Name: Jack O' Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 batch pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or roasted); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp pumpkin spice; 1 egg (for egg wash)

The aroma of freshly baked Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies wafts through the air, enticing everyone with a sweet, spicy scent that’s as inviting as a cozy fall afternoon. These delightful pastries are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them perfect for Halloween gatherings or simply as a fun family dessert. no bake fudge dessert.

Imagine biting into a flaky crust that gives way to a warm, spiced pumpkin filling, reminiscent of your favorite pumpkin pie yet perfectly portable. As you savor each bite, memories of carving pumpkins and sipping cider come rushing back—these hand pies capture the essence of autumn in every delicious morsel!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy schedules.

The delightful flavor combines sweet and spicy notes that will have your taste buds dancing.
With their charming pumpkin faces, they add visual appeal to any festive occasion.
Enjoy them at Halloween parties or as an everyday treat; they're versatile enough for any gathering!

Ingredients for Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies

For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe.

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:

Pie Crust: You can use store-bought or homemade pie crust; either works well for these hand pies.
Pumpkin Puree: Use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or roast fresh pumpkin for a richer flavor.

Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Pumpkin Spice: This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger provides the quintessential autumn flavor.
Egg Wash: A mixture of egg and water helps achieve that perfect golden color on your hand pies.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because a hot oven helps achieve that delightful flaky crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin spice. Mix well until everything is blended smoothly—just imagine how lovely it will smell!

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out your pie crust into about a quarter-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut out circles—don’t forget to make some Jack O’ Lantern faces!

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

Place one circle on parchment-lined baking sheets. Spoon some pumpkin filling onto half of each circle, leaving space around the edges. Top with another circle and press down gently to seal.

Step 5: Create Faces

Using a small knife or kitchen scissors, carefully cut out eyes and mouths in the top layer of dough. This will allow steam to escape during baking while giving them their spooky charm.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Brush each hand pie with egg wash for that golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until puffed up and golden brown. Transfer to cooling racks before serving—if you can resist the temptation!

Enjoy your Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies warm from the oven or at room temperature; they make excellent treats for trick-or-treaters or cozy evenings at home! warm creamy tomato soup.

You Must Know

These Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies are not just adorable; they are the perfect fall snack that combines flaky pastry with a spiced pumpkin filling.

You can easily whip them up for Halloween parties or cozy autumn evenings, making every bite a delightful treat.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results, start by preparing the pumpkin filling while your pie crust chills in the refrigerator. Roll out the dough, cut out your shapes, fill them with delicious pumpkin goodness, and seal them before baking to golden perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize these hand pies by adding chocolate chips for a sweet surprise or swap pumpkin spice with apple pie seasoning for a different flavor twist. You can even incorporate nuts for an added crunch!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until they're warm and crispy again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly flaky hand pies, chill your dough before rolling it out.
This prevents it from becoming too soft and unmanageable.
Always seal your edges well to avoid leaks during baking.

Finally, brush the tops with egg wash for a beautiful shine!

Sometimes I make these hand pies for my neighbors' kids, and their faces light up like little jack-o’-lanterns when they see them! It’s heartwarming to share joy through food.

FAQs:

What are Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies?

Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies are delightful pastries filled with a spiced pumpkin mixture and shaped like Halloween pumpkins. These hand-held treats are perfect for fall celebrations, offering a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. tasty strawberry custard tarts The crust is flaky and golden, while the filling brings warmth with cinnamon and nutmeg. They make a fun addition to any Halloween party or autumn gathering, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

How can I make the crust for Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies?

To create the crust for your Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Pies, mix all-purpose flour with chilled butter until you achieve a crumbly texture. Then, add cold water gradually to form a dough. Chill the dough before rolling it out to ensure it becomes flaky when baked. Using cookie cutters, shape the crust into pumpkin forms for that festive touch. It’s essential to keep the dough cold throughout the process for best results!

Can I use canned pumpkin for the filling?

Yes, using canned pumpkin is an excellent option for making the filling of Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Pies. Canned pumpkin puree provides convenience and consistency in flavor. Just mix it with sugar, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and some cream cheese if desired for extra richness. Ensure you drain any excess moisture from the puree to prevent soggy pies. This way, you’ll achieve a perfectly spiced filling every time!

How do I store leftover Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies?

To store leftover Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Pies, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any moisture. Store them in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within a few days or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply pop them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through; this will help restore their crispy texture!

Conclusion for Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Hand Pies:

In summary, Jack O’ Lantern Pumpkin Pies offer a festive way to enjoy seasonal flavors in a fun shape. With a simple crust recipe and an easy-to-make pumpkin filling, these hand pies are perfect for Halloween gatherings or autumn festivities. delicious chocolate dipped pretzels Remember to store leftovers properly so you can savor these delicious treats later on! Enjoy creating these delightful pastries and impress your friends and family this fall!