If you’re looking for a delightfully nostalgic treat that wraps up autumn flavors in a perfectly portable package, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Sweet Potato Hand Pies. Imagine buttery, flaky pastry enveloping a creamy sweet potato filling, complemented by cinnamon, nutmeg, and just enough brown sugar to tickle your sweet tooth. These handheld pies are equal parts comforting and impressive, ideal for cozy gatherings or a special after-school snack. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this Sweet Potato Hand Pies recipe bookmarked for all your happiest occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in keeping things simple, and that’s precisely what makes these Sweet Potato Hand Pies such a joy to prepare. Each ingredient plays a starring role, bringing flavor, texture, and even a touch of golden color to your finished pies. Here’s what you’ll need, plus tips to get them just right!
- Mashed Sweet Potato (1 cup, about 1 medium): Roasting the sweet potato deepens its natural sweetness—don’t skip it if you have the time!
- Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): This adds warmth and a bit of caramel-like depth to the filling.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): For that essential cozy, fall-inspired spice.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch gives the filling an extra aromatic lift.
- Salt (1/8 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the filling with classic, comforting notes.
- Heavy Cream (1 tablespoon): Makes the filling super creamy; milk or non-dairy work in a pinch.
- Refrigerated Pie Crusts (1 package, 14 oz, 2 crusts): Your shortcut to effortlessly flaky, golden pastry.
- Egg (1, for egg wash): When brushed on top, it creates a gorgeously shiny crust.
- Water (1 tablespoon): Helps thin the egg wash for even brushing.
- Coarse Sugar (optional): Give your pies that sparkle and delicate crunch on top.
How to Make Sweet Potato Hand Pies
Step 1: Prep Your Sweet Potato Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s completely smooth and creamy. This aromatic blend sets the tone for your Sweet Potato Hand Pies, so make sure each bite of filling is velvety and well-seasoned!
Step 2: Shape the Pie Crusts
Unroll your prepared pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. Using a round 4-inch cookie cutter (a drinking glass works, too!), cut out as many circles as you can. These circles create the delicate, golden shell that will hold all your flavorful filling. Gather any dough scraps, re-roll gently, and cut additional rounds if needed to make the most of your crusts.
Step 3: Add the Sweet Potato Filling
Place about 1 tablespoon of the sweet potato mixture right in the center of half the dough circles. Be careful not to overfill—otherwise, your pies may leak! The magic really happens here as the rich, spiced filling nestles just waiting to be wrapped in pastry.
Step 4: Seal and Crimp
Take the remaining dough rounds and gently place them on top of your filled circles. Seal the edges by pressing with your fingers, then use the tines of a fork to crimp all around the edge. Not only does this keep your Sweet Potato Hand Pies neat and tidy, but it also gives them that charming homemade look.
Step 5: Finish with Egg Wash and Sugar
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make your egg wash. Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of each hand pie; this guarantees a beautiful golden finish. For extra sparkle and sweetness, sprinkle a little coarse sugar over the tops. Finally, cut a small slit in the top of each pie to let steam escape during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Line up your hand pies on the prepared baking sheet and slide them into your preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the tops are glistening. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be pure anticipation! Let the pies cool for a few minutes—they’ll still be warm and flaky, with the filling just the right amount of gooey.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Hand Pies
Garnishes
For a picnic-perfect finish, dust your Sweet Potato Hand Pies with a touch of powdered sugar or an extra pinch of cinnamon just before serving. If you’re really feeling indulgent, a drizzle of maple glaze or a dollop of whipped cream adds a festive flair that’s hard to resist.
Side Dishes
Sweet Potato Hand Pies shine all on their own, but they’re also lovely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side if you’re serving dessert. For a brunch spread, pair them with fresh fruit salad or spiced nuts for a colorful plate that hits every note.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the hand pies on a rustic wooden board for a charming, country-bakery look. For parties, wrap each in parchment for a grab-and-go treat, or pack them in a festive box tied with ribbon for gifting. Arrange them in a circle on your favorite cake stand to make them the centerpiece of your dessert table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sweet Potato Hand Pies are a joy to have on hand—they stay fresh for 2–3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll hold up beautifully for about 5 days.
Freezing
These hand pies freeze like a dream! Let them cool completely, then layer them between pieces of parchment paper in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat for a fresh-from-the-oven experience any time.
Reheating
To bring your Sweet Potato Hand Pies back to life, bake them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps the crust regain its signature flakiness, so every bite tastes just-baked!
FAQs
Can I use canned sweet potato instead of fresh?
Yes, canned sweet potato (pure sweet potato, not pie filling) works just fine! Just make sure it’s well-drained and mashed, and proceed with the recipe as written.
How do I keep the filling from leaking out?
Be careful not to overfill your dough circles and make sure the edges are well-sealed with a fork. Also, the slit on top of each pie is important—it lets steam escape and prevents bursting.
Can I make Sweet Potato Hand Pies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pie crust, either homemade or store-bought. The filling is already gluten-free, so it’s just the crust you’ll need to adapt.
What’s the best way to mash the sweet potato?
Roast, steam, or microwave your sweet potato until tender, peel, and mash thoroughly with a fork or potato masher until completely smooth. No lumps means a creamier, more luxurious filling!
Can I make these ahead for a holiday gathering?
Yes! Sweet Potato Hand Pies are perfect for making in advance. Bake them a day ahead and store in an airtight container, then warm before serving. Alternatively, freeze baked pies for easy holiday prep.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about a treat you can hold in your hand and savor in a few bites—especially when it tastes like the best bits of fall. Sweet Potato Hand Pies are always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re sharing with loved ones or sneaking one as a personal treat with your afternoon coffee. I hope you’ll give these a try and make them part of your own traditions—you might be surprised how quickly they disappear!
