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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, there’s a delightful crispness in the air that beckons the kitchen to become a haven of warmth and comfort. Inspired by the season, these Irresistible Pumpkin Hand Pies bring the essence of autumn right to your fingertips. Imagine breaking into a golden, flaky crust to unveil a rich pumpkin filling enriched with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—each bite capturing the cozy spirit of fall.

When I whipped up a batch of these hand pies recently, the aroma danced through my home, instantly lifting my spirits and evoking memories of joyful family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply want a sweet treat to enjoy after a long day, these hand pies are the perfect solution. With their delightful balance of sweetness and spice, they promise to satisfy cravings and warm hearts—one little pastry at a time. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that makes homemade magic effortless!

Why Are Pumpkin Hand Pies Perfect for Fall?

Irresistible flavors: The warm blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a nostalgic aroma that fills your home with cozy vibes.
Effortless preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a batch in no time.
Versatile delights: Perfect for dessert, brunch, or even as a snack, these pies cater to any occasion.
Crowd-pleasing treat: Impress your friends and family with these adorable hand pies at gatherings, and watch them disappear!
Seasonal favorite: Capture the essence of autumn with this delightful pastry that celebrates the flavors of the season.

Pumpkin Hand Pie Ingredients

• Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delightful pumpkin hand pies!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the essential structure for a flaky crust. Substitution Note: You can use whole wheat flour for a heartier option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the pastry dough and aids in achieving a beautiful golden hue during baking.
Salt – Enhances the flavor, balancing the richness of the butter in the dough.
Unsalted Butter (cold and cubed) – Key to achieving a wonderfully flaky crust, creating lovely pockets of steam while baking.
Ice-Cold Water – Helps bring the dough together without warming the butter, preserving flakiness.

For the Filling

Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient, adding creaminess and natural sweetness to the filling. Substitution Note: Sweet potato puree works beautifully if you want a twist on flavor.
Brown Sugar – Deepens the flavor of the filling with its rich molasses notes.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth with a sweet-spicy aroma throughout the delicious filling.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds a nutty and slightly sweet undertone, perfectly complementing the pumpkin.
Ground Ginger – Provides a gentle zing that balances the sweetness among the spices.
Ground Cloves – Offers a bold, aromatic flavor that completes the spice profile of the filling.

For the Finish

Egg (beaten) – Used for egg wash, giving the pies a shiny, golden finish.
Coarse Sugar – Sprinkled on top for added crunch and an attractive sparkle that enhances their appearance.

Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying these scrumptious pumpkin hand pies that perfectly embody the spirit of fall!

How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies

Whisk Together: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, creating a flaky texture.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour in the ice-cold water, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Form a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.
Preheat Oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Filling: In a separate small bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Stir until smooth and evenly incorporated, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll out your chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Using a circular cutter or a glass, cut out 4-inch circles from the dough.
Add Filling: Place 1 tablespoon of the pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the circles over to create a half-moon shape, and seal the edges with a fork to keep those yummy flavors inside.
Brush and Score: Brush the tops of the hand pies with the beaten egg for a beautiful shine. Sprinkle with coarse sugar and use a sharp knife to score two small slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
Bake: Bake the hand pies for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the filling begins to bubble at the slits. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Cool and Serve: Once baked, cool the pies on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy these fall treasures fresh out of the oven!

Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Store cooled pumpkin hand pies at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Cover them loosely with a kitchen towel to prevent drying out.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the hand pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy anytime!
Freezer: You can freeze pumpkin hand pies for up to one month. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To retain the crispiness of the crust, reheat the pies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring a delightful texture when served.

Pumpkin Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to personalize your pumpkin hand pies and make them your own with these creative ideas!

Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a different, yet delicious flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a subtle heat that perfectly complements the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the pumpkin filling for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Finish: Instead of coarse sugar, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top before baking for a sweet, spiced crust.
Apple Pie Fusion: Combine equal parts of pumpkin and finely chopped apples in the filling for a refreshing twist on this classic treat.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the hand pies for a decadent dessert upgrade that chocolate lovers will adore.
Maple Glaze: Create a simple maple syrup glaze to brush over the pies after baking for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Hand Pies?

As you enjoy these scrumptious pumpkin hand pies, consider pairing them with delightful accompaniments to elevate the experience.

Spiced Latte: This warm beverage, flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg, perfectly complements the autumn-inspired flavors of the pies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast and lovely creaminess alongside the warm hand pies.
Caramel Drizzle: A touch of rich caramel sauce drizzled over your hand pies adds a sweet richness that tantalizes every bite.
Chai Tea: The fragrant spices of chai tea harmonize beautifully with the warm pumpkin filling, creating a cozy pairing.
Fresh Berries: Bright, fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries provide a tart contrast, enhancing the sweetness of the pumpkin.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusted Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of whipped cream dusted with cinnamon sugar beside the pies for an extra indulgent treat.
Maple Syrup Dip: A small dish of maple syrup invites a sweet dip that pairs beautifully with the spiced goodness of the pies.
Cheese Board: Add a few slices of sharp cheddar to a cheese board for a savory balance that plays off the sweet hand pies perfectly.
Hot Apple Cider: The warm, spiced notes of hot apple cider echo the flavors found in both the hand pies and the autumn season.
Ginger Cookies: Crisp ginger cookies create a delightful sweet and spicy contrast, making for a fun dessert duo.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor fall flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the pie dough and filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply make the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate (this helps maintain its flakiness). For the filling, mix all ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, fill, and seal your hand pies. Remember to brush them with the egg wash before baking for that golden finish. Enjoy the convenience of homemade goodness that’s just as delicious whenever you’re ready to indulge!

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Hand Pies

Cold Butter:

Ensure your butter is cold and cubed to create those perfect flaky layers in your crust, avoiding a tough texture.

Proper Sealing:

Take extra care to seal the edges well with a fork; this prevents filling leakage while baking and keeps your pumpkin hand pies intact.

Rolling Technique:

Roll your dough evenly to about 1/8 inch thick. A consistent thickness ensures even baking and a delightful texture throughout.

Scoring Slits:

Don’t forget to score the tops before baking! This allows steam to escape and prevents your pies from bursting.

Taste Test:

Sample your pumpkin filling before sealing to ensure the flavor is just right; adjust spices if necessary for your palate!

Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience or make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin. Just ensure that it’s pure pumpkin and not pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

How can I tell if my hand pies are baked properly?
Very good question! You’re looking for a golden brown crust, and the filling should be bubbling slightly at the slits you scored on top. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil while baking.

How do I store leftover pumpkin hand pies?
For sure! Store cooled pumpkin hand pies at room temperature for up to 24 hours, covering them loosely to avoid drying. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing!

Can I freeze pumpkin hand pies, and if so, how?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, let the hand pies cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, which helps keep the crust crispy.

Can my pets eat pumpkin hand pies?
No, it’s best to avoid giving any hand pies to pets due to the sugar and spices. However, plain pumpkin (not mixed with sugar or spices) is safe and healthy for dogs in moderation. Always consult with your vet before introducing new foods to their diet.

What should I do if my crust is tough?
Oh, no worries! A tough crust often comes from overworking the dough or using warm butter. Make sure to keep your ingredients cold, mix just until combined, and avoid over-kneading. For future batches, look for a texture that’s crumbly and slightly sticky before you chill it. This will yield that lovely flaky crust we all love!