If you’re dreaming of a cozy autumn treat that bursts with warm flavors and handy portability, the Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies Recipe is your go-to delight. These little pies bring together the comforting sweetness of pumpkin purée, the nutty crunch of pecans, and a touch of spice in a flaky, golden crust you can hold in your hand. Perfect for gatherings, afternoon snacks, or whenever you want to savor that pumpkin pie vibe without cutting a slice, these mini hand pies are a charming and delicious way to celebrate the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies is wonderfully simple because each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the buttery pie crust that wraps everything up to the sweet-spiced pumpkin filling, it’s a harmonious blend of basics that feels special.
- Refrigerated pie crust: The effortless base that delivers flaky, buttery goodness without the fuss of homemade dough.
- Pumpkin purée: Brings creamy richness and vibrant color that make each bite unmistakably autumnal.
- Pecans, chopped: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty depth that beautifully complements the pumpkin.
- Brown sugar: Sweetens the filling with caramel undertones to balance the spices and pumpkin.
- Pumpkin spice: The warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that instantly evokes cozy fall vibes.
- Egg mixed with a splash of milk: This egg wash helps create a stunning golden crust that’s irresistibly inviting.
- Powdered sugar: For the glaze, adding just the right touch of delicate sweetness and a pretty finish.
- Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle, woodsy flavor to the glaze that elevates every bite.
How to Make Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 200°C so it reaches the perfect temperature for baking these charming little pies. A hot oven ensures the crust puffs up just right, giving you that perfectly flaky texture that makes these hand pies so irresistible.
Step 2: Cut and Fill the Pie Crust Circles
Gently unroll your refrigerated pie crust and use a round cutter about 8 cm in diameter to cut out even circles. Each circle becomes a mini canvas for the pumpkin pecan filling—a mix of pumpkin purée, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and chopped pecans—to sit atop. Spoon a modest amount onto each crust circle, careful not to overfill, so you can seal them neatly without losing any pumpkin magic!
Step 3: Fold, Seal, and Brush with Egg Wash
Fold each dough circle in half over the filling, creating a perfect little pocket. Press the edges firmly to seal in all that goodness—this prevents any sweet filling from escaping during baking. Then, brush the tops with the egg and milk mixture to encourage that gorgeous golden brown color and shine once they’re in the oven.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Perfectly Crisp
Place your hand pies on a baking sheet and slide them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15 minutes or until each pie boasts a beautiful golden crust. The kitchen will fill with the dreamy scent of pumpkin spice and toasted pecans – honestly, this step is pure anticipation bliss.
Step 5: Glaze with a Sugary Maple Drizzle
While the pies cool, whisk together powdered sugar and maple syrup to create a luscious glaze. Once your hand pies are completely cool, drizzle the glaze generously on top. The sweet maple finish adds a lovely shine and an extra layer of fall flavor that makes these treats truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation, add a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze. A few fresh cranberries or a small mint leaf next to each pie can brighten the plate and invite everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or a robust coffee to round out a cozy autumn snack or dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these hand pies on a rustic wooden board or a pretty fall-themed platter to make your guests feel welcomed and spoiled. You can also serve them in individual mini cupcake liners for easy handling and a charming touch at parties or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to save some of these irresistible pies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust flaky and the filling moist, so you can enjoy that fresh-baked magic even later.
Freezing
Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies freeze beautifully! Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to one month. This way, you can have a sweet treat ready whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, thaw frozen pies at room temperature and reheat in a 175°C oven for 8–10 minutes. This refreshes the crust’s flakiness and warms the filling perfectly, just like when they first came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I make the pumpkin filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mixing the pumpkin purée with brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and pecans a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the filling even tastier when baked.
What can I use if I don’t have refrigerated pie crust?
You can use homemade pie dough if you prefer, or even puff pastry for an extra flaky texture. Both work wonderfully to encase the pumpkin pecan filling.
Is it possible to substitute pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds make great alternatives if pecans aren’t your favorite or available. Just chop them roughly to maintain that lovely crunch.
Can these pies be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use a gluten-free pie crust available at many stores or make your own gluten-free dough to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
What is the best way to serve these pies warm?
Serve them slightly warm for the best flavor and texture—just out of the oven or reheated briefly—paired with a scoop of ice cream or a warm beverage to make each bite extra comforting.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, once you try the Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite you reach for every fall and beyond. They’re easy to make, packed with delicious seasonal flavors, and perfect for sharing (or sneaking bites yourself). Give them a whirl, and let these cozy hand pies bring a little more joy and sweetness to your kitchen and table.
Print
Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini hand pies 1x
Description
These Mini Pumpkin Pecan Hand Pies are a delightful autumn treat featuring a flaky pie crust filled with a spiced pumpkin purée and crunchy pecans, baked to golden perfection and finished with a sweet maple glaze. Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crust
Filling
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice
Egg Wash
- 1 egg mixed with a splash of milk
Glaze
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (approximately 400°F) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the hand pies evenly.
- Prepare Pie Crust Circles: Roll out the refrigerated pie crust and cut into circles measuring about 8 cm in diameter. These will serve as the base for your mini hand pies.
- Assemble Filling: In a bowl, mix the pumpkin purée with brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and chopped pecans. Spoon a small amount of this filling onto the center of each pie crust circle.
- Seal the Pies: Fold each dough circle over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press and seal the edges securely to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top of each sealed hand pie with the egg wash mixture to promote a golden brown and glossy finish once baked.
- Bake: Place the pies on a baking sheet and bake them for about 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the crust is cooked through.
- Prepare Glaze: While the pies are baking, combine the powdered sugar and maple syrup in a small bowl to create a smooth glaze.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the hand pies to cool completely after baking. Drizzle the maple glaze over the top of each mini pie before serving for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the pie crust is cold before cutting to make handling easier and prevent sticking.
- You can substitute pumpkin pie spice with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves if desired.
- Allow pies to cool fully to avoid melting the glaze when drizzled on top.
- Store leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based milk for the egg wash or omit it.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
