Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies

Fall is in the air, and there is no better way to celebrate than with the cozy aroma of pumpkin spice filling your home. These Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies are the perfect autumn treat when you want all the flavor of a classic pumpkin pie but in a portable, crispy package. They are incredibly easy to make and satisfy that craving for a warm, flaky dessert without the hassle of baking a whole pie.

Using an air fryer changes the game for homemade pastries. It creates a beautiful golden-brown crust in a fraction of the time a traditional oven requires. Whether you are looking for a quick after-school snack or a fun addition to your holiday dessert table, these little hand pies are sure to be a massive hit with your family and friends.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 pies
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 215 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 190mg

Why Make This Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies

One of the best reasons to make these hand pies is the incredible texture. The air fryer circulates hot air around the entire pastry, ensuring the bottom is just as crisp as the top. Unlike oven-baked pies which can sometimes end up with a “soggy bottom,” these treats remain perfectly crunchy and flaky throughout.

These hand pies are also great for portion control and convenience. You can make a batch and take them on the go, or pack them in lunchboxes for a special seasonal surprise. Plus, because they use refrigerated pie crust, you can spend less time kneading dough and more time enjoying your delicious creation.

How to Make Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies

The process is straightforward and fun, making it a great activity for kids to help with. You just need to mix a simple filling, cut your dough into shapes, and let the air fryer do the heavy lifting.

Ingredients

• 1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (contains 2 rolls)
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sanding sugar or cinnamon sugar (for topping)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and the sugar is fully incorporated. Set this aside for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. Use a round 3.5-inch or 4-inch cookie cutter (or a large glass) to cut out circles. You should be able to get about 8 to 10 circles by re-rolling the scraps as needed.

Step 3: Fill the Pastries

Place about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the pumpkin mixture into the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill them, as the filling might leak out during the cooking process.

Step 4: Seal and Crimp

Fold the dough circle in half over the filling to create a semi-circle. Use a fork to press down firmly along the curved edge to seal the pie shut. This creates a decorative edge and keeps the filling inside.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Brush the top of each hand pie with the beaten egg wash. This helps the crust turn a beautiful golden color. Use a sharp knife to cut two tiny slits in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape. Sprinkle the tops generously with coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Place the hand pies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. You may need to work in batches. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Carefully remove the pies from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes. The filling will be very hot, so giving them a moment to rest is essential before taking your first bite.

How to Serve Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies

These pies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a festive touch, drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the top or serve them with a side of whipped cream for dipping. They also pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or apple cider.

How to Store Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To regain that fresh-baked crunch, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes before eating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies

Make sure your pumpkin puree is not “pumpkin pie filling,” which already has sugar and spices added and may be too thin. If your dough feels too soft or sticky, chill it in the fridge for 10 minutes before cutting. Lastly, always ensure the edges are crimped very tightly; otherwise, the steam will push the filling out the sides.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to get creative with your fillings! You can add a few chocolate chips to the pumpkin mixture for a “chocolate pumpkin” twist. Another great option is to place a small dollop of cream cheese inside with the pumpkin for a cheesecake-style pie. If you prefer a glaze, skip the sugar topping before frying and drizzle a mix of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled pies instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use homemade pie crust for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade crust works wonderfully. Just make sure to roll it out thin enough so that it cooks through properly in the air fryer.

Q: Do I need to flip the hand pies while they cook?

Generally, you do not need to flip them because the air fryer circulates heat underneath. However, if your specific model tends to brown unevenly, you can gently flip them halfway through.

Q: Can I freeze these hand pies?

Yes, you can freeze them either before or after cooking. If freezing raw, assemble them and freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. Cook from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes to the air frying time.

Q: Why did my hand pies burst open in the air fryer?

This usually happens if there is too much filling or if the edges weren’t sealed tightly enough. It can also happen if you forget to cut the steam vents in the top.

Q: Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?

Yes, puff pastry is a delicious alternative. It will be much lighter and more layered. If using puff pastry, keep the temperature at 350°F but watch them closely as they may cook faster.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies are the ultimate shortcut to a delicious fall dessert. They offer that nostalgic pumpkin pie flavor with a satisfyingly crispy texture that only an air fryer can provide. Simple to prepare and even easier to eat, these treats are bound to become a new seasonal tradition in your home. Give them a try today and enjoy the taste of autumn in every bite!

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