Pumpkin and Herb Hand Pies – Cozy, Savory, and Perfectly Portable

There’s something incredibly comforting about warm, flaky hand pies fresh out of the oven. This easy homemade pumpkin and herb hand pies recipe is one of my favorite autumn traditions, inspired by a chilly afternoon when I needed a quick snack that felt both rustic and elegant. The combination of creamy pumpkin, aromatic herbs, and a buttery crust creates a savory bite that works beautifully for gatherings, lunch boxes, or cozy evenings at home.
These little pies are simple to prepare, wonderfully flavorful, and made with pantry-friendly ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch or prepping snacks for the week, this recipe brings seasonal comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
6–7 tablespoons ice water
1 egg (for brushing the tops)

For the Pumpkin & Herb Filling

1 ½ cups pumpkin purée
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
¼ cup ricotta or cream cheese (optional for creaminess)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Add the ice water gradually, mixing until a dough begins to form.
Bring the dough together with your hands, shape into a disc, wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

Warm the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
Add the pumpkin purée and mix well.
Remove from heat and fold in the parsley and ricotta/cream cheese if using. Let the mixture cool.

Assemble the Hand Pies

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
Roll out the chilled dough on a flour-dusted surface to about 3 mm thick.
Cut round or rectangular pieces (about 10–12 cm wide).
Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each piece.
Fold the dough over, press edges with a fork to seal.
Brush the tops with beaten egg.
Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Bake

Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

Add cheese: Fold in grated mozzarella or cheddar for extra richness.
Make them spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for heat.
Use sweet potato: Swap the pumpkin for mashed sweet potato for a deeper, earthier flavor.
Go dairy-free: Omit ricotta/cream cheese and add an extra tablespoon of olive oil to keep the filling creamy.
Change the herbs: Try sage or oregano for a different aromatic profile.

Storing & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store the cooled hand pies in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked pies for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
Reheating: Warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 8–10 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp and prevents sogginess.
For quick reheating, use an air fryer for 5–6 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and assemble them, then refrigerate for 24 hours or freeze until baking.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Absolutely—just choose a gluten-free all-purpose blend with xanthan gum for best texture.

Can I bake them without eggs?

Yes. Replace the egg wash with a little milk or cream to help the crust brown.

Can I make them bigger for a full meal?

Yes! Simply cut larger dough rounds and bake a few extra minutes until golden.

Nutritional Information (per hand pie)

Approximate values:

Calories: 235
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 27 g
Fat: 12 g

These pumpkin and herb hand pies are the perfect mix of comforting flavors, flaky pastry, and easy preparation. Whether you’re baking them for a fall celebration, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a warm savory snack, they always deliver.
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment, share your photos, or explore more of my cozy, seasonal recipes. Happy baking!