Name: Pumpkin Hand Pies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts.; 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree.; 2 tablespoons brown sugar.; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger.; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves.; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract.; 1 large egg (for egg wash).; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling).

Pumpkin Hand Pies with Flaky Crust are the perfect portable fall treat. These delicious hand pies feature a buttery, flaky crust filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture made from pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Once filled and folded into their signature half-moon shape, the pies are sealed, brushed with an egg wash, and sprinkled with sugar for extra sweetness and crunch. Baked until golden brown and crispy, these pies are great for enjoying on the go, making them a favorite for autumn parties, picnics, or cozy gatherings. Serve them warm with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Pumpkin Hand Pies with Flaky Crust are a delicious fall treat that combines the warmth of spiced pumpkin filling with the crispness of a buttery, flaky crust. These hand pies are perfect for a cozy dessert or snack, and they’re incredibly easy to make. The filling, made with canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and a blend of autumn spices, is encased in store-bought pie crusts for a simple yet satisfying dessert. Each pie is brushed with an egg wash, sprinkled with sugar, and baked until golden brown. Whether you're making them for a fall party or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these Pumpkin Hand Pies are a must-try for the season.

INGREDIENTS

Refrigerated pie crusts: 1 package (2 sheets), for a flaky and buttery crust
Pumpkin puree: 1/2 cup, adds richness and moisture to the filling
Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons, packed, for sweetness
Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon, adds warmth and spice
Ground ginger: 1/4 teaspoon, for a subtle spicy kick
Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, enhances the fall flavor
Ground cloves: 1/4 teaspoon, adds depth to the filling
Vanilla extract: 1/4 teaspoon, enhances the sweetness
Egg: 1 large, for the egg wash, to give the pies a golden finish
Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon, for sprinkling on top of the pies

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: Roll out the pie crusts and cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass (about 4 inches in diameter).
Step 3:: In a small bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and vanilla extract.
Step 4:: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin filling onto the center of each dough circle.
Step 5:: Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Step 6:: Brush each pie with egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Step 7:: Use a sharp knife to cut small slits on the top of each pie for venting.
Step 8:: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Store the hand pies in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Helpful Notes

You can use homemade pie crusts if you prefer, but store-bought makes this recipe quick and easy.
If you don’t have a cookie cutter, use the rim of a drinking glass to cut the dough into circles.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Martha Stewart suggests adding a pinch of cardamom to the filling for an exotic twist on the traditional pumpkin pie flavors.

Perfect for Fall Gatherings

Pumpkin Hand Pies with Flaky Crust are ideal for any fall celebration. Whether you're hosting a Halloween party or preparing for Thanksgiving, these hand pies are sure to be a hit. Their small, portable size makes them easy to serve, and the warm spiced filling paired with a buttery crust is the perfect flavor combination for the season.

FAQs

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin filling up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Can I freeze the hand pies?

Yes, freeze the baked hand pies in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Can I use different fillings for these hand pies?

Absolutely! Try apple, cherry, or even chocolate fillings for a variety of flavors.

Do I need to use an egg wash?

The egg wash helps give the pies a golden, crispy finish, but you can skip it if you prefer a less shiny crust.

Summary

Pumpkin Hand Pies with Flaky Crust are a fun and easy way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Made with store-bought pie crusts, these hand pies come together quickly, making them a convenient option for busy bakers. The spiced pumpkin filling is sweetened with brown sugar and flavored with a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Once the filling is spooned onto the dough circles, the pies are folded and sealed, creating a perfectly portable treat. After a quick bake in the oven, the pies turn golden and crispy, with a soft, spiced filling inside. They're perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or simply as a delicious snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. For an extra treat, serve the hand pies warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. These hand pies can also be made ahead and reheated, making them a great option for a quick and easy dessert.