Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are a whimsical treat that will enchant your Halloween festivities! Perfect for parties, gatherings, or cozy nights in, these adorable pastries not only look festive but also boast a delicious blend of sweet apple and juicy blackberry fillings. With their friendly faces and flaky crusts, they are sure to be the highlight of any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and Festive: These hand pies add a playful touch to your Halloween celebrations with their cute jack-o-lantern designs.
• Delicious Flavor: Combining the sweetness of honey crisp apples and fresh blackberries ensures a mouthwatering flavor in every bite.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Perfectly Portable: Ideal for parties or picnics, these hand pies are easy to transport and serve without any fuss.
• Customizable Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or spices to create your own unique twist on this classic treat.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Stainless steel sauté pan
• Rolling pin
• Pumpkin cookie cutter
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the pie dough effortless, ensuring a consistent texture.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps achieve an even thickness for the dough, crucial for perfect hand pies.
• Pumpkin cookie cutter: Using a pumpkin-shaped cutter adds fun shapes for your pies, enhancing their festive appeal.

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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 (as a substitute for 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: 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. Beat on low until the mixture resembles coarse sand with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. With the mixer on low, add 6 tablespoons of ice water. Beat on low for 2 to 3 minutes until it clumps around the paddle or sides of the bowl. If too dry, add more water one teaspoon at a time.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

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

Step 3: Make the Apple Filling

1. Heat butter in a stainless steel sauté pan over medium heat until golden brown.
2. Add diced apples; cook for 2 minutes.
3. Pour in fruit juice; cook another minute then add vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Toss well.
4. Cook 5-7 minutes until syrupy; cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Blackberry Filling

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place blackberries on baking sheet; roast for 30 minutes.
3. Transfer blackberries to pot with granulated sugar and vanilla; simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until thickened. Cool to room temperature.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

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

Step 6: Assemble Hand Pies

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line another baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Lightly beat an egg in a small bowl.
3. On uncut pumpkin shapes, place about 1½ tablespoons of filling in center; brush edges with egg wash.
4. Position cutout face shapes on top; press edges together using a fork to seal in filling.
5. Brush tops with egg wash; sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake hand pies for about 25 minutes or until dark golden brown.
2. Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy these festive Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies as part of your Halloween celebrations!

How to Serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Serving Jack-O-Lantern hand pies can be as fun and festive as making them! These adorable treats are sure to delight guests at any Halloween gathering. Here are some creative ideas for serving these delightful desserts.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, fluffy contrast to the pie’s rich fillings.

Serve with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream complements the warm, fruity flavors of the hand pies, creating a delicious dessert combo.

Accompany with Hot Apple Cider

• The spiced flavors of hot apple cider enhance the fall theme and provide a cozy drink option alongside your hand pies.

Garnish with Fresh Mint

• Adding a sprig of fresh mint not only looks appealing but also offers a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness of the pies.

Present on a Festive Platter

• Arrange the hand pies on a decorative platter, complete with Halloween-themed decorations like mini pumpkins or spiderwebs for an eye-catching display.

Create Mini Dessert Plates

• Serve each hand pie with a small slice of cheese or a few nuts on the side. This adds variety and texture for your guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Perfecting your Jack-O-Lantern hand pies takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Chill Your Butter: Ensure your butter is very cold before mixing it into the dough for a flakier crust.

• Use Cold Water: Always use ice water when making your dough; this keeps it from becoming too warm and helps maintain its structure.

• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the hand pies; too much filling can cause them to burst during baking.

• Seal Edges Well: Press edges firmly with a fork to ensure they stay sealed while baking, preventing leaks.

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pies while baking; ovens vary and you might need more or less time for perfect golden-brown pastries.

• Let Cool Before Serving: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly after baking so that the filling sets up nicely, making them easier to handle.

Best Side Dishes for Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

To elevate your dessert experience, consider pairing these delightful hand pies with complementary side dishes. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted with cinnamon offer a warm, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit-filled pastries.

2. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts
   The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of the hand pies when caramelized until crispy.

3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   Rich and velvety mashed potatoes create a comforting side that contrasts nicely with the flaky crust of the hand pies.

4. Spiced Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup enhances fall flavors and provides a savory counterpoint to sweet desserts.

5. Fresh Apple Salad
   Crisp apples tossed in a light vinaigrette add freshness and crunch, which complements the softness of the hand pies.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, such as brie or aged cheddar, provides richness that balances out sweet flavors in dessert offerings.

7. Roasted Root Vegetables
   Seasonal root vegetables roasted in herbs can bring earthy tones that harmonize well with sweeter dishes like hand pies.

8. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs makes for an easy-to-prepare side that adds texture and flavor without overwhelming sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies can be a fun experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to a tough crust. Always chill your dough for at least an hour to ensure a flaky texture.
• Overfilling the pies: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst open while baking. Stick to 1.5 tablespoons of filling per pie for the best results.
• Ignoring egg wash: Omitting the egg wash results in dull-looking hand pies. Brush the tops with egg for a golden, shiny finish.
• Cutting faces too deep: Making cuts too deep on the pumpkin cutouts can weaken the structure. Use a sharp knife and make shallow cuts to maintain integrity.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing your hand pies inside.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked hand pies for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags.

Reheating Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies.

Can I use different fruits for filling?

Absolutely! You can customize your fillings with various fruits like pears or peaches, depending on your taste preferences.

How do I prevent my hand pies from leaking?

Ensure that you seal the edges well with a fork and avoid overfilling them. Properly cutting out faces also helps prevent leaks.

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

These hand pies are delightful warm or at room temperature. Serve them at Halloween parties or festive gatherings for a treat!

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and fillings in advance. Assemble and bake them just before serving for optimal freshness!

Final Thoughts

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are a charming addition to any Halloween celebration! Their versatility allows you to experiment with different fillings and decorations, making them perfect for customizing according to your guests’ preferences. Try making these delicious treats today!