Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies: A Spooktacular Treat!

Introduction to Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself dreaming of Halloween treats. One of my absolute favorites is Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. These delightful little pastries are not just a feast for the eyes; they’re a quick solution for busy days filled with family activities. With their sweet blueberry filling and playful ghostly shapes, they’re sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for those last-minute Halloween gatherings. Let’s dive into this spooktacular recipe together!

Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies: A Spooktacular Treat!

Print Recipe

Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are a fun and spooky dessert perfect for Halloween celebrations. These hand pies are filled with sweet blueberry filling and shaped like ghostly figures, making them a delightful treat for both kids and adults.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 hand pies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 package of pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
3. Roll out the pie crusts and cut them into ghost shapes using a cookie cutter.
4. Place a spoonful of the blueberry filling on one half of each ghost shape.
5. Fold the other half over and seal the edges with a fork.
6. Brush the tops with egg wash.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let cool and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

• Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out.
• These can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container.
• Feel free to use frozen blueberries if fresh ones are not available.

Why You’ll Love This Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

These Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are a delightful blend of ease and flavor. They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy moms like us. The sweet, juicy blueberry filling is a crowd-pleaser, and the ghostly shapes add a fun twist to any Halloween celebration. Plus, they’re a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen, creating memories while baking together!

Ingredients for Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pie crusts: A package of pre-made pie crusts makes this recipe a breeze. You can also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Fresh blueberries: These juicy gems are the star of the show. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen blueberries work just as well.
• Sugar: A bit of sweetness to balance the tartness of the blueberries. You can adjust the amount based on your taste.
• Cornstarch: This helps thicken the blueberry filling, giving it a nice, gooey texture.
• Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor of the blueberries and adds a hint of zing.
• Egg: Used for the egg wash, it gives the hand pies a beautiful golden color when baked.
• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet finishing touch, making these ghostly treats even more enchanting.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies might not turn out as golden and flaky as you want. Trust me, a warm oven is your best friend!

Step 2: Prepare the Blueberry Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine your fresh blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring gently. As the blueberries heat up, they’ll start to burst and release their juices. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. This gooey filling is what makes these hand pies so irresistible! Once thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Shape the Ghosts

Now, let’s get creative! Roll out your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface until they’re about 1/8 inch thick. Using a ghost-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many shapes as you can. Don’t worry if you have some scraps left over; you can re-roll them to make more ghosts. The fun part is that each ghost can have its own personality, so feel free to make them different sizes!

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Pies

Take one ghost shape and place a spoonful of the blueberry filling on one half. Be careful not to overfill, or you’ll have a blueberry explosion! Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges together. Use a fork to seal them tightly, creating a cute crimped edge. This step is essential to keep all that delicious filling inside while baking!

Step 5: Brush and Bake

Before baking, brush the tops of your ghost hand pies with a beaten egg. This egg wash gives them a beautiful golden color. Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pop them in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 6: Cool and Dust

Once baked, remove the hand pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This cooling time is crucial; you don’t want to burn your tongue on that delicious filling! Finally, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a spooky, ghostly finish. Now they’re ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to seal the edges of your hand pies well to prevent any filling leaks.
• Chill your pie crusts for 15 minutes before rolling out for easier handling.
• Experiment with different cookie cutter shapes for a fun variety!
• For a touch of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the blueberry filling.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works perfectly. If you don’t have one, a large oven-safe dish will do.
• Parchment paper: This helps prevent sticking. If you’re out, lightly greasing the baking sheet is a good alternative.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for cooking the blueberry filling. Any pot will work!
• Cookie cutter: A ghost-shaped cutter is ideal, but you can use any fun shape you have on hand.
• Fork: Perfect for sealing the edges of your hand pies. A spoon can also work in a pinch!

Variations

• Fruit Filling: Swap out blueberries for other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or even a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crusts to make these hand pies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Version: Replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk for brushing, and use a vegan pie crust.
• Spiced Filling: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the blueberry filling for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After dusting with powdered sugar, drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Serve with a warm cup of apple cider or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• For a spooky presentation, arrange them on a black platter with Halloween-themed decorations.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Can I use frozen blueberries for the filling?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture in your filling.

How do I store leftover hand pies?

Store any leftover Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and shape the pies a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes for a quick treat when you need it!

What can I serve with these hand pies?

These ghostly treats pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of apple cider. They also make a fun addition to any Halloween dessert table!

Can I customize the shapes of the hand pies?

Of course! While ghost shapes are fun, feel free to use any cookie cutter you have on hand. Pumpkins, bats, or even simple circles can add a unique twist to your Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies!

Final Thoughts

Making Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories with your loved ones. The joy of rolling out dough, shaping ghostly figures, and filling them with sweet blueberry goodness brings a smile to my face every time. These hand pies are perfect for sharing, whether at a Halloween party or a cozy family night in. Plus, the laughter and excitement in the kitchen make the experience even sweeter. So, gather your family, embrace the spirit of Halloween, and enjoy these delightful treats together. Happy baking, and may your Halloween be filled with fun and flavor!