Sweet Potato Hand Pies

These golden, flaky Sweet Potato Hand Pies wrap everything you love about sweet potato pie into a warm, portable pastry. With a cozy spiced filling and a hint of maple, they’re ideal for Thanksgiving tables, brunch buffets, or late-night snack runs. Want to level up? Add a savory twist with a touch of feta and black beans. Yep—two vibes, one pie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and maple syrup creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual brunch, these hand pies fit right in.
• Customizable Filling: Enjoy the sweet version or mix it up with savory ingredients like feta and black beans.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Portable Treats: These hand pies are easy to take on the go, making them perfect for snacks or picnics.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly for perfectly shaped hand pies.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents any spills in your oven.

Ingredients

For these delicious Sweet Potato Hand Pies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pastry

• 2 ready-made pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling fancy)
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

For the Filling

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (roasted or boiled)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for extra depth)

Optional Savory Addition

• ½ cup canned black beans, drained
• ¼ cup crumbled feta
• ½ tsp cumin
• Chopped green onions or herbs (like thyme)

How to Make Sweet Potato Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a bowl:
1. Combine mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar.
2. Add pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, salt, and maple syrup.
3. If making the savory version, stir in black beans, feta cheese, and cumin.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

Roll out your pie dough on a floured surface:
1. Cut into circles about 3–4 inches wide.

Step 4: Fill the Hand Pies

1. Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
2. Fold over the dough and press edges with a fork to seal securely.

Step 5: Brush and Vent

Brush each hand pie with egg wash (or milk for a vegan version).
Poke small vents on top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 15–18 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Step 7: Optional Glaze

Drizzle with maple glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with maple syrup or dust with cinnamon sugar for an added touch of sweetness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Sweet Potato Hand Pies!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Hand Pies

Sweet Potato Hand Pies are deliciously versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or part of a larger meal, these hand pies will delight your taste buds.

For a Cozy Brunch

• Serve warm alongside fresh fruit for a sweet contrast.
• Pair with hot cocoa or spiced apple cider for a comforting drink option.

As an Appetizer

• Offer mini hand pies with dipping sauces like maple mustard or yogurt ranch.
• Present on a platter with assorted cheeses and crackers for a delightful appetizer spread.

At Family Gatherings

• Set up a DIY station allowing guests to customize their own hand pies with toppings like avocado or salsa.
• Include a side of greens tossed in vinaigrette to balance the flavors.

For Late-Night Snacking

• Enjoy hand pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat.
• Pair with tea or coffee for an inviting late-night indulgence.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Hand Pies

To make your Sweet Potato Hand Pies even better, consider these useful tips. They will help ensure that every bite is as delightful as possible.

• Use fresh sweet potatoes: Fresh ingredients yield the best flavor and texture in your filling.
• Avoid overfilling: Keep the filling to 1–2 tablespoons per pie to prevent bursting during baking.
• Seal edges well: Press edges firmly with a fork or pinch tightly to keep the filling inside while baking.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust spice levels based on your preference; try adding ginger or cardamom for extra warmth.
• Brush generously: Apply egg wash or milk evenly on top before baking for that perfect golden crust.
• Cool before serving: Allow the hand pies to cool slightly after baking to enhance flavor and ease handling.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Hand Pies

Pairing side dishes with Sweet Potato Hand Pies can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the pies.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned, roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts make an excellent side full of color and nutrients.
3. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad loaded with herbs and citrus brings brightness and texture alongside the savory hand pies.
4. Vegetable Soup: A warm bowl of vegetable soup offers comforting warmth and pairs well with the flaky pastry.
5. Coleslaw: Crisp coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it an ideal counterpart to the soft hand pie filling.
6. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with pita chips and veggies for a fun, interactive side dish that complements any flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sweet Potato Hand Pies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold dough handling: Overworking the dough can lead to tough hand pies. Handle the dough gently and only roll it out as needed.
• Bold filling proportions: Using too much filling can cause overflowing. Stick to 1–2 tablespoons per pie to ensure they seal properly.
• Bold temperature settings: Baking at incorrect temperatures can result in soggy or burnt pies. Always preheat the oven and use an accurate thermometer.
• Bold venting neglect: Forgetting to add vents can trap steam and make the crust soggy. Poke small holes on top before baking for better results.
• Bold cooling time: Cutting into pies too soon can lead to a messy filling. Let them cool slightly after baking to set the filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sweet Potato Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sweet Potato Hand Pies

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Hand Pies

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10–15 minutes until heated through.
• Bold Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate for about 30–60 seconds, but note that this may soften the crust.
• Bold Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet for about 5 minutes, flipping once for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sweet Potato Hand Pies.

Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh sweet potatoes work great! Just boil or roast them until soft before mashing.

How do I prevent my hand pies from getting soggy?

Ensure your filling is not too wet, and always poke vents in the crust before baking.

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

You can use crumbled goat cheese or leave it out entirely for a dairy-free version.

Can I make these Sweet Potato Hand Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and freeze them before baking.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

Consider adding spices like chili powder for heat or incorporating different veggies like spinach or kale into the filling.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Hand Pies are not just tasty; they’re versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them sweet or savory, they promise comfort in every bite. Don’t hesitate to customize your filling with your favorite ingredients for an exciting twist!