There’s something undeniably comforting about a portable treat that’s both nostalgic and irresistible, and this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe truly delivers on every level. Imagine flaky, golden pastry giving way to a warm, spiced sweet potato filling that tastes like autumn in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack, a festive holiday table, or just because you crave something sweet and simple, these hand pies capture everything wonderful about homemade desserts — with a shortcut or two to keep things easy. Let’s dive into your next baking adventure!

Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe is just how approachable the ingredient list is! Each item brings its own special magic, from the creamy sweet potato and fragrant spices to the ready-made crust that makes the process a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Mashed cooked sweet potato: The soul of the filling, offering natural sweetness, vibrant color, and a creamy texture.
Brown sugar: Adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Ground cinnamon: Delivers cozy warmth and that classic “pie” flavor we all love.
Ground nutmeg: Brings a subtle, earthy spice that deepens the flavor profile.
Ground ginger: Just a hint wakes up the filling with a gentle zing.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens all the flavors.
Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth and a touch of bakery-style comfort.
Refrigerated pie crusts: A time-saving shortcut that bakes up flaky and golden every time.
Egg: Beaten for a beautiful egg wash, creating that irresistible golden sheen.
Granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top for a sparkly, sweet crunch.

How to Make Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your hand pies are ready to bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking — trust me, this little step makes a big difference!

Step 2: Make the Sweet Potato Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine your mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and evenly blended, with all the spices mingling into one cozy, fragrant mixture. This is where the magic happens — taste and adjust the spices if you like a little extra warmth!

Step 3: Roll and Cut 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. Gather and re-roll the scraps to get about 10 rounds in total. These will be the perfect, handheld size for your pies!

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pies

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sweet potato mixture onto the center of half the rounds. Place another round on top of each, then press the edges together with a fork to seal and create that signature crimped look. This ensures none of that luscious filling escapes during baking.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Sugar Sprinkle

Transfer your assembled pies to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish, then sprinkle with granulated sugar for a bit of sparkle and crunch. Don’t forget to cut a small slit in the top of each pie — this vents steam so your crusts stay flaky, not soggy!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Slide your tray into the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pies are beautifully golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly. Let them cool slightly before serving — the filling will be hot!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe

Garnishes

For a charming finish, try dusting your hand pies with a little powdered sugar once they’ve cooled, or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for extra sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side takes these treats completely over the top!

Side Dishes

These hand pies are wonderful on their own, but if you’re serving them as part of a dessert spread, they pair beautifully with fresh fruit, a spiced apple cider, or a mug of hot chocolate for those chilly evenings. They also shine alongside a holiday brunch or afternoon tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the box and serve your Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe picnic-style, wrapped in parchment and tied with twine for a rustic touch. Stack them on a cake stand for a festive dessert table or box them up as edible gifts — these pies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any pies left (they tend to disappear fast!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For slightly longer freshness, pop them in the fridge. The crust will stay flaky, and the filling keeps its creamy texture.

Freezing

This Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe is freezer-friendly, too! Once the pies have cooled completely, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to two months. To prevent sticking, separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that flaky texture intact!

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato puree instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned sweet potato puree works great in this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe. Just be sure to use plain puree, not the pre-sweetened or spiced pie filling, so you can control the flavor and sweetness.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potato filling up to two days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake your hand pies for ultimate convenience.

What if I don’t have a round cutter?

No worries at all! You can use a drinking glass with a sharp rim or even cut squares with a knife for a rustic look. The taste will be just as amazing.

Can I add marshmallows or nuts to the filling?

Definitely! Mini marshmallows or a sprinkle of toasted pecans inside each pie make for a wonderful twist, especially if you love the flavors of classic sweet potato casserole.

Are these hand pies good for holiday gifting?

They’re perfect for gifting! The Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe makes adorable, sturdy treats that travel well. Just wrap them up in wax paper or place in a festive tin, and watch faces light up!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy, festive, and guaranteed to bring smiles, this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe is a must-try. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat, with the kind of cozy flavors that instantly feel like home. Give them a go — I can’t wait for you to share these little pockets of happiness with your friends and family!

Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe

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4.5 from 6 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 10 hand pies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Sweet Potato Hand Pies are a delightful fall dessert featuring a spiced sweet potato filling encased in flaky pie crusts. Perfect for holiday treats or a fun snack, they’re easy to make and bake to golden perfection with a lightly sweetened egg wash topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dough

1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)

Topping

1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well blended.
Cut Pie Crusts: Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using a 4-inch round cutter, cut out circles from the dough. Re-roll scraps as needed to make approximately 10 rounds.
Assemble Pies: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the sweet potato filling onto the center of half the dough rounds. Top each filled round with another dough circle. Press edges together firmly with a fork to seal the pies completely and prevent filling from leaking.
Prepare for Baking: Place the sealed hand pies on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash for a shiny, golden appearance. Sprinkle with granulated sugar for extra sweetness and texture.
Vent and Bake: Cut a small slit in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

You can use leftover roasted sweet potatoes or canned sweet potato puree for convenience.
Add a few mini marshmallows inside the pies for a fun, sweet twist.
These hand pies work well as snacks, desserts, or festive holiday treats.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American