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Pumpkin Empanadas (Mini Hand Pies)

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Pumpkin Hand Pies with Whole Wheat Crust: A Delightful Homemade Treat

These pumpkin hand pies are a comforting dessert that combines a spiced pumpkin filling with a flaky whole wheat crust. Perfect for fall or any time of year, they’re a delightful homemade treat that will fill your home with warm, inviting aromas. Follow this detailed recipe to create these delectable hand pies from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups pumpkin puree (homemade or canned)
  • ½ cup coconut sugar
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Dough:

  • 1 ½ cups (225g) whole wheat flour
  • 1 ½ cups (200g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold, cut into cubes
  • 2 eggs, whisked
  • 1 tablespoon milk

For the Egg Wash:

  • 1 egg, whisked
  • Sugar for sprinkling

Preparing the Filling

Cook the Pumpkin Mixture

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
  2. Stir in the pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, and salt.
  3. Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring often, until the sugar dissolves completely, and the filling becomes thick and darker in color. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Taste the filling and adjust the sugar or spices to your preference.
  5. Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.

Preparing the Dough

Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, and salt until well combined.

Incorporate the Butter

  1. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or two forks, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add Wet Ingredients

  1. Pour the whisked eggs and one tablespoon of milk into the flour and butter mixture. Mix thoroughly until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too dry, add a few drops of milk until it holds together but isn’t sticky.

Chill the Dough

  1. Form the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disk, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the dough to firm up.

Assembling the Hand Pies

Roll Out the Dough

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a round or oval cookie cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out as many pieces as possible.

Add the Filling

  1. Place a tablespoon of the cooled pumpkin filling in the center of half the dough rounds. Avoid overfilling to prevent leakage.
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Seal the Edges

  1. Top each filled piece with another dough round. Press the edges together with your fingers, then seal them by crimping with a fork.

Prepare for Baking

  1. Transfer the hand pies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pie with the whisked egg for a golden finish and sprinkle with sugar for added texture and sweetness.

Baking

Bake to Perfection

  1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the hand pies for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
  2. Remove the pies from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Hand Pies

  • Chill the Dough: Cold dough is easier to work with and ensures a flaky crust. Always keep it chilled until ready to use.
  • Homemade Pumpkin Puree: If using homemade pumpkin puree, make sure it’s thick and not watery to avoid soggy pies.
  • Customize the Filling: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for extra spice or increase the sweetness if you prefer a dessert-like filling.
  • Seal Thoroughly: Ensure the edges are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dough and filling a day ahead and assemble the pies just before baking for convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze these hand pies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked hand pies. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use pre-made pie dough?
Absolutely! While homemade dough provides the best flavor and texture, pre-made dough works well for a quicker version.

What other fillings can I use?
These hand pies are versatile. Try apple, pear, or even sweet potato fillings for variety.

Why is my crust not flaky?
Ensure the butter is cold when incorporating it into the flour. This helps create flaky layers in the crust.

How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Enjoy the warm, spiced flavor of these pumpkin hand pies, and savor the satisfaction of baking this classic treat from scratch. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a festive dessert!

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