As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling my kitchen. That’s when I love to whip up these delicious Pumpkin Hand Pies, each one a delightful pocket of autumn warmth. This simple recipe combines the classic flavors of pumpkin spice with a flaky, golden crust, making them the ultimate handheld dessert for any gathering—be it Thanksgiving or a cozy fall get-together.
What I adore most about these little treats is their versatility; they’re quick to assemble with minimal ingredients and pack a sweet punch that just evokes happy memories of the season. Imagine offering these charming pies to friends over a warm drink, with smiles all around as they bite into the soft, creamy filling. Join me as we explore how to make these irresistible Pumpkin Hand Pies—it’s the perfect way to celebrate fall without all the fuss!
Why are Pumpkin Hand Pies a Must-Make?
Delightful flavors come together in every bite, with the perfect mix of pumpkin spice and sweet creaminess. Handheld convenience makes them ideal for gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy a cozy treat on the go. Simple to prepare, you can whip up these tasty pies in no time—perfect for those last-minute dessert needs. Crowd-pleasing appeal guarantees smiles all around when served warm with vanilla ice cream. Versatile options exist to customize the filling, ensuring there’s something for everyone! Dive into the joy of fall baking with these easy-to-make Pumpkin Hand Pies that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Pumpkin Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- Refrigerated Pie Crust – A convenient option that ensures a flaky texture; feel free to use a homemade pie crust if you’re up for it!
For the Filling
- Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient that brings flavor and moisture; avoid pumpkin pie filling as it’s too watery.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel; granulated sugar can be swapped if needed.
- Heavy Cream – Provides richness to the filling; you can substitute with milk for a lighter option.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the filling with cozy fall flavors; use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you’re out.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
For the Assembly
- Large Egg – For the egg wash that gives the pies a golden finish.
- Coarse Sugar – An optional topping for added sweetness and crunchy texture; turbinado sugar works great here.
How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps achieve that golden, flaky crust we all love.
-
Roll out the pie crusts gently and cut them into 3½-inch pumpkin shapes, then set them aside in the refrigerator. Keeping the crust chilled ensures it stays flaky during baking.
-
Combine the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and well blended—this filling is the heart of your Pumpkin Hand Pies!
-
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto half of the pumpkin cutouts, leaving a bit of space around the edges to allow for sealing.
-
Vent the remaining cutouts by cutting decorative slits into them. This is crucial for letting steam escape during baking and prevents bursting!
-
Assemble your pies by brushing the edges of the filled cutouts with egg wash, placing the slitted ones on top, and crimping the edges to seal them tightly.
-
Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you desire a little extra crunch and sweetness with each bite.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving—trust me, the wait is worth it!
Optional: Serve these delightful pies with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of comfort.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pumpkin Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your pumpkin hand pies with these delightful twists. Each option opens the door to new flavor experiences!
- Sweet Potato: Swap the pumpkin puree for sweet potato for a unique sweetness and vibrant color.
- Butternut Squash: Use roasted butternut squash puree for a buttery, smooth filling that pairs beautifully with spices.
- Chocolate Chips: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling for a delectable burst of chocolatey goodness. You can mix the chips right into the pumpkin blend to elevate each bite!
- Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy filling. Just be sure to adjust the filling amount accordingly.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger into the filling for a warm and surprising heat that contrasts the sweetness.
- Maple Sugar: Swap out the brown sugar for maple sugar to introduce a rich, rounded sweetness with a hint of depth.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for an extra layer of flavor and a sweet crust. The caramelization in the oven brings a delicious twist!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Pumpkin Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roll out your pie crust and cut the shapes, then store them in the refrigerator to keep them chilled and flaky. For the filling, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, heavy cream, and spices, and refrigerate it until ready to use. When it’s time to bake, simply assemble the pies by filling the cutouts and sealing them as directed, then pop them in the oven. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm Pumpkin Hand Pies with minimal effort, making your fall gatherings a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Hand Pies
-
Room Temperature: Store pumpkin hand pies at room temperature for up to 2 days in a covered container to keep them fresh and flavorful.
-
Fridge: To maintain freshness, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps preserve the filling’s creamy texture.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual pumpkin hand pies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
-
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through for that freshly-baked taste.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Hand Pies
-
Chill the Dough: Keeping your pie crust chilled is crucial for achieving extra flakiness. Warm dough can lead to tough crusts that don’t hold shape well.
-
Avoid Overfilling: It’s tempting to add more filling, but stick to about 2 tablespoons per pie to prevent bursting during baking. Less is more!
-
Vent Wisely: Cutting slits in the tops allows steam to escape and prevents your pies from exploding in the oven. Don’t skip this step for your Pumpkin Hand Pies!
-
Egg Wash Magic: Brush well with egg wash for that dreamy golden-brown finish. It elevates not just the look, but also the texture.
-
Experiment with Spice: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, feel free to mix your own using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a lovely warm flavor profile.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Hand Pies?
Pumpkin Hand Pies are a delightful treat, perfect for spicing up any fall gathering or cozy evening.
-
Whipped Cream: A classic pairing that adds a light and creamy texture, enhancing the warm spices of your pies.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts with the warm, spiced pumpkin filling, creating a heavenly bite.
-
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar not only adds sweetness but also enhances the flavor profile, inviting every bite.
These little touches elevate the entire experience and create an unforgettable dessert moment.
-
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over your hand pies can elevate their flavor and make each bite decadently sweet. Perfect for a fall party!
-
Coffee or Chai Tea: Serve your pies with a warm mug of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy vibe, perfect for those chilly autumn evenings.
-
Fresh Apple Slices: Crispy and refreshing, a side of sliced apples offers a contrasting crunch that complements the soft filling beautifully.
-
Pumpkin Spice Lattes: Heighten your festive mood by serving your hand pies with pumpkin spice lattes, making a holiday-inspired pairing that’s simply irresistible.
Adding these elements makes each gathering feel even more special, enticing your guests with the perfect balance of flavors and comfort.
Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! You want to use pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which is too wet. If you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast it, scoop the flesh, and puree it for an even more flavorful filling. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture!
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Hand Pies?
To keep your pies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help maintain the creamy texture of the filling. At room temperature, they’re good for about 2 days, but I recommend refrigeration for the best taste!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Hand Pies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes for that fresh-baked goodness.
Why did my Pumpkin Hand Pies burst while baking?
Very! This usually happens if there isn’t enough venting for steam to escape. Make sure to cut decorative slits in the tops of the pies before baking, allowing the steam to release properly. Also, stick to about 2 tablespoons of filling to prevent overstuffing.
Can I use alternatives for dietary restrictions?
Of course! You can use almond milk or oat milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option. For those with gluten sensitivities, a gluten-free pie crust can work wonders. If you’re adjusting for sugar, coconut sugar is a great alternative too—just keep an eye on the sweetness level in your filling.
How should I serve Pumpkin Hand Pies?
Oh, the more the merrier! Serve these delightful treats warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that ultimate cozy experience. They’re perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, Halloween parties, or just enjoying on a crisp fall evening.
Irresistible Pumpkin Hand Pies for Cozy Fall Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie crusts gently and cut them into 3½-inch pumpkin shapes, then set them aside in the refrigerator.
- Combine the pumpkin puree, light brown sugar, heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto half of the pumpkin cutouts, leaving a bit of space around the edges.
- Vent the remaining cutouts by cutting decorative slits into them.
- Assemble your pies by brushing the edges of the filled cutouts with egg wash, placing the slitted ones on top, and crimping the edges.
- Brush the tops with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.