There’s nothing quite like the warmth of sweet and spiced flavors enveloped in a flaky, golden crust. The first time I pulled these Sweetpotato Hand Pies out of the oven, the rich aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy autumn afternoons. As I took my first bite, the crispy outside gave way to a creamy sweetpotato filling, perfectly balanced with hints of vanilla and pumpkin spice pure comfort in handheld form.
Perfect for any occasion, these hand pies are the ideal remedy for those mundane fast-food afternoons. They are delightful as a breakfast treat, a brunch side, or even as a snack to share with friends. Plus, they’re gluten-free and dairy-free, making them an accessible indulgence for everyone at your table. As the cooler months approach, let’s dive into this simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that promises to invite warmth and joy into your kitchen.
Why will you love Sweetpotato Hand Pies?
Comforting, Rich Flavor: The sweetpotato filling, blended with warm spices, creates an inviting taste that’s perfect for fall.
Simple Preparation: You’ll appreciate how easy these pies are to make, requiring just a few steps and common ingredients.
Adaptable Delight: Change up the spices or add nuts for your own twist—these hand pies let your creativity shine!
Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, they’re a tasty treat that friends and family will adore.
Nutritious and Satisfying: Gluten-free and dairy-free, they cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Trustworthy Recipe: With expert tips included, you’ll achieve the perfect texture every time, ensuring a delicious outcome!
Sweetpotato Hand Pie Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create these delightful hand pies!
For the Filling
- Sweetpotatoes – Provide natural sweetness and moisture; use medium-sized local tubers for the best flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps create a tender crust; substitute with a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – For flavor depth and warmth; you can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Sugar – Sweetens the filling; for a low-sugar version, consider using a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; a pinch is vital, but avoid excess for better flavor.
For the Crust
- Pillsbury Pie Crusts – Forms the outer layer; ensure they’re softened for easy handling, or use homemade for a fresher taste.
These Sweetpotato Hand Pies are not just simple to prepare but also offer a scrumptious way to celebrate the flavors of fall!
How to Make Sweetpotato Hand Pies
- Prepare Sweetpotatoes: Cook your sweetpotatoes until tender by boiling, baking, or microwaving them. Once soft, peel and mash for a creamy filling that will shine in your pies.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, blend the mashed sweetpotatoes with butter, pumpkin pie spice, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy to create a flavor-packed filling.
- Prepare Crust: Soften the Pillsbury pie crusts and roll them out carefully. Cut the dough into 3” circles, ensuring each piece is even for uniform pies that cook beautifully.
- Fill Pies: Place about 2 tablespoons of your luscious sweetpotato filling in the center of each dough circle. Moisten the edges with water, fold the dough over, and crimp with a fork to seal securely.
- Cook Pies: Fry your hand pies in ½ inch of heated vegetable oil or Crisco at 350°F for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. Alternatively, bake them at 425°F for 12-15 minutes until they achieve a light golden brown hue.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a delightful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sweetpotato Hand Pies are a meal prep dream, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sweetpotato filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook, mash, and mix with the remaining filling ingredients, then refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain the quality of your hand pies, you can also assemble them (filling and sealing) the night before and store them in the fridge, ready to fry or bake when you’re ready to enjoy. When it’s time to cook, just heat the oil or preheat your oven, and proceed with frying or baking as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade treats with minimal effort!
Sweetpotato Hand Pies Variations
Let your culinary creativity shine by adapting these hand pies to your taste preferences and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep the recipe plant-based and just as delicious.
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the sweetpotato filling for a delightful crunch and added richness.
- Spice It Up: Introduce a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising kick that complements the sweet flavor beautifully.
- Pumpkin Alternative: Swap sweetpotatoes for pumpkin or butternut squash for a seasonal flair that brings a different twist to each bite.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the filling for a savory contrast that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Sweet Swaps: Instead of sugar, try using maple syrup or honey for a more natural sweetener that enhances the filling’s richness.
- Fruit Fusion: Fold in diced apples or raisins into the filling for a fruity surprise that perfectly contrasts with the sweetpotato base.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use gluten-free pie crusts or try a homemade almond flour crust for a completely gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy!
Expert Tips for Sweetpotato Hand Pies
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use medium-sized, locally-sourced sweetpotatoes for the best flavor and moisture in your filling.
- Dough Handling: Always keep your pie crusts soft and manageable; if too hard, let them sit at room temperature for easier rolling and cutting.
- Frying vs. Baking: For a traditional touch, frying offers a crispy texture, while baking is a healthier option—choose based on your preference for Sweetpotato Hand Pies.
- Seal It Tight: Crimp the edges securely to avoid any filling leaking out during cooking. A good seal ensures maximum flavor stays inside!
- Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to customize the flavor profile. Just remember to balance with sweetness!
Storage Tips for Sweetpotato Hand Pies
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat your sweetpotato hand pies within a day, store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place, wrapped in a kitchen towel to maintain their crispiness.
Fridge: For longer storage, place leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore some crispness.
Freezer: To keep sweetpotato hand pies for extended periods, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat frozen hand pies directly from the freezer either in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes or in an air fryer for a quick and crispy option!
What to Serve with Sweetpotato Hand Pies?
Create a delightful dining experience that comforts the soul and warms the heart!
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad brings a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced pies, enhancing your meal with a burst of color.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: The richness of avocado balances the sweet of the filling wonderfully. Serve it alongside for a delicious twist!
- Warm Apple Cider: This warm drink fills your home with autumn aromas that perfectly complement the flavors of the hand pies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over your warm hand pie creates a heavenly mix of hot and cold textures.
- Honey Drizzle: Adding a touch of honey can accentuate the sweetness of the filling, giving it a beautiful sheen and extra flavor!
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness, when roasted, pairs beautifully with the sweet filling, creating a well-rounded, flavorful plate.
Sweetpotato Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What kind of sweetpotatoes should I use?
I recommend using medium-sized, locally sourced sweetpotatoes for the best flavor and moisture in your filling. Look for ones that are firm, with no dark spots or blemishes, for the optimal taste and texture.
How should I store leftover Sweetpotato Hand Pies?
Place leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to help restore their crispiness!
Can I freeze Sweetpotato Hand Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze your sweetpotato hand pies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them straight from the freezer in the oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
What if my dough is too hard to work with?
If your pie crust is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften. This will make it much easier to roll out and cut into circles for your hand pies.
Is this recipe suitable for those with gluten or dairy allergies?
Yes! These sweetpotato hand pies are both gluten-free and dairy-free. Just ensure to use a gluten-free pie crust and a dairy-free butter substitute to make this delightful treat accessible for everyone.
How can I tell if my frying oil is hot enough?
To check if your oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of filling into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re ready to fry. This ensures your sweetpotato hand pies cook evenly and achieve that crispy texture we all love!
Sweetpotato Hand Pies: Crispy Joy in Every Bite!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook your sweetpotatoes until tender by boiling, baking, or microwaving them. Once soft, peel and mash.
- In a large bowl, blend the mashed sweetpotatoes with butter, pumpkin pie spice, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
- Soften the Pillsbury pie crusts and roll them out carefully. Cut into 3” circles.
- Place about 2 tablespoons of sweetpotato filling in the center of each circle. Moisten edges, fold over, and crimp to seal.
- Fry in ½ inch of heated oil at 350°F for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, or bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.