Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are a delightful and spooky treat for your Halloween gatherings! Filled with sweet apple and blackberry goodness, these hand pies not only look festive but are also easy to make. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a fun baking session at home, these treat-sized pies are sure to impress everyone. Get ready to enjoy a delicious dessert that captures the spirit of Halloween!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cute Presentation: These hand pies feature charming jack-o-lantern designs that add a festive flair to any gathering.
• Versatile Fillings: You can mix and match apple and blackberry fillings or even create your own unique combinations.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: Each pie is an individual serving, making them great for sharing at parties or spooky events.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of sweet apples and tart blackberries creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Stainless steel sauté pan
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter (4 pumpkin shape)
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: A stand mixer makes it easy to mix dough evenly without much effort.
• Stainless steel sauté pan: Ideal for browning butter and cooking fillings evenly without sticking.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking multiple hand pies at once.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

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Ingredients

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

For the 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
• 2 tablespoons fruit juice (to replace bourbon)
• 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: Make 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. Beat on low until it resembles coarse sand with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. With the mixer on low, add 6 tablespoons of ice water. Beat until the dough clumps around the paddle. If needed, add more ice water one teaspoon at a time.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Tip the dough onto a lightly floured counter using a spatula.
2. Knead briefly into a rough ball. Divide into two halves, shape each into a ball, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then flatten into discs.
3. Refrigerate for at least one hour or up to overnight.

Step 3: Prepare Apple Filling

1. Heat butter in a stainless steel sauté pan until golden brown.
2. Add diced apples; cook for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in fruit juice, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar; toss to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until syrupy; cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Blackberry Filling

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Spread blackberries on baking sheet; roast for 30 minutes.
3. Transfer roasted blackberries to a pot with sugar and vanilla; simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until thickened; cool.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

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

Step 6: Assemble Hand Pies

1. Preheat oven to 375°F; line another baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly beat an egg in a small bowl; set aside.
3. Place pumpkin cutouts without faces on tray; add about 1½ tablespoons of filling in center of each piece.
4. Brush edges around filling with egg wash, top each with a face cutout, press edges together using fork to seal in filling.
5. Brush tops with egg wash; sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
6. Bake for about 25 minutes until dark golden brown; cool on wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your spooky season treats!

How to Serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies make for a perfect Halloween treat. They are not just tasty but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering. Here are some charming serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

For a Festive Presentation

• Use a decorative platter: Arrange the hand pies on a spooky-themed platter to enhance the Halloween vibe.
• Garnish with fall leaves: Place some artificial or real autumn leaves around the pies for added color and theme.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Caramel sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the hand pies for a sweet contrast.
• Whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for extra indulgence.

Create a Mini Dessert Table

• Include various desserts: Alongside the hand pies, offer pumpkin spice cupcakes and ghost-shaped cookies.
• Use themed signage: Label each dessert on your table with Halloween-themed tags for an inviting touch.

How to Perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

To ensure your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are as delicious as they are cute, follow these tips for perfection.

• Chill your dough: Keeping your dough cold helps achieve a flaky crust. Refrigerate it well before rolling out.
• Use quality fillings: Opt for fresh apples and ripe blackberries to enhance flavor and texture in your pies.
• Seal edges well: Ensure you press down firmly on the edges when sealing to avoid any leaking during baking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth in your fillings.

Best Side Dishes for Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Complement your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies with these delightful side dishes that pair beautifully with their flavors.

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet and savory crunch that balances the sweetness of the hand pies.
2. Autumn Salad: A fresh salad featuring mixed greens, cranberries, and nuts adds a refreshing element to your dessert spread.
3. Pumpkin Soup: This warm soup offers comforting flavors that align perfectly with fall themes, enhancing the overall meal experience.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create a savory contrast to the sweet hand pies; include sharp cheddar and creamy brie.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned and roasted until crispy, these sprouts add depth and texture alongside the hand pies.
6. Apple Cider Sangria: A non-alcoholic version made with apple cider and fresh fruits provides a festive drink option that complements the dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

These hand pies are a fun treat for Halloween, but common mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are some tips to ensure your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies turn out perfectly.

• Ignoring the dough temperature: If the butter isn’t very cold, your crust won’t be flaky. Keep your ingredients cold and handle the dough as little as possible.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst open while baking. Stick to 1 1/2 tablespoons of filling for each pie to prevent this.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to tough crusts. Always chill your dough for at least one hour for the best texture.
• Cutting uneven pumpkin shapes: If your pie cutouts are uneven, they won’t bake evenly. Use a sharp cookie cutter and press down firmly for consistent shapes.
• Skipping egg wash: Without egg wash, your hand pies won’t have that beautiful golden finish. Be sure to brush them before baking for an appealing look.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds or until warm, but this may make them soft.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies that can help you make this recipe even better.

Can I customize the fillings in Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Yes! You can use any fruit or sweet filling you prefer. Consider using pears, peaches, or even chocolate!

How do I make a vegan version of Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Swap butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Use plant-based milk instead of egg wash.

What is the best way to cut jack-o-lantern faces?

Use a small knife or a sharp tool designed for cutting cookies to create fun and intricate designs without tearing the dough.

Can I make Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fillings a day in advance and assemble them right before baking.

What if my pie crust is too dry?

If your crust feels crumbly, add additional ice water one teaspoon at a time until it holds together properly without being sticky.

Final Thoughts

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are not only adorable but also versatile. Feel free to experiment with different fillings, making them perfect for any occasion beyond Halloween. Whether you’re hosting a spooky gathering or just looking for a delightful dessert, these hand pies will surely impress your guests!