Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

If you’re looking for a fun and festive treat to celebrate Halloween, look no further than these delightful Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. Not only are they spooky and scrumptious, but they also bring a smile to everyone’s face. Imagine pulling these little ghostly pastries out of the oven, their sweet blueberry filling oozing from flaky pastry—perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in with loved ones.

This recipe is one of my favorites because it combines simplicity with joy. Plus, you can easily whip them up on busy weeknights or make them ahead for your next Halloween bash. The kids will love helping out too—who wouldn’t want to create their own ghostly desserts?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these pies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike will enjoy shaping and decorating their ghostly creations.
• Delicious Flavor: The sweet blueberry filling perfectly complements the flaky crust, making each bite a treat.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling and cut out the shapes in advance for an easy assembly later.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Halloween or just a cozy fall day, these hand pies are always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather our supplies!

For the Pastry

• 2 sheets refrigerated pie crust

For the Filling

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
• Mini chocolate chips or black decorating gel (for eyes)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, which makes it even more fun! Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Use Different Fruits: Swap out blueberries for cherries or apples for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the egg wash with plant-based milk and skip the egg entirely.
• Add Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth in your filling.
• Change Up the Shape: Use different cookie cutters to create other shapes like pumpkins or bats.

How to Make Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your hand pies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a small saucepan, combine your blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat while stirring gently until the mixture thickens—about 5 minutes should do it! Let this delicious filling cool; it’s essential because hot filling can tear your pastry.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Next, roll out your pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Using a ghost-shaped cookie cutter, cut out an even number of ghost shapes. This step is so much fun as you start seeing those adorable ghosts take shape!

Step 4: Assemble Your Ghosts

Place half of your ghost shapes on a prepared baking sheet. Spoon a small amount of blueberry filling onto the center of each ghost. Top with the remaining shapes and press down firmly at the edges to seal them well. Crimping with a fork adds not only flair but also ensures no filling escapes during baking.

Step 5: Add Some Spookiness

Brush the tops of your hand pies with beaten egg to give them that lovely golden color when baked. Then sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra texture! Finally, use mini chocolate chips or black decorating gel to create playful eyes on each ghost.

Step 6: Bake and Enjoy!

Pop those adorable ghosts into the oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes until they are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving—trust me; they’re going to be irresistible!

And there you have it! Your very own Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are ready to impress all your friends and family. Enjoy every spooky bite!

Pro Tips for Making Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

These adorable ghost hand pies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delight to make! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your spooky creations turn out perfectly.

• Use chilled pie crusts: Starting with cold pie crusts helps maintain their flakiness during baking, ensuring a delightful texture in every bite.
• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to add lots of blueberry filling, overfilling can lead to messy hand pies. Stick to about a tablespoon of filling per pie to keep them neat and easy to eat.
• Seal edges well: A good seal prevents the filling from leaking out while baking. Press down firmly around the edges and crimp them with a fork for an added decorative touch.
• Experiment with shapes: If you don’t have a ghost-shaped cookie cutter, try using other Halloween-themed shapes like bats or pumpkins to mix things up and keep it fun!
• Let cool before serving: After baking, allow the hand pies to cool slightly. This not only makes them easier to handle but also lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Presenting your Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies in a festive way can make them even more enjoyable! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve these spooky treats at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a creamy contrast that complements the sweet blueberry filling.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint provide a pop of color and freshness that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin soup: A warm, comforting bowl of pumpkin soup pairs wonderfully with these sweet hand pies, adding a seasonal touch to your meal.
• Apple cider: Serving hot apple cider alongside offers a deliciously warming drink that evokes fall flavors and pairs nicely with dessert.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, nuts, and vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch that balances the sweetness of the hand pies.
• Cheese platter: An assortment of cheeses can enhance your dessert spread. Consider including mild options like brie or gouda that won’t overpower the blueberry flavor.

By following these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re sure to impress your friends and family with both the taste and presentation of your Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. Enjoy this festive treat and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat any time during the spooky season. Making them ahead of time can save you stress and ensure you have festive goodies ready for parties or family gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the hand pies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Prepare and assemble the hand pies, but do not bake them.
• Arrange the unbaked hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Transfer the frozen hand pies to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen hand pies, bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• If reheating refrigerated pies, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you with your Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies!

Can I use other fruits in my Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?

Yes! Feel free to substitute blueberries with other fruits like raspberries or cherries. Just adjust the sugar level based on the fruit’s sweetness.

How do I make the filling thicker for my Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?

If you prefer a thicker filling, simply increase the cornstarch by an extra teaspoon or two while cooking. This will give your filling a heartier texture.

Can I prepare Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies in advance?

Absolutely! You can make these ghostly treats ahead of time and either store them in the refrigerator or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.

What can I use instead of egg wash for my Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?

If you’re looking for an egg-free alternative, try brushing the tops with almond milk or a mixture of water and maple syrup for a beautiful golden finish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Halloween Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies as much as I do! They are not only adorable but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a spooky gathering with friends, these hand pies will surely bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and may your Halloween be filled with joy and sweet treats!