🎃 Get ready to cast a delicious spell this Halloween with these adorable mini pumpkin pies! 🎃
As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves begin to turn, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen. Every year, as I prepare for Halloween, I find myself drawn to creating treats that are both delicious and delightfully spooky. These mini pumpkin pies with Jack O’Lantern faces have become a beloved tradition in my home, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you!
A Bewitching Treat for All Skill Levels
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you! The beauty of these mini pies lies in their simplicity and the joy they bring to both creators and devourers alike. Plus, serving them as individual portions makes them ideal for Halloween parties or a cozy night in with your favorite ghouls and goblins.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add chilled butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add ice water until dough comes together.
- Divide dough in half, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Create the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, condensed milk, eggs, and spices until smooth.
- Assemble the Pies:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out one half of the dough and cut circles to fit your mini pie tins.
- Press dough into tins and trim edges.
- Fill each crust with pumpkin mixture.
- Craft Jack O’Lantern Faces:
- Roll out remaining dough and use small cookie cutters or a knife to create eyes, noses, and mouths.
- Gently place these cut-outs on top of the filled pies to form Jack O’Lantern faces.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is set.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips for Pumpkin Spice Perfection
To achieve that quintessential fall flavor, balance is key! Our combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves creates a warm, comforting taste that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of allspice or a dash of vanilla extract to your filling.
Serving Your Spooky Creations
Present your mini pies on a rustic wooden board or a black platter for a truly haunting display. For an extra touch of Halloween magic, sprinkle some edible glitter or dust with powdered sugar “cobwebs” just before serving.
Wrap Up Your Halloween Baking Adventure
There you have it, my fellow Halloween enthusiasts! These mini pumpkin pies with Jack O’Lantern faces are sure to be the star of your spooky season celebrations. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also a fantastic way to get the whole family involved in some Halloween baking fun.
So, don your apron, summon your inner pastry chef, and let’s create some pumpkin pie magic together! Don’t forget to share your creepy-cute creations on social media using #HalloweenPumpkinPies – I’d love to see how your Jack O’Lantern faces turn out!
Happy baking, and may your Halloween be filled with all things deliciously spooky! 🎃👻🦇
