As the leaves change and the air becomes crisp, excitement for Halloween begins to build, along with the anticipation for treats that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Introducing Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies—a whimsical and delicious homage to the season’s festivities.
These hand pies blend the warm flavors of autumn with the spirit of Halloween, making them an ideal treat for parties, family get-togethers, or cozy nights at home.
The joy of making these pies, adorned with their cheerful, spooky faces, adds an extra layer of fun to your Halloween preparations, transforming baking into a delightful event for everyone to enjoy.
The Magic of Seasonal Baking
Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies capture the essence of fall with their rich pumpkin filling and a fragrant mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Baking these pies has become as much a part of Halloween tradition as pumpkin carving or decorating the home.
Each pie crust is meticulously cut and shaped into little edible lanterns that are sure to spark the imagination of both children and adults. Not only are these pies a joy to prepare, but they also fill the kitchen with the inviting aromas of autumn spices. Let’s dive in and create these delightful treats that are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Jack-O’-Lantern Spiced Hand Pies Recipe
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 hand pies
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets of refrigerated puff pastry (for extra flakiness)
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (for a richer, natural sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice (adds depth to the spices)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 beaten egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream (for a glossier crust)
- Dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries (for facial features)
Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- 4-inch round cookie cutter (or use a glass)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife or small paring knife
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the puff pastry sheets slightly to even the thickness. Use a 4-inch cookie cutter to cut out circles.
- Assemble the Pies: Place half of the circles onto the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of pumpkin filling onto the center of each, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Create the Faces: Using a small paring knife, carefully cut out Jack-O’-Lantern faces on the remaining pastry circles. Get creative with different expressions!
- Seal & Decorate: Place the cut-out dough over the filled bases, pressing the edges with a fork to seal. Mix the beaten egg with heavy cream and brush over the tops for a beautiful golden color.
- Add Features: Press chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the eye and mouth openings for extra character.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Cool & Serve: Let the pies cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These Jack-O’-Lantern Spiced Hand Pies are the perfect festive treat for fall! They combine a crispy, flaky pastry with a warmly spiced pumpkin filling, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Plus, they’re fun to make and even more fun to decorate—perfect for family baking nights or Halloween parties!
Pro Tips:
- Upgrade the Flavor: Add a pinch of sea salt to the filling to enhance the sweetness and spice balance.
- Extra Crispy Edges: If you love extra crunch, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on the egg-washed pies before baking.
- Alternative Fillings: Try swapping the pumpkin filling with spiced apple compote for a delicious variation!
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pies in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for a stress-free experience.
Enjoy these adorable and delicious Jack-O’-Lantern hand pies at your next fall gathering!
