Pumpkin Empanadas (Mini Filled Hand Pies)
These warm and comforting pumpkin hand pies are filled with a smooth, spiced pumpkin center and wrapped in a flaky whole wheat crust. Whether you’re enjoying a cool fall afternoon or simply craving something cozy, these homemade treats will fill your kitchen with delicious aromas. Follow this step-by-step guide to make them from scratch!
Pumpkin Empanadas (Mini Hand Pies)
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups pumpkin purée (homemade or canned)
- ½ cup coconut sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Dough
- 1½ cups (225 g) whole wheat flour
- 1½ cups (200 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 tbsp milk
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg, whisked
- Sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
Preparing the Filling
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low to medium heat. Add the pumpkin purée, coconut sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, and salt. Cook gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened and slightly darker in color. Adjust seasoning if needed, remove from heat, and let cool completely.
Making the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, coconut sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or forks until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Add the eggs and milk, mixing until a dough forms. If needed, add a little more milk. Shape into a ball, flatten into a disk, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Assembling the Hand Pies
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch rounds or ovals. Spoon about one tablespoon of filling onto half of each piece, leaving space around the edges. Top with another round, press to seal, and crimp with a fork. Place on a lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with sugar.
Baking
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
