Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are adorable little desserts that will steal the show at your Halloween party! Not only do they look festive, but they also pack a delicious punch with sweet apple and blackberry fillings. Perfect for trick-or-treaters or as a delightful treat for your guests, these hand pies are sure to impress. Their unique pumpkin shape adds a fun twist to traditional desserts, making them a standout feature on any Halloween table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun Presentation: The cute pumpkin shapes and jack-o-lantern faces make these pies an eye-catching addition to your Halloween festivities.
• Delicious Flavor: With a mix of spiced apples and sweet blackberries, each bite bursts with seasonal flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Filling Options: Whether you prefer apple or blackberry, you can customize these hand pies to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.
• Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, these hand pies are straightforward to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: Each recipe yields 12 hand pies, making it easy to share with family and friends during the spooky season.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and ensure you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Pumpkin cookie cutter (4-inch)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the dough easier and ensures even consistency for the crust.
• Rolling pin: A must-have for rolling out the pie dough to the perfect thickness.
• Pumpkin cookie cutter: Essential for creating those adorable pumpkin shapes that give this dessert its charm.

Ingredients

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

• 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)
• 2 large honey crisp apples (peeled and diced small)
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 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

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Mix on low for about 15 seconds. Add cold butter all at once and beat on low until it resembles coarse sand with pea-sized butter pieces. Gradually add 6 tablespoons of ice water while mixing on low. Beat until clumps form around the paddle or bowl sides. If too dry, add more water one teaspoon at a time.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Tip the dough onto a floured surface using a spatula. Quickly knead it into a rough ball. Divide it in half and shape each into a ball. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and flatten into discs. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.

Step 3: Prepare Apple Filling

Heat salted butter in a sauté pan until golden brown. Add diced apples and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in bourbon and cook for another minute. Stir in vanilla bean paste, cinnamon, and brown sugar; toss well. Cook until liquid reduces to syrupy consistency (5–7 minutes). Let cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Roast Blackberries

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheet with parchment paper; place blackberries on it. Roast for about 30 minutes. Transfer roasted blackberries to a pot with granulated sugar and vanilla extract; simmer over medium heat until thickened (about 10 minutes). Cool before using.

Step 5: Roll Out Pie Dough

Remove dough from refrigerator. Lightly dust work surface with flour; roll out dough to approximately 1/8 inch thick. Use pumpkin cookie cutter to cut out shapes; refrigerate cutouts for about 20 minutes. With a sharp knife, carve jack-o-lantern faces into half of the cutouts.

Step 6: Assemble Hand Pies

Preheat oven again to 375°F (190°C). Prepare baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly beat an egg in a bowl. Place cutouts without faces on tray; add about 1½ tablespoons filling in center of each one. Brush edges with beaten egg; place cutout with face on top aligning edges carefully. Seal edges using a fork; brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired. Repeat until all are assembled; bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown. Cool on rack before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies, perfect as festive treats during Halloween!

How to Serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are not just delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any Halloween celebration. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Festive Platter

• Arrange several hand pies on a large platter for a colorful display. Garnish with fall leaves or mini pumpkins for an extra festive touch.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve warm hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture complements the sweet filling perfectly.

Hot Cocoa Complement

• Offer these hand pies alongside mugs of hot cocoa. The warmth of the drink enhances the cozy fall flavors of the pies.

Halloween-Themed Table Setting

• Create a spooky ambiance by pairing your hand pies with themed tableware. Use orange and black plates or napkins to match the Halloween spirit.

Individual Treat Bags

• Package each hand pie in a small treat bag for guests to take home. Add a personalized tag for an extra special touch.

Dessert Bar Display

• Set up a dessert bar featuring Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies along with other Halloween treats. This allows guests to mix and match their favorites.

How to Perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

To ensure your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and ice water help create a flaky crust, which is essential for delicious hand pies.
• Don’t skip refrigerating the dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps it maintain its shape while baking.
• Cut out faces carefully: Take your time when cutting out jack-o-lantern faces to ensure they look fun and festive.
• Seal edges well: Using a fork to press down on the edges ensures no filling leaks out during baking.
• Experiment with fillings: While apple and blackberry are classic choices, feel free to try different fruits or spices for unique flavors.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your hand pies as they bake; remove them once they’re golden brown for the best texture.

Best Side Dishes for Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies can enhance your overall meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement their flavors well.

1. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup adds seasonal flavor and pairs nicely with the sweetness of the pies.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with nuts and cranberries balances the richness of the hand pies, providing a refreshing contrast.
3. Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts add depth and contrast perfectly with the sweet hand pies.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide variety; include sharp cheddar or brie for an interesting taste experience.
5. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink enhances autumn vibes and complements the apple filling in the hand pies beautifully.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness mirrors that of the hand pies while adding hearty texture.
7. Savory Pumpkin Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with pumpkin flavors makes for an elegant side dish that pairs well with dessert.
8. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce can brighten each bite, adding balance between sweet and tart notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies can be a fun experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm butter: Warm butter can lead to a greasy crust. Always use very cold butter for the best texture.
• Skipping refrigeration: Not chilling the dough can result in tough hand pies. Refrigerate for at least one hour to ensure flakiness.
• Overfilling with filling: Adding too much filling can cause spills during baking. Stick to the recommended 1 1/2 tablespoons per pie.
• Not sealing edges properly: If edges aren’t sealed well, filling may leak out. Use a fork to crimp the edges securely.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking times vary by oven. Keep an eye on your pies and adjust as necessary for even browning.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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 about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can prepare the dough and fillings ahead of time. Assemble and bake them closer to serving time for freshness.

What types of fillings work well with Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Aside from apple and blackberry, consider pumpkin, sweet potato, or even chocolate fillings for variety.

How do I customize my Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger, or incorporate nuts and dried fruits into your fillings.

Can I bake these hand pies without alcohol?

Yes! Simply substitute bourbon with apple juice or omit it altogether; they will still taste delicious.

Final Thoughts

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are not just adorable but also versatile desserts perfect for Halloween gatherings. With options for different fillings and easy customization, you can delight your guests with these tasty treats. Give this recipe a try and enjoy making your own festive creations!