If you’re searching for a cozy, sweet treat that perfectly captures the spirit of autumn, you have to try this Fried Pumpkin Hand Pies with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe. These little pockets of pumpkin pie filling, encased in crispy, golden fried crusts and dusted with a fragrant cinnamon sugar coating, are pure joy in every bite. Whether you whip them up for a festive gathering or just because your sweet tooth deserves some love, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your seasonal favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is wonderfully straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in making these pies irresistibly delicious. From the flakey crust to the spiced sweetness of pumpkin filling, these components come together to create magic.
- Pie crust: Use a homemade batch for the flakiest texture or store-bought for quick convenience, either works beautifully here.
- Pumpkin pie filling: This is the star of the show—smooth, warmly spiced, and creamy, it fills every hand pie with seasonal comfort.
- Canola or vegetable oil: Essential for frying, these oils have a neutral flavor and high smoke point perfect for crisping your hand pies.
- Granulated sugar: Combined with cinnamon to create a sweet, crunchy coating that takes these pies from good to unforgettable.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds that classic, aromatic warmth that perfectly complements pumpkin.
How to Make Fried Pumpkin Hand Pies with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crusts
Start by rolling out your pie crust to about an eighth of an inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. This thinness ensures that your pies come out perfectly crisp without being doughy. Then, use a 4 to 5-inch round cookie cutter to cut out as many circles as you can—expect around 26 to 28 rounds from homemade dough, and slightly fewer from store-bought.
Step 2: Fill and Shape the Hand Pies
Next, place a generous heaping tablespoon of pumpkin pie filling right in the center of each round. To seal, carefully fold the dough over into a half-moon shape, moisten the edges with a touch of water, and crimp firmly with a fork. This step is key to making sure none of that luscious filling escapes during frying.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
While you prepare to fry, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple mixture will coat your pies while they are still warm, creating a delightful glaze bursting with flavor and a subtle crunch.
Step 4: Fry the Hand Pies
Heat about 2 to 3 inches of oil in a medium-sized pot until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Carefully lower 2 to 3 hand pies into the hot oil and fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Remove the pies and place them on a paper towel-lined rack to drain any excess oil. Keep a close eye on the temperature to maintain consistent frying heat—it’s what guarantees that perfect crispy finish every time.
Step 5: Coat and Serve
While the pies are still warm, dunk them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, letting that sugary coating stick all over the surface. Serve these little delights warm for a gooey experience, or enjoy them cold as a portable snack packed with fall flavors.
How to Serve Fried Pumpkin Hand Pies with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Fried Pumpkin Hand Pies with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze for an added touch of sweetness and elegance. A small dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also pairs beautifully to balance the warm spices with creamy richness.
Side Dishes
These hand pies are fantastic as a dessert or snack but also complement a cup of hot apple cider, chai tea, or a robust coffee. For a more substantial treat, serve alongside a fresh green salad or a light soup to balance sweet and savory elements at any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your table into an autumn wonderland by arranging the hand pies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and colorful fall leaves. You can also serve them in a basket lined with a cozy plaid napkin for a charming, homey vibe that invites everyone to dig in eagerly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust relatively crisp, though they’re best enjoyed fresh to capture that perfect fried texture.
Freezing
To freeze, place the uncoated, fried hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to two months and reheated whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or leftover pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisped up again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the lovely crunchiness of the crust.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie filling?
You can, but pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced, which saves you time and delivers the best flavor. If using canned pumpkin, you’ll want to add sugar and spices separately to mimic the filling.
What type of oil is best for frying these hand pies?
Canola or vegetable oil works best due to their neutral flavor and high smoke point. Avoid strong-flavored oils like olive oil to keep the focus on the pies’ sweet pumpkin taste.
Can I bake these hand pies instead of frying?
You absolutely can bake them! Brush the pies with an egg wash, then bake in a preheated 400°F oven for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but still delicious and a little lighter.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy when filled?
Don’t overfill your pies and make sure to seal the edges very well. Also, frying at the right oil temperature is key—too low and the pie absorbs oil, making it soggy instead of crisp.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pie crust recipe or store-bought option and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. The frying and filling process stays the same, and you’ll have everyone enjoying these tasty treats.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, these Fried Pumpkin Hand Pies with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe will bring warmth and smiles to your kitchen and your table. They’re simple to make but impressively delicious, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring quietly by yourself. Give this recipe a try and discover just how magical pumpkin pie can be when it’s fried and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. You won’t regret it!
Print
Fried Pumpkin Hand Pies with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 26 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pumpkin Hand Pies are a delightful fall treat featuring a flaky homemade or store-bought pie crust filled with rich pumpkin pie filling. Fried to a golden perfection and coated in cinnamon sugar, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and spice with a crispy exterior and soft, flavorful inside. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these hand pies are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 batch homemade pie crust recipe or 2 boxes store-bought pie crusts
Filling
- 2 cups pumpkin pie filling (homemade or store-bought)
Frying
- Canola or vegetable oil, for frying (2-3 inches in pot)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Crusts: Roll out the pie crust(s) to â…›-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Cut Crust Circles: Use a 4-5 inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles. From a homemade batch, you should get about 26-28 rounds; store-bought crusts may yield fewer.
- Fill and Shape Pies: Place 1 heaping tablespoon of pumpkin pie filling in the center of each crust circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, moisten the edges with water, and press with a fork to seal tightly.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside for coating later.
- Heat Oil: Pour 2-3 inches of canola or vegetable oil into a medium pot and heat to 375°F (190°C), monitoring temperature carefully.
- Fry Hand Pies: Carefully place 2-3 hand pies into the hot oil at a time. Fry each for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a paper towel-lined cooling rack to drain excess oil.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on oil temperature between batches, maintaining a steady 375°F for even frying and best texture.
- Coat Pies in Cinnamon Sugar: While still warm, dip each fried hand pie into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat thoroughly, adding a sweet, spiced finish.
- Serve: Serve the pumpkin hand pies warm to enjoy their fresh crispiness or at room temperature according to preference.
Notes
- You can prepare the pie crust ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it until ready to use.
- Carefully monitor the oil temperature to prevent pies from burning or absorbing excess oil.
- Use a slotted spoon to safely remove pies from hot oil to avoid splatters.
- The pumpkin pie filling can be enhanced with extra spices like nutmeg or ginger if desired.
- Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container and reheat in an oven or air fryer for best texture.
