Introduction
If you’re looking to add a bit of spooky charm to your Halloween table, look no further than this Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies recipe. These delightful little pastries are filled with a tasty mixture of apple pie filling and spices, wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that’s carved with fun Jack-o’-Lantern faces. With a taste that’s as delightful as their appearance, these hand pies will easily become a family favorite, especially for the Halloween season.
What Are Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies?
Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies are mini pies, shaped and decorated to resemble classic carved pumpkins. Each hand pie offers a tasty, portable way to enjoy the flavors of a traditional apple pie, making them a hit for Halloween gatherings, fall picnics, or any seasonal celebration. These pies bring together the best of both worlds—delicious apple pie flavor with the whimsical charm of Halloween-themed food.
Table of Contents
Recipe Card for Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 8-10 hand pies | 8-10 hand pies |
Ingredients:
- 1 package of store-bought pie crust (or homemade pie crust if preferred)
- 1 cup apple pie filling, chopped into small pieces
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 egg, for egg wash
- 2 tbsp sugar for sprinkling
Directions for Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies Recipe
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the chopped apple pie filling with cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir until the spices are well distributed throughout the apples.
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter (around 4 inches) to cut out circles for each hand pie.
- Carve Jack-o’-Lantern Faces: Using a small knife, carefully cut out Jack-o’-Lantern faces on half of the dough circles. These will be the tops of the hand pies.
- Assemble the Hand Pies: Spoon a portion of the apple filling onto the plain dough circles, then lay the Jack-o’-Lantern face dough circles over the top. Press the edges with a fork to securely crimp and seal each hand pie.
- Bake: Brush each hand pie with the egg wash and sprinkle a little sugar on top. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Nutrition Facts for Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies (Per Serving)
- Calories: 170
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fun and Festive: These Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies add a Halloween twist to any meal or party with their adorable, carved faces.
- Easy to Make: Using store-bought pie crust simplifies the process, making it a perfect recipe even for beginners.
- Portable and Mess-Free: Great for parties and gatherings where you want to avoid the mess of traditional pie servings.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Pie Crust: Store-bought pie crust works well for convenience, but if you prefer, you can use homemade pie crust for a richer flavor.
- Apple Pie Filling: Feel free to use canned filling, or make your own by cooking fresh apples with a bit of sugar and spices. Alternatively, try cherry or berry fillings for a unique twist.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the warm, autumn flavors of the filling. For a different taste, add a pinch of clove or ginger.
How to Make Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies (Step-by-Step)
1.Mix the Filling:
Chop your apple pie filling into smaller pieces to make it easier to spoon onto the dough rounds. Mix in cinnamon and nutmeg for added warmth.
2.Roll and Cut Dough:
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Use a cookie cutter to make even circles for each hand pie.
3.Carve Faces:
For the tops, use a small, sharp knife to cut out playful Jack-o’-Lantern faces on half of the dough rounds.
4.Assemble:
Spoon apple filling onto the uncarved circles, then top each with a carved circle and press down the edges with a fork.
5.Bake to Golden Perfection:
Place the pies on a baking sheet, brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
Expert Tips for Success
- Control the Filling: Avoid overfilling the pies to prevent leakage. A heaping teaspoon of filling per pie is generally enough.
- Egg Wash for Shine: The egg wash gives the pies a beautiful golden color. You can skip it, but the result may be less visually appealing.
- Use a Small Knife for Faces: A paring knife or even a toothpick can help with the intricate face details on each pie.
Variations and Customizations
- Filling Swaps: Not a fan of apple? Try cherry, pumpkin, or chocolate filling for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a touch of clove or ginger to the filling for a more complex flavor.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg wash with a brush of non-dairy milk and use a vegan pie crust.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
To store Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through. You can also freeze unbaked hand pies and bake them fresh from the freezer; just add a few minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies warm from the oven, optionally with a side of caramel or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. They also make a delightful addition to Halloween party trays, where they’ll steal the spotlight with their festive faces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different filling for the Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cherry, pumpkin, or even a savory filling like cheese and herbs.
Q: Can I make the hand pies in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake right before serving.
Q: Can I use homemade pie crust?
A: Of course! A homemade pie crust will enhance the flavor and texture. Just ensure it’s rolled to the right thickness for hand pies.
You’ll Also Love
If you enjoy these Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies, check out these other fun recipes for your holiday table:
- Spooky Hand Pies: For another twist on Halloween treats.
- Berry Hand Pies: Filled with fresh berries for a summer flavor.
- Apple Hand Pies: Similar to this recipe but with a classic apple pie feel.
- Savory Meat Hand Pies: Perfect as an appetizer for fall gatherings.
These Jack-o’-Lantern Hand Pies offer a combination of seasonal flavors, festive fun, and easy assembly that’s ideal for cooks of all levels. Give them a try, and you’ll find they’re as enjoyable to make as they are to eat! Don’t forget to share your spooky creations with us on Instagram using #BeesRecipes – we can’t wait to see your unique designs!