Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

Indulge in the seasonal delight of Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies! These delightful treats are perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions. With their flaky crust and rich pumpkin filling, they offer a delicious way to celebrate fall flavors. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Get ready to impress friends and family with these scrumptious hand pies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These hand pies come together in no time, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats without the fuss.
• Flavorful Filling: The pumpkin filling is infused with warm spices, creating a comforting taste that captures the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Treats: Perfect as a dessert or snack, these mini pies can be enjoyed at parties, potlucks, or as a cozy treat at home.
• Healthier Option: Cooking them in an air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed while still achieving that golden crispiness.
• Perfectly Portable: Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to take on the go—ideal for lunchboxes or picnics.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks the pies evenly while providing that crispy texture without excessive oil.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough to achieve uniform thickness, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients smoothly to create your delicious filling.

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Ingredients

For the Dough

• All-purpose flour
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
• Cold water

For the Filling

• Canned pumpkin puree
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Ginger

How to Make Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and unsalted butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until crumbly.
2. Gradually add cold water until the dough holds together. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In another bowl, mix together canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

1. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass.

Step 4: Assemble Hand Pies

1. Place a small spoonful of pumpkin filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold over the dough to create a half-moon shape. Press edges with a fork to seal.

Step 5: Cook in Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer at 350°F (175°C).
2. Place hand pies in the basket without overcrowding.
3. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Allow cooling slightly before serving.
2. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies are versatile treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them as a dessert, snack, or festive treat, these delightful pastries will impress everyone at your gathering.

With Whipped Coconut Cream

• A light and airy option that complements the richness of the pumpkin filling perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the hand pies with other seasonal treats like cookies and tarts for a beautiful presentation.

With a Drizzle of Maple Syrup

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling pure maple syrup over the warm hand pies.

Alongside Hot Beverages

• Serve these mini pies with coffee, tea, or apple cider for a cozy fall experience.

Topped with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies, follow these helpful tips:

• Use chilled dough: Keeping your pastry dough chilled helps maintain its flakiness when air frying.
• Don’t overfill: Ensure you fill each pie generously but avoid overflowing to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
• Seal edges well: Press down firmly on the edges after filling to create a secure seal and prevent leaks.
• Preheat your air fryer: This step ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown color on your hand pies.
• Check for doneness: Cooking times may vary; keep an eye on the pastries to ensure they don’t overcook.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
   A delicious alternative to regular fries, these add a sweet flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
2. Apple Salad
   Fresh apples mixed with greens and nuts create a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the hand pies.
3. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup
   This smooth soup is comforting and complements the pumpkin filling nicely as a starter.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Their earthy flavor provides balance and makes for a delightful side dish alongside sweet treats.
5. Maple Glazed Carrots
   Tender carrots with a touch of maple syrup echo the sweetness of the pies while adding color to your plate.
6. Savory Green Beans
   Lightly seasoned green beans add freshness and crunch, creating a perfect contrast to rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies even better.

• Skipping the chill – Not chilling the dough before rolling it out can lead to tough pastries. Always refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Overfilling – Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst during cooking. Stick to a tablespoon of filling per pie.
• Ignoring preheating – Failing to preheat your air fryer can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat for optimal results.
• Not sealing properly – Leaving gaps when sealing the edges can lead to leaking filling. Use a fork or your fingers to ensure a tight seal.
• Using the wrong temperature – Cooking at too high or too low a temperature can affect texture. Follow the recommended settings for perfect outcomes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

• Freeze unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label bags with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power in short intervals (20-30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies?

Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies are small pastries filled with a delicious pumpkin mixture, cooked in an air fryer for a crispy texture without excess oil.

How do I make Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies?

To make these hand pies, prepare the dough and filling, assemble, and then cook them in an air fryer until golden brown.

Can I customize the filling of my Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies?

Yes! You can add spices like nutmeg or cinnamon, or mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.

How long do Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies last?

They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 3 months if frozen before baking.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize the filling and enjoy them as snacks, desserts, or even breakfast treats. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress family and friends!