Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

These delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are the perfect treat for your Halloween festivities! Filled with sweet apples and juicy blackberries, these hand pies are not only delicious but also fun to make. Their festive pumpkin shape and playful jack-o-lantern faces make them a standout dessert at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a spooky soirée or enjoying a cozy night in, these hand pies will surely enchant both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Festive Presentation: The cute pumpkin shapes and carved jack-o-lantern faces add a fun touch to your Halloween table.
• Deliciously Sweet Filling: Combining honey crisp apples with fresh blackberries creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize the fillings based on your favorite fruits or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Sharing: These hand pies are great for parties or as a delightful treat to share with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife
• Cookie cutter (4-inch pumpkin shape)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes mixing the dough effortless, ensuring even consistency without much manual effort.
• Rolling pin: A rolling pin is crucial for achieving the perfect thickness of your pie crust, which is key to a flaky texture.
• Sharp knife: A good knife allows you to easily carve out the jack-o-lantern faces without damaging the pastry.
• Baking sheet: Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

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 fruit juice (substituting bourbon)
• 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 the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix on low for 15 seconds. Add the cold butter all at once and beat on low until the mixture resembles coarse sand with pea-sized pieces of butter. With the mixer on low, add 6 tablespoons of ice water. Beat on low for 2 to 3 minutes until the dough clumps around the paddle. If too dry, add more ice water one teaspoon at a time.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Tip the dough out onto a lightly floured surface using a spatula. Quickly knead it into a rough ball. Divide into two halves, shape each into rough balls, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and flatten into discs. Refrigerate for at least one hour or up to overnight.

Step 3: Prepare Apple Filling

Heat salted butter in a stainless steel sauté pan until just golden brown. Add diced apples and cook for 2 minutes. Then add fruit juice (substituting bourbon), cooking for another minute. Mix in vanilla bean paste, cinnamon, and brown sugar; toss well. Cook until reduced to syrupy consistency (about 5–7 minutes). Cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Make Blackberry Filling

Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat oven to 400°F. Place blackberries on baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes. Transfer blackberries to a stainless steel pot, adding granulated sugar and vanilla extract; simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until thickened. Allow cooling to room temperature.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Remove dough from refrigerator. Lightly dust work surface with flour and roll out each disc to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a 4-inch pumpkin cookie cutter to cut as many pieces as possible. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Cut jack-o-lantern faces into half of these cutouts using a sharp knife.

Step 6: Assemble Hand Pies

Preheat oven to 375°F again if necessary. Line another baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly beat an egg in a bowl for egg wash. Take pumpkin cutouts without faces; place about 1½ tablespoons of either filling in center of each piece. Brush edges around filling with egg wash before placing cutouts with faces on top, aligning edges carefully. Use a fork to seal edges together securely, then brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.

Step 7: Bake

Repeat assembly process until all hand pies are ready. Bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they are dark golden brown. Let cool on wire racks before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies at your next Halloween celebration!

How to Serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are not only delightful to eat but also visually appealing, making them a perfect centerpiece for your Halloween table. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the hand pies on a large platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. Add some fake spider webs or decorative pumpkins around the pies for an added spooky touch.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve warm Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side. The creamy texture complements the fruit fillings beautifully.

Halloween-Themed Drinks

• Create a festive drink station with non-alcoholic options like apple cider or pumpkin spice lattes. These drinks pair perfectly with the sweet hand pies.

Treat Bags

• For a fun twist, package individual hand pies in treat bags tied with orange ribbons. This makes for a great party favor that guests can take home!

Dessert Bar

• Set up a dessert bar featuring various toppings such as caramel sauce, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle. Guests can customize their own hand pie experience.

How to Perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Achieving the perfect Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies takes some practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out just right.

• Use cold ingredients: Make sure the butter and water are very cold to create a flaky crust.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough before rolling it out. This helps maintain its structure and makes handling easier.
• Don’t overfill: Leave enough space around the filling to seal the edges properly; otherwise, they may burst open during baking.
• Seal well: Press down firmly on the edges with a fork to ensure they are sealed tightly, preventing any filling from leaking out.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your hand pies while baking; ovens can vary, so you might need to bake them slightly less or more than 25 minutes.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to try different fruit combinations or spices in your fillings for unique flavors that suit your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

Pairing your hand pies with complementary side dishes can enhance their flavor profile. Here are some delicious options.

1. Spiced Apple Salad
   A refreshing mix of sliced apples, nuts, and a light cinnamon dressing adds crunch and balances sweetness.

2. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup serves as a comforting contrast to the flaky hand pies.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts make for a savory side that pairs well with sweet desserts.

4. Cranberry Chutney
   A tart cranberry chutney provides a nice contrast and adds festive color when served alongside the sweet hand pies.

5. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the hand pies.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the hand pies while adding savory elements to your meal.

7. Mixed Green Salad
   A simple salad dressed in vinaigrette helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich dessert.

8. Caramel Dipping Sauce
   For those who enjoy extra sweetness, serve alongside caramel sauce for dipping and drizzling over both savory and sweet aspects of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overworking the Dough: Kneading the dough too much can lead to tough hand pies. Mix just until combined and avoid excessive handling.
• Skipping the Chill: Not refrigerating the dough can result in a less flaky crust. Always chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out.
• Filling Too Much: Overfilling your hand pies may cause them to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended amount of filling to ensure they bake evenly.
• Ignoring Egg Wash: Skipping the egg wash will lead to dull-looking hand pies. Brush the tops with egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven before placing the hand pies inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Freeze hand pies individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm; this may make them slightly softer.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are delightful pastry treats filled with sweet fruit fillings, perfect for Halloween festivities.

Can I customize my Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Yes! You can use different fruits like pears or peaches or even make savory versions with cheese and vegetables.

How do I know when my Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are done?

Look for a dark golden brown color and ensure they are firm when gently pressed.

Can I make these hand pies vegan?

You can substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use a flax egg instead of an egg wash for vegan-friendly options.

How should I serve Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies?

Serve them warm or at room temperature as a fun dessert at your Halloween party!

Final Thoughts

Jack-O-Lantern Hand Pies are not only adorable but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their customizable nature allows you to experiment with various fillings, making them perfect for Halloween or any festive gathering. Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try!