If you’re craving a treat that brings all the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a perfectly crispy, golden crust, then this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe is going to be your new go-to delight. Imagine the warm, spiced pumpkin filling nestled inside a tender, flaky dough, fried to crispy perfection and coated with cinnamon sugar for an irresistible finish. These handheld wonders not only taste amazing but are also super fun to make, and they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends at any gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe requires just a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tender pie crust to the sweet, pumpkin-spiced filling and the crispy cinnamon sugar coating, every element is essential for creating that perfect bite.
- Pie crust: Choose either a homemade batch for that extra love or store-bought for convenience; the crust forms the flaky, golden shell for your pies.
- Pumpkin pie filling: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought version packed with rich spices to bring authentic autumn flavors to every hand pie.
- Canola or vegetable oil: Ideal for frying, this neutral oil ensures a crispy finish without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the coating to balance the spices and adds sparkle to the final look.
- Ground cinnamon: This classic warming spice enhances the pumpkin filling and creates a delightful cinnamon sugar crust.
How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Crusts
Start by rolling out your pie crust to about ⅛-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a 4 to 5-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles. With a homemade batch, you’ll get around 26 to 28 rounds, slightly fewer if using store-bought crusts. These rounds are your canvas for the scrumptious filling.
Step 2: Fill and Shape
Place a heaping tablespoon of pumpkin pie filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then moisten the edges with a little water and press down with a fork to seal the pies securely. This step is key to keeping all that delicious filling inside during frying.
Step 3: Make Cinnamon Sugar
While the pies wait, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This cinnamon sugar blend will be the perfect sweet, spicy coating that makes these hand pies extra special once fried.
Step 4: Fry Hand Pies
Heat 2 to 3 inches of canola or vegetable oil in a medium pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add 2 or 3 pies at a time and fry them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they become a beautiful golden brown. Once fried, transfer them to a paper towel-lined rack to drain any excess oil, keeping the temperature steady to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
While the hand pies are still warm, dip each one into the cinnamon sugar mix to coat thoroughly. This step adds that addictive crunch and a dusting of spicy sweetness. Serve them fresh and warm, or let them cool for a handheld autumn treat anyone will love.
How to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
For a charming finishing touch, consider sprinkling a little extra cinnamon sugar on top right before serving, or dust with powdered sugar for a delicate snowy effect. Fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs superbly with these hand pies to amp up the indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pumpkin Hand Pies make a perfect companion to warm drinks like chai tea, spiced lattes, or hot apple cider. For a fuller autumn dessert spread, pair them alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced yogurt to balance the crispy texture with creamy coolness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these pies on a rustic wooden board or a festive autumn-themed platter scattered with cinnamon sticks and mini pumpkins. You can even wrap individual pies in parchment paper and tie them with twine for a charming, grab-and-go presentation that’s ideal for parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their crisp texture. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is best but expect the crust to soften slightly.
Freezing
You can freeze these hand pies before frying by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. When ready, fry straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to cooking time. This method saves time and still delivers delicious results.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the leftover hand pies in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisped up again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the flaky, crunchy crust that makes this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I bake these hand pies instead of frying?
Absolutely! While frying gives you that signature crispy crust, baking the pies at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden can be a lighter alternative and just as tasty.
What can I use if I don’t have a round cookie cutter?
A small bowl or a glass with a 4-5 inch diameter works perfectly as a substitute to cut out uniform rounds from your dough.
Is it necessary to moisten the edges with water?
Yes, moistening the edges with water before sealing helps the dough stick together better, preventing leaks and keeping the filling securely inside while frying.
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie filling?
While canned pumpkin is a great ingredient, you’d need to mix it with sugar and spices to replicate pumpkin pie filling’s sweet, spiced flavor essential to this recipe.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
The oil should reach 375°F, which you can check with a candy or deep-fry thermometer. If you don’t have one, test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle immediately and rise to the surface.
Final Thoughts
If you love cozy, comforting desserts with a hint of nostalgic fall magic, this Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe should definitely be on your must-make list. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of flaky crust, pumpkin spice, and sweet crispiness that feels like a warm hug. Give it a try, and I promise these pies will become a cherished favorite you’ll reach for again and again.
Print
Pumpkin Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 26 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pumpkin Hand Pies are delightful, flaky pastries filled with spiced pumpkin pie filling and coated in cinnamon sugar. Crispy and golden-fried to perfection, they’re a perfect fall treat that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 batch homemade pie crust recipe or 2 boxes store-bought pie crusts
Filling
- 2 cups pumpkin pie filling (homemade or store-bought)
Frying
- Canola or vegetable oil, for frying (enough to fill 2-3 inches in pot)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Crusts: Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface until they are â…›-inch thick. Use a 4-5 inch round cookie cutter to cut out about 26-28 circles if using homemade crust, or fewer if using store-bought.
- Fill and Shape: Place 1 heaping tablespoon of pumpkin pie filling in the center of each crust circle. Fold dough over to form a half-moon, moisten the edges with water, and seal by crimping with a fork.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix ¾ cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Fry Hand Pies: Heat 2-3 inches of canola or vegetable oil in a medium pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add 2-3 hand pies at a time to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined cooling rack. Maintain oil temperature for consistent frying.
- Coat and Serve: While still warm, dip each fried hand pie into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly. Serve warm or allow to cool for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure oil temperature stays consistent around 375°F to avoid greasy or undercooked pies.
- You can use homemade or store-bought pumpkin pie filling depending on preference.
- For easier sealing, chill the pies briefly before frying.
- Use a slotted spoon or spider to safely remove pies from hot oil.
- Store leftover pies in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
