Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are a festive treat perfect for Halloween gatherings! With their charming pumpkin shape and delicious fillings, they are sure to impress your guests. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a fun way to enjoy seasonal flavors. Whether you’re hosting a spooky soirée or just looking for a fun dessert, these hand pies will be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun Halloween Theme: These hand pies bring the spirit of Halloween to your table with their adorable jack-o-lantern designs.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out the fillings based on your preferences or what fruits are in season.
• Perfect for Parties: Serve them warm as a festive treat at any Halloween celebration or gathering.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of sweet apples and tart blackberries creates a delightful contrast that everyone will love.
• Great for All Ages: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these charming hand-held desserts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Stainless steel sauté pan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Pumpkin cookie cutter
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: This tool makes mixing the pie crust easy and ensures a consistent texture.
• Stainless Steel Sauté Pan: Perfect for evenly cooking the fillings and achieving that lovely golden color.
• Pumpkin Cookie Cutter: Essential for creating perfectly shaped hand pies that look festive and fun.

Ingredients

These cute little hand pies are the perfect little dessert for your Halloween party!

For the Pie Crust

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 sticks (8oz unsalted butter, diced and very cold)
• 6-9 tablespoons ice water
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1/4 cup raw or turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)

For the Apple Filling

• 2 large honey crisp apples (peeled and diced small)
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup brown sugar

For the Blackberry Filling

• 18 oz fresh blackberries
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix on low for 15 seconds.
2. Add the cold butter all at once and beat on low until it resembles coarse sand with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. Gradually add 6 tablespoons of ice water while mixing on low until it clumps around the paddle. If too dry, add more water one teaspoon at a time.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Tip the dough onto a lightly floured counter using a spatula.
2. Quickly knead it into a rough ball, then divide in half and shape each portion into balls.
3. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, flatten into discs, and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.

Step 3: Make the Apple Filling

1. Heat butter in a stainless steel sauté pan until just golden brown.
2. Add apples; cook for 2 minutes before adding vanilla bean paste, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
3. Toss to combine and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until syrupy. Cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Blackberry Filling

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F; line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roast blackberries for 30 minutes on prepared sheet.
3. Transfer blackberries to a pot with sugar and vanilla; simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until thickened. Cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

1. Remove dough from refrigerator; dust work surface with flour.
2. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thick using a rolling pin.
3. Cut out pumpkin shapes with cookie cutter; refrigerate cutouts for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble Hand Pies

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F; line baking sheet with parchment paper again.
2. Beat an egg in a small bowl; place uncut pumpkin pieces on tray.
3. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons filling in center of each piece; brush edges with egg wash.
4. Place cut-out pumpkin piece on top, sealing edges with a fork after lining up properly.
5. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle turbinado sugar if desired before baking for about 25 minutes until golden brown.

Now you can enjoy your delicious Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies! Perfectly festive for Halloween celebrations or any autumn gathering!

How to Serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Jack-O-Lantern hand pies are a delightful treat for any Halloween gathering. Their festive shape and sweet fillings make them perfect for serving alongside other themed goodies. Here are some fun ways to present these charming desserts.

With a Spooky Drink

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pair your hand pies with a warm pumpkin spice latte for a cozy fall vibe.
• Cider Spritzer: A refreshing apple cider spritzer adds a fizzy touch to your dessert table.

On a Festive Platter

• Mixed Treats Tray: Combine your Jack-O-Lantern hand pies with other Halloween-themed snacks, like ghost-shaped cookies and candy corn.
• Mini Pumpkin Display: Arrange the hand pies among mini pumpkins for an eye-catching centerpiece.

As Party Favors

• Individual Wrappings: Wrap each hand pie in parchment paper and tie with twine for an adorable take-home treat.
• Themed Boxes: Place the hand pies in small, decorated boxes as fun party favors for guests to enjoy later.

How to Perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Making perfect Jack-O-Lantern hand pies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your baking experience.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping butter and water very cold ensures a flaky crust.
• Roll Evenly: Aim for uniform thickness when rolling out the dough for consistent baking.
• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate the assembled pies before baking to help maintain their shape.
• Seal Edges Well: Pressing edges firmly with a fork prevents fillings from leaking during baking.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the color of the crust; bake until golden brown for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Serving side dishes alongside Jack-O-Lantern hand pies can create a well-rounded menu. Here are some tasty options that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes make a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the pies.
2. Creamy Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup enhances the autumn theme and balances out desserts beautifully.
3. Apple Salad: A crisp apple salad with nuts and cranberries provides a refreshing crunch that pairs well with sweet treats.
4. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: The rich flavors of caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a savory note that complements the sweet hand pies.
5. Cheese Platter: Include an assortment of cheeses for guests who enjoy pairing sweet and savory flavors together.
6. Fall Veggie Medley: A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition, making it a perfect side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your pies turn out perfect every time.

• Boldly overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make the crust tough. Mix just until combined and shape gently.
• Ignoring the chilling time: Skipping refrigeration can lead to a crust that shrinks during baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least an hour.
• Filling too generously: Overfilling can cause leaks and messes. Stick to 1 1/2 tablespoons of filling for each pie.
• Not sealing the edges properly: Failing to seal can result in bursting pies. Use a fork to press down firmly on the edges before baking.
• Neglecting egg wash: Omitting the egg wash will result in dull-looking pies. Brush them lightly before baking for a golden finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cool place to maintain freshness.

Freezing Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked hand pies on parchment paper for up to 3 months.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies that might help you along the way.

Can I use different fillings for Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Yes! You can experiment with various fruits or even chocolate chips as fillings. Just ensure they are not too watery.

What is the best way to cut out faces on my hand pies?

Using a sharp knife works well. Make sure to cut carefully so that the designs remain intact during baking.

How long do Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies last?

Properly stored, they can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize the spice level of my filling?

Absolutely! You can add more cinnamon or even nutmeg according to your taste preferences.

Are there any gluten-free options available for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, ensuring it includes xanthan gum if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are not only fun and festive but also versatile desserts perfect for any gathering. Feel free to customize your fillings with seasonal fruits or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating these adorable treats!