If you’re on the hunt for a cozy treat that’s the very definition of comfort in every bite, look no further than this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe. Golden, flaky pastry envelopes a silky sweet potato filling kissed with warm spices, making every bite taste like autumn wrapped in buttery crust. These little pies are perfect for sharing—if you can resist keeping them all to yourself! Whether you want to perk up a brunch, surprise the family at dessert, or grab a cheerful snack on the go, this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe delivers simple ingredients, easy steps, and irresistible results.

Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the many joys of this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe is its straightforward ingredient list; each component is selected for the flavor, texture, and color it brings. Every item below plays a crucial role—making the pies taste rich, comforting, and beautifully spiced.

Mashed Sweet Potato: Opt for cooked and cooled sweet potato for the best creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor.
Brown Sugar: Deepens the filling’s sweetness with its rich molasses notes.
Ground Cinnamon: Adds unmistakable warmth and a hint of bake-shop nostalgia.
Ground Nutmeg: Just a touch brings complexity and compliments the cinnamon.
Ground Ginger: Gives a gentle zing that brightens each bite.
Salt: Makes all the flavors pop and balances the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the filling with luscious, floral notes.
Heavy Cream or Milk: Loosens the mixture just enough for a perfectly smooth filling.
Refrigerated Pie Crusts: Using ready-made crusts cuts down on prep time without sacrificing flakiness—just thaw before using.
Egg: Provides a gorgeous golden sheen when used as an egg wash.
Water: Whisked with the egg for the classic finish.
Powdered Sugar (optional): For drizzling on top if you crave a sweeter, glazed finish.
Milk (optional): Brings the glaze together—use more or less for desired thickness.
Vanilla Extract (optional): Infuses the glaze with gentle flavor that echoes the filling.

How to Make Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C); this ensures a perfectly even golden bake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those hand pies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze—trust me, you’ll want to spend your time savoring, not scrubbing!

Step 2: Make the Silky-Smooth Sweet Potato Filling

In a medium bowl, combine your mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, vanilla extract, and heavy cream (or milk). Mix it all together until the filling is smooth, luscious, and fragrant. This is the heart and soul of your Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe, so take a second to savor that aroma as you stir.

Step 3: Cut and Shape Your Pie Rounds

Lightly flour your work surface, then roll out the thawed pie crusts. Using a 4-inch round cutter (or an upturned glass), cut out as many rounds as you can. Gather up those scraps and roll out again to get approximately 12 total—no dough left behind!

Step 4: Fill, Fold, and Crimp

Place about a tablespoon of that silky sweet potato filling right in the center of each round. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon, then press the edges gently with a fork to seal in all that cozy goodness. This step gives each pie its classic handheld shape and a satisfying bite.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk together one egg and a tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush it generously over the tops of your hand pies—it creates that beautiful, shiny golden crust. Arrange the pies on your prepared baking sheet and pop into the oven. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until they’re puffed and gloriously golden.

Step 6: Glaze (Optional, But Recommended!)

If you love a bit of extra sweetness and shine, make the optional glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Once the pies have cooled, drizzle that glaze over each one for a bakery-worthy finish. Your Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe just got even more irresistible!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe

Garnishes

Finish with a shake of cinnamon, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a delicate drizzle of glaze—each adds a special touch and a hint of extra flavor. For added flair, top with a toasted pecan half or a few mini marshmallows for true autumnal vibes.

Side Dishes

Pair your hand pies with something creamy like vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream. They also shine alongside a steamy mug of chai, hot cocoa, or rich coffee—perfect for any time you crave comfort food with a little flair.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe stacked artfully on a rustic wooden board, arranged in a basket lined with a cheery napkin, or tucked in parchment for a picnic-style treat. For parties, offer them on skewers or under a glass dome for a touch of festive magic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked and cooled, you can store any leftover Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you like them a bit softer, move them to the fridge—this keeps them fresh for about four days.

Freezing

These hand pies freeze beautifully! Once baked (and without glaze), let them cool completely. Pack in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers and freeze for up to three months. When the craving strikes, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

To revive freshly baked flavor and crispiness, warm pies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–8 minutes, or pop them in the toaster oven. Microwaving works in a pinch for 20–30 seconds per pie, but the oven method brings back the glorious crust.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato for the filling?

Absolutely! Canned sweet potato makes this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe even quicker. Just be sure to drain off any excess liquid and mash until smooth for a creamy, lump-free filling.

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the pies, then refrigerate them (covered) for several hours or overnight before baking. This is a great option if you want freshly baked pies without the fuss on a busy day.

What if I don’t have a round cookie cutter?

No problem! Simply use an upside-down glass or even a small bowl to cut your rounds. The size might vary, but that’s part of the homey charm of this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe.

How can I make these hand pies vegan?

Substitute plant-based milk for the cream in the filling, skip the egg wash in favor of non-dairy milk, and use a vegan pie crust. You’ll still get a beautifully flaky and flavorful pie!

What’s the best way to add crunch or extra flavor?

Try mixing in chopped toasted pecans or even mini marshmallows into the filling before assembling. You can also sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar on top before baking for a satisfying sweetness and crunch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about making a batch of these golden, flaky treats. I hope you feel inspired to try this Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe—it’s truly a joy to bake, share, and, most importantly, eat! Gather your favorite people or enjoy a quiet moment with one of these cozy pies and let every bite remind you why homemade always wins.

Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe

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4.8 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 hand pies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Sweet Potato Hand Pies are a delightful fall dessert that combines a flaky crust with a spiced sweet potato filling. Perfect for a cozy treat or a festive gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling:

1 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and cooled)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk

Crust:

1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 rounds), thawed
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water

Optional Glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, vanilla, and heavy cream until smooth.
Prepare the crust: Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut out circles using a 4-inch round cutter.
Assemble the hand pies: Spoon sweet potato filling onto each round. Fold the dough over, crimp the edges, and brush with egg wash.
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
Optional glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the glaze. Drizzle over cooled hand pies.