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If you’re craving a cozy treat that bursts with warm spices and comforting pumpkin goodness, this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe is exactly what you need. These little pockets of buttery, flaky crust filled with luscious pumpkin pie filling are fried to golden perfection and rolled in cinnamon sugar for a sweet crunch on the outside. Whether you make them for a festive gathering, an indulgent snack, or a delightful dessert, they deliver irresistibly tender bites that feel like autumn wrapped up in each hand-held pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe comes from using simple ingredients that each play an important role. From the flaky crust that provides the perfect structure to the rich pumpkin pie filling that brings in that classic fall flavor, every component is essential for success.
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought): Delivers a tender, flaky exterior that’s crisp when fried.
- Pumpkin pie filling: Adds creamy sweetness and that iconic spiced pumpkin flavor.
- Canola or vegetable oil: Ideal for frying the hand pies to a perfect golden-brown.
- Granulated sugar: Gives a sweet contrast and helps the cinnamon sugar coating stick.
- Ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and depth to the sugar coating, enhancing the aroma and taste.
How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cut the Dough
Start by rolling out your pie crust to about an eighth of an inch thick on a lightly floured surface. Using a 4 to 5-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles that will become the base of each hand pie. If you use homemade dough, you’ll typically get around 26 to 28 circles, ready for filling.
Step 2: Fill and Seal the Pies
Spoon a heaping tablespoon of pumpkin pie filling onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over carefully to form a half-moon shape. To prevent any filling leaks during frying, moisten the edges with a bit of water and crimp them with a fork for a tight, decorative seal.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple blend will be your go-to for coating the hand pies after frying, adding a sparkle of sweetness and spice.
Step 4: Fry the Hand Pies
Heat 2 to 3 inches of oil in a medium pot until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Carefully place 2 or 3 hand pies into the hot oil at a time. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re a gorgeous golden brown. After frying, transfer the pies to a paper towel-lined rack to drain excess oil, and keep an eye on the oil temperature between batches to maintain the perfect frying heat.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
While still warm, gently dip each fried hand pie into your cinnamon sugar mixture so every bite is covered with a sweet, spiced crunch. These pies are wonderful served warm for that fresh-from-the-fryer feel or cooled down if you prefer to nibble them later.
How to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm and taste, consider dusting your Pumpkin Hand Pies with a bit of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey. A sprinkle of chopped pecans can add delightful texture contrast and nutty flavor that elevates the pie experience beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pairing these hand pies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a classic combination that’s hard to resist. For a cozy treat, serve alongside a warm cup of chai tea, cider, or a creamy latte to complement the spices in the pumpkin filling perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the pies on a rustic wooden board or a festive fall-themed platter to make them the star of your dessert table. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with twine makes for charming individual servings, perfect if you’re gifting or taking these pies to a potluck.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Pumpkin Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed prevents the crust from getting soggy and retains their fresh-fried crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the un-fried pies by arranging them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, fry them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To bring leftover pies back to life, warm them gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven or a toaster oven for about 10 minutes. This reheating method will help maintain that flaky texture and warm filling without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I bake these Pumpkin Hand Pies instead of frying?
Absolutely! While frying gives a wonderfully crispy crust, baking is a healthier option. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, though the texture will be different—less crunchy but still deliciously tender.
What type of pumpkin pie filling works best?
Both homemade and store-bought pumpkin pie fillings work well. Homemade filling lets you customize the spices and sweetness, though store-bought options save time and are totally convenient for this recipe.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Yes! A homemade pie crust adds a fresh flavor and flaky texture that’s hard to beat. Opt for a butter-based crust for the richest taste, or use store-bought crusts to save time without sacrificing much in flavor.
How can I make these pies ahead for a big event?
Prepare the pies up to the frying step, then freeze them on a sheet pan. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and fry from frozen right before your event. This way, you have fresh, hot hand pies ready to impress your guests.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pies?
Reheating in the oven or toaster oven at a moderate temperature keeps the crust crisp and warm without sogginess. Microwave reheating is quicker but can make the crust soft, so it’s best avoided if you want to maintain that fried texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a new favorite to your recipe collection, this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe is a must-try. Each bite brings the wonderful comfort of fall flavors wrapped in a crisp, cinnamon-sugar coating that truly delights. Whether you’re making a batch for yourself or to share, these hand pies are sure to become a beloved treat you’ll reach for every season.
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