely flaky crust crisp.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade pie crust brings a deliciously rich flavor and extra flakiness. If you have the time, swap in your favorite recipe, but store-bought works wonderfully for quick baking sessions.

Can I make Pumpkin Hand Pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the pies and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them wonderful for prepping ahead of holiday gatherings or parties.

How do I prevent my filling from leaking out?

Be sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork, and don’t overfill the pies—about a tablespoon per hand pie is perfect. Brushing edges with egg wash also helps keep everything snug inside.

Can I add other flavors to the filling?

Absolutely—consider mixing in a touch of maple syrup or a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added texture and fall flavor. Adjust the spices to your taste for a unique spin on the classic.

Are Pumpkin Hand Pies best served warm or cold?

They’re delicious either way, but serving them warm brings out the gooey, spiced center and enhances their comforting aroma. A quick reheat makes them taste freshly baked every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an autumn treat that’s easy to make and bound to impress, give Pumpkin Hand Pies a try. Their cozy flavors and simple prep make them irresistible for bakers of all levels—once you taste that first bite, you’ll want to whip these up again and again!

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