If anything signals the arrival of cozy sweater weather, it’s the delightful aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe cooling on your kitchen counter. These sweet, perfectly spiced handheld treats wrap everything you love about classic pumpkin pie into a portable, golden-crusted bundle. Whether you’re planning to wow your friends at a fall gathering or simply want an easy dessert for family movie night, this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe is about to become your new go-to. The creamy pumpkin filling, fragrant spices, and buttery pastry come together in every bite, making it impossible to stop at just one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients can create such a wow-worthy dessert! Each component plays a key role in building flavor and getting that irresistible texture that sets these pies apart.
- Canned pumpkin puree: The heart of the filling—make sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix, for the best flavor and control over sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Adds rich, caramel-like sweetness that melts perfectly into the spiced filling.
- Pumpkin pie spice: This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove delivers the classic, comforting flavor you expect from any pumpkin treat.
- Cinnamon: An extra dash for warmth and depth, amplifying the scent and taste of the season.
- Salt: Just a pinch helps balance the sweetness and elevates all those cozy flavors.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the filling with a subtle aromatic note—don’t skip it!
- Large egg (for filling): Binds everything together and ensures a creamy, custardy texture in each pie.
- Refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade): Super convenient, these create that golden, flaky shell that everyone loves—homemade is wonderful if you have the time.
- Egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash): Brushed over the top for a bakery-worthy shine and golden finish.
- Coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar (optional topping): Gives an eye-catching sparkle and a sweet, crunchy bite to each hand pie.
How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a medium bowl, stir together your pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, and one egg. Mix until creamy and completely homogeneous—you want every bit of sugar and spice blended smoothly, so each pie is bursting with flavor.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Pie Crusts
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your store-bought or homemade pie crusts to even thickness. Using a large round cookie cutter or the rim of a drinking glass (4 to 5 inches in diameter works perfectly), cut out as many circles as possible. Gather and re-roll dough scraps to get about 10 circles in total.
Step 3: Fill and Seal the Hand Pies
Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the pumpkin filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold each one in half, making a little half-moon, and gently press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp and seal the sides—this not only ensures your pies stay closed in the oven but also adds a charming rustic look.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Arrange your pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to leave a bit of space between each one. Brush the tops with your egg wash for a lovely sheen, and if you like, sprinkle a little coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar on top for extra sparkle and crunch. Cut a small slit in each pie for steam to escape, which will keep your pastry crisp.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the tray in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly. Let the pumpkin hand pies cool for a few minutes before digging in—they’ll be warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible!
How to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving for a magical snowy effect, or drizzle a little vanilla glaze if you’re feeling extra indulgent. A touch of cinnamon sugar right before the hand pies hit the oven gives them a gorgeous finish and a bakery-style crunch.
Side Dishes
Pair these hand pies with a cozy cup of chai latte, mulled apple cider, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re really celebrating. A bowl of fresh-sliced apples or a handful of roasted nuts alongside makes for a perfect fall-inspired dessert board.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe on a rustic cake stand or arrange them in a cute basket lined with a linen towel for a farmhouse feel. For parties, serve each hand pie tucked into a parchment sleeve or napkin for easy grab-and-go snacking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare!), simply store the pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, pop them in the fridge where they’ll last three to four days, still tasting freshly baked with just a quick warm-up.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze like a dream! Let them cool completely, then wrap each pie in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months—just defrost overnight in the fridge or pop straight into a low oven from frozen for a quick treat.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked flavor and crisp crust, reheat your Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 8 minutes. If you’re short on time, a few seconds in the microwave will do, but the oven always brings back the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade crust adds a unique touch and flavor. If you have a favorite pastry recipe, go for it—just roll it to a similar thickness and follow the cutting instructions. Store-bought crust works perfectly for convenience but homemade is always a win when you have the time.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The pumpkin filling for your Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe can be mixed up a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. This even helps the flavors meld together for an even tastier result.
What other fillings work with this hand pie method?
Get creative with fruit jams, sweetened cream cheese, or even apple-cinnamon filling. This hand pie method is super versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors throughout the seasons!
How do I keep the edges of the pies from opening during baking?
Crimping the edges well with a fork and making sure not to overfill the pies will help them seal tightly. If you want extra security, you can also brush a bit of water or egg wash along the edges before crimping.
Can the Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular pie crust for your go-to gluten-free pie dough. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so the only adjustment needed is the crust.
Final Thoughts
Warm, flaky, and packed with spiced pumpkin goodness, this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe is a charming way to bring the flavors of fall right into your hands. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly they disappear, whether you serve them at a cozy gathering or enjoy them all to yourself with a cup of tea!
Print
Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 hand pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful Pumpkin Hand Pies. Made with a spiced pumpkin filling encased in flaky pastry, these handheld treats are perfect for seasonal gatherings or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Filling:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (for filling)
Crust and Assembly:
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix filling: In a bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.
- Prepare crusts: Roll out pie crusts, cut into circles, and place filling in the center. Fold in half, seal edges, and arrange on baking sheet.
- Egg wash and bake: Brush tops with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, make slits for steam, and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden.
- Cool and serve: Allow pies to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Make the filling a day ahead and refrigerate for convenience.
- Enhance richness by adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or mini chocolate chips to the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hand pie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
