Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are a fun and festive dessert perfect for any Halloween gathering. Not only do they look adorable, but they also pack a delightful mix of flavors with apple and blackberry fillings. These hand pies are easy to make and can be enjoyed by all, making them a fantastic addition to your holiday festivities!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cute Presentation: These hand pies resemble little jack-o-lanterns, adding an eye-catching element to your Halloween table.
• Delicious Fillings: The combination of honey crisp apples and roasted blackberries creates a sweet and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these treats without any fuss, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them warm or at room temperature as a sweet snack or as part of a dessert spread at your Halloween party.
• Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared in advance, allowing you to save time on the day of your celebration.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the fun of creating your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter (4 pumpkin shape)
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool simplifies mixing the dough, ensuring it’s perfectly combined without overworking it.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps achieve an even thickness for the dough, which is essential for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

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

• 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)
• 2 large honey crisp apples (peeled and diced small)
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons fruit juice (as substitute for bourbon)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 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 the mixture resembles coarse sand with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. With the mixer on low, add 6 tablespoons from the ice water mixture. Beat on low for 2 to 3 minutes until dough clumps around the paddle or sides of the bowl.
4. If too dry, add more liquid from the ice water mixture one teaspoon at a time.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Tip the dough out onto a lightly floured counter using a spatula.
2. Knead quickly into a rough ball, then divide in half and shape each half into another rough ball.
3. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and flatten it into small discs. Refrigerate for at least one hour or up to overnight.

Step 3: Make Apple Filling

1. Heat salted butter in a stainless steel sauté pan until just barely golden brown.
2. Add diced honey crisp apples and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add fruit juice along with vanilla bean paste, cinnamon, and brown sugar; toss to combine.
4. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until liquid reduces to a syrupy consistency; let cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Blackberry Filling

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place blackberries on baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
3. Transfer blackberries to a stainless steel pot with granulated sugar and vanilla extract; simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until thickened.
4. Cool this filling to room temperature before using.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

1. Remove pie dough from refrigerator; lightly dust work surface with flour.
2. Roll dough out to about 1/8 inch thick using a rolling pin.
3. Use a pumpkin cookie cutter to cut out as many shapes as possible; place these on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble Hand Pies

1. Preheat oven again to 375 degrees F; line another baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly beat an egg in a small bowl; set aside for brushing later.
3. Take pumpkin cutouts without faces; place about 1½ tablespoons of either filling in their centers.
4. Brush edges around filling with beaten egg; top each with another cutout that has a face cut out.
5. Use a fork to press edges together firmly sealing in filling; brush tops with egg wash sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
6. Repeat with remaining hand pies; bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes until dark golden brown.

Enjoy these delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies at your next gathering!

How to Serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your Halloween dessert experience.

Individual Treats

• Serve each hand pie on a small plate with a festive napkin for an inviting presentation at your Halloween gathering.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange several hand pies on a large platter, garnished with seasonal fruits like grapes or orange slices, for a colorful and enticing display.

Accompanied by Dips

• Pair with caramel sauce or whipped cream on the side for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor that complements the sweetness of the pies.

Halloween-Themed Table Settings

• Use themed decorations, such as miniature pumpkins and spiderwebs, to create an eerie atmosphere that matches the spooky vibe of the hand pies.

How to Perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Creating perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out delicious every time.

• Chill Your Dough: Ensure your dough is cold before rolling it out. This helps keep the butter solid, resulting in flaky crusts.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh apples and berries. They enhance flavor and texture, making your filling vibrant and tasty.

• Balance Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels in your filling according to personal preference. Too much sugar can overpower the natural fruit flavors.

• Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges of your hand pies tightly using a fork. This prevents any filling from leaking during baking.

• Egg Wash for Shine: Applying an egg wash before baking gives your pies a beautiful golden color and an appetizing shine.

Best Side Dishes for Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Complementing your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies with tasty side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Crisp Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds balance to the sweet hand pies.

2. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup provides comforting flavors that align perfectly with the festive season.

3. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, squash, and Brussels sprouts bring earthy flavors and color to your table.

4. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses with crackers or bread for a savory contrast that pairs well with the sweetness of the pies.

5. Fruit Skewers: Create vibrant fruit skewers using seasonal fruits like pears, apples, and grapes for a refreshing side option.

6. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts offers crunchy texture and warm flavors that complement the hand pies beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold dough preparation: Skipping the chilling time can lead to a tough crust. Always refrigerate the dough for at least one hour for the best texture.
• Bold filling overfilling: Overfilling your pies may cause them to burst during baking. Stick to 1.5 tablespoons of filling for perfectly sealed hand pies.
• Bold incorrect temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to 375°F for optimal results.
• Bold cutting shapes too thick: If your dough is rolled out too thick, the pies will not cook evenly. Aim for 1/8 inch thickness for a crisp crust.
• Bold sealing edges poorly: Not sealing the edges well enough can lead to leaks while baking. Use a fork to press and seal thoroughly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Place cooled hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags; they should last up to 3 months.

Reheating Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds per pie, but this may result in a softer crust.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are festive, pumpkin-shaped pastries filled with delicious apple and blackberry fillings. They’re perfect for Halloween!

How do I customize my Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Feel free to experiment with different fillings like pumpkin puree or mixed berries. You can also add spices like nutmeg or cloves for extra flavor.

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and fillings in advance, store them separately in the refrigerator, and assemble them just before baking.

What is the best way to serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Serve these delightful hand pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra treat!

Are there any alternatives for the butter in this recipe?

You can substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil if you’re looking for dairy-free options.

Final Thoughts

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies make a delightful addition to your Halloween festivities. Their cute pumpkin shape is sure to impress guests, while their sweet apple and tart blackberry filling offers a perfect balance of flavors. Feel free to customize your fillings and shapes based on personal preferences, making each batch unique!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit of Halloween with these delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies! Perfectly shaped like little pumpkins, these charming pastries are filled with a scrumptious combination of tender honey crisp apples and sweet roasted blackberries. Easy to make and oh-so-adorable, these hand pies are guaranteed to impress your guests at any Halloween gathering. Whether served warm or at room temperature, they deliver a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that everyone will love. Get ready to create magical moments this spooky season with these cute treats that can be prepared ahead of time!

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Ingredients

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• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 8 oz unsalted butter (very cold)
• 6–9 tablespoons ice water
• 2 large honey crisp apples (peeled and diced)
• 18 oz fresh blackberries
• 3 tablespoons salted butter (for filling)
• 2 tablespoons fruit juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. In a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
2. Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Chill for at least an hour.
3. Cook diced apples in browned salted butter with fruit juice, cinnamon, and brown sugar until syrupy; cool.
4. Roast blackberries and simmer with sugar and vanilla extract until thickened; cool.
5. Roll out chilled dough to 1/8 inch thick, cut into pumpkin shapes, and fill with cooled fruit mixtures.
6. Seal edges using a fork and bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes until golden.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg