Delicious Pumpkin Hand Pies with Sweet Maple Glaze

Jump to Recipe

Pumpkin Hand Pies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. These flaky pastries are filled with a creamy pumpkin mixture and topped with a sweet maple glaze, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion. The combination of buttery crust and spiced pumpkin filling creates a comforting and delicious experience, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Pumpkin Hand Pies!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Hand Pies

These pumpkin pastries are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why they’ll become a favorite:

Perfect for fall celebrations, especially pumpkin hand pies for Thanksgiving.
Easy to customize with various fillings, from savory to sweet.
Can be made ahead of time and frozen for quick desserts.
Delightfully flaky and tender crust with a rich pumpkin filling.
Ideal for serving at parties or as a comforting snack.
Simple enough for beginners, making it an easy pumpkin hand pies recipe.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Hand Pies

Gather these items:

1 batch All-Butter Pie Dough (homemade or store-bought)
1 large egg (for egg wash)
1 Tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
1 and 1/4 cups (282g) pumpkin puree (preferably canned)
1 large egg (for filling)
6 Tablespoons (72g) packed light or dark brown sugar
1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
3 Tablespoons (45ml) pure maple syrup
1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk
1/2 teaspoon maple extract (or vanilla extract)
Pinch of salt

How to Make Pumpkin Hand Pies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare your pie dough by following your preferred recipe through step 5. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to 5 days).
Step 2: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to 1/8–1/4-inch thickness. If the dough sticks, sprinkle more flour. Use a 5-inch bowl or template to cut circles. Repeat with the second disc and refrigerate all circles for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg, brown sugar, flour, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Step 5: Spoon 1.5–2 Tablespoons of filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold over the dough, sealing the edges by pressing and crimping with a fork. Brush with egg wash, and cut 2–3 vent slits on top. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before baking.
Step 6: Place pies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown, rotating the sheets halfway through. Cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheets before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 7: In a bowl, whisk the confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup, milk, maple extract, and salt. Once the pies are cool enough, dip the tops into the icing or drizzle it over the pies. Allow the icing to set for about 1 hour.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Hand Pies

Keep these in mind:

Always chill your pie dough before rolling; it helps in achieving a flaky crust.
Use a food processor for quick and even dough mixing.
Try adding some cinnamon to the filling for a unique twist; pumpkin hand pies with cinnamon are a delightful variation.
Brush the top of the pies with egg wash for a golden color.
These hand pies can be made vegan by substituting the egg with plant-based alternatives.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Hand Pies

These pumpkin-filled hand pies are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions:

Pair them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Serve them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.
Enjoy them as a breakfast item alongside your morning coffee.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Hand Pies

To store your homemade pumpkin hand pies, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them before baking. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Hand Pies

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Hand Pies?

The secret lies in the dough; ensure it’s cold when rolling out. This helps create the desired flakiness. Using quality pumpkin puree also elevates the flavor of your delicious pumpkin hand pies dessert.

Can I make Pumpkin Hand Pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pies in advance and freeze them before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed for a fresh taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Hand Pies?

Avoid overfilling your pies to prevent leaks. Ensure you seal the edges well, and always chill your filled pies before baking for the best texture.

Variations of Pumpkin Hand Pies You Can Try

There are countless variations to try with your pumpkin hand pies:

Make vegan pumpkin hand pies by replacing eggs with flaxseed meal.
Add a layer of cream cheese for a rich, creamy filling in your pies.
Experiment with savory versions by incorporating herbs and cheeses for savory pumpkin hand pies.
Try different spices such as nutmeg or ginger to give your pies a unique flavor.

Delicious Pumpkin Hand Pies with Sweet Maple Glaze - Pumpkin Hand Pies - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Pumpkin Patch Cookies or Pumpkin Cheesecake Overnight Oats. If you’re looking for a savory option, try Chestnut Pumpkin Mushroom Tarts for a delightful twist!