Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies
Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies are a delightful treat that combine the warm flavors of sweet potatoes with a flaky pie crust. These hand-held pies are not only delicious but also easy to make. They make a great dessert or snack for any gathering, and the sweet potato filling gives them a unique twist that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fall year-round. They are simple to prepare and can be baked fresh or made ahead of time and frozen for later. The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich filling that pairs perfectly with a crispy crust. Whether it’s for a party, family dinner, or just a cozy night at home, these hand pies are sure to please.
How to Make Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 2 cups mashed)
- 1⁄2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1⁄2 tsp nutmeg
- 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1⁄4 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water (to mix with the egg)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
- 2–3 tbsp milk (for glaze, optional)
- 1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze, optional)
Directions:
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Prepare the Filling: Boil or bake the sweet potatoes until tender. Allow them to cool slightly, then peel and mash until smooth. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, melted butter, and heavy cream to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until creamy. Set aside.
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Prepare the Pie Crusts: Roll out the pie dough on a floured surface. Use a 4–5 inch round cutter to cut circles from the dough.
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Assemble the Hand Pies: Spoon about 1–2 tablespoons of the sweet potato filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together with a fork to seal. Transfer the pies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Apply the Egg Wash: Whisk the egg with water in a small bowl. Brush the egg wash over the top of each hand pie.
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Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pies for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown.
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Prepare the Glaze (Optional): Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled pies.
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Serve: Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies
Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies can be served as a dessert or a snack. They are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a fun twist, try serving them with a side of caramel or maple syrup for dipping.
How to Store Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies
To store leftover hand pies, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the hand pies before baking. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Tips to Make Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies
- Make sure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked and cooled before mashing for the best texture.
- Use a fork to seal the edges of the pies; this creates a nice decorative edge as well.
- If you want a sweeter filling, feel free to add more brown sugar to taste.
- Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.
Variation
You can add other ingredients to the filling if you like. Consider incorporating chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch. You could also mix in some mini marshmallows for a fun twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, using store-bought pie crust will save you time and still yield delicious results.
2. Can I freeze the hand pies after baking?
Yes, you can freeze them after they’ve cooled. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
3. How long will the hand pies last in the refrigerator?
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.
Sweet Potato Stuffed Hand Pies are a delightful way to enjoy sweet potatoes in a fun and interactive format. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy!
