Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup ice water (more if needed)
For the Sweet Potato Filling:
1 cup cooked sweet potato puree (from about 1 medium sweet potato)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 large egg (for egg wash)
For the Glaze (optional):
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Pie Crust:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. It should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the sweet potato puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and flour. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Hand Pies:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut out circles using a 4-inch round cutter (or any size you prefer).
Spoon a tablespoon of sweet potato filling onto the center of each dough circle.
Brush the edges of the dough with a little water, fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.
Transfer the hand pies to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Allow the hand pies to cool on a wire rack.
Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled hand pies.
Serve:
Enjoy your Sweet Potato Hand Pies warm or at room temperature. They make a delightful treat for any occasion!
These hand pies are perfect for snacking, serving at a gathering, or enjoying as a sweet end to a meal. The sweet potato filling combined with the flaky crust is a delicious and comforting combination!