why make this recipe
Pumpkin pasties are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with a fun, hand-held pastry. They are perfect for any gathering, be it a cozy night in or a festive occasion. Their delicious filling of pumpkin and spices brings comfort and joy to everyone who takes a bite.
Making pumpkin pasties from scratch is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Not only do they smell amazing while baking, but they also look beautiful on a plate. Plus, you can customize the spices according to your taste. If you’re a fan of pumpkin, you’ll love this easy recipe!
equipment needed for Pumpkin Pasties
To create your delicious pumpkin pasties, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- 5 1/4-inch circle cutter
- Pastry brush
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
What You Need to Make Pumpkin Pasties
- 1 pie dough recipe (or 1 box store-bought pie crust), add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon clove
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of kosher salt
How to Cook Pumpkin Pasties Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. Make sure to take the pie dough out from the refrigerator so it can warm up a little.
Next, in a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese and packed brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth. After that, add the pumpkin puree, two egg yolks, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, and kosher salt. Beat this mixture until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
Now, lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking. Roll out the pie dough to about ⅛ inch in thickness. Using a 5 1/4-inch circle cutter, cut out rounds of dough from the pie crust. You should aim to cut out around twelve circles. If you have dough scraps left, simply reroll them to create more circles.
In a small dish, make your egg wash by whisking together the egg and milk. Take a pastry brush and lightly brush this mixture onto the edge of half of the dough circles to help seal the pasties later.
Once you’ve prepared the dough, add about two tablespoons of the flavorful pumpkin filling in the middle of each dough circle. Carefully fold the circle in half to form a semi-circle, then crimp the edges to seal the filling inside. You can use either your fingers or a fork for this step. Make sure the entire seam is closed tightly to prevent any filling from leaking out. Place the pasty on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet as you continue with the remaining dough circles.
After you have assembled all the pasties, brush each one with the egg and milk mixture you prepared earlier. This will give your pasties a beautiful golden color when baked.
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-22 minutes, or until the bottoms of the pasties turn golden and they begin to crack slightly on top. Once baked, transfer them to a cooling rack and let them cool completely.
While the pasties are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a separate bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, two tablespoons of milk, vanilla, the remaining spices, and a pinch of salt. If you find your glaze is too thick, feel free to add a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency.
Once your pasties have cooled down, spoon the glaze over the top of each one and smooth it out gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Allow the glaze to set before you dig in and enjoy these delicious pumpkin pasties.
how to make Pumpkin Pasties
Making pumpkin pasties is fun and doesn’t take too much time. You start off by preparing your ingredients and equipment. Gather everything you need, and set up your workspace for smooth transitions between tasks.
Start with the pie dough, whether homemade or store-bought, and prep it to include that delicious cinnamon flavor. Next, pay attention to the filling, mixing the cream cheese, brown sugar, and pumpkin puree. Ensure every ingredient is mixed well so that the spices blend beautifully.
Once your dough and filling are ready, you will cut out the dough circles and fill them with that flavorful pumpkin mixture. With careful folding and sealing, you’ll create little pockets of joy. Baking them is the final touch, and once baked, the heavenly aromas will fill your kitchen.
how to serve Pumpkin Pasties
Pumpkin pasties are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a few simple touches. Serve them warm for the best experience, as the filling will be creamy and comforting. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top can add a wonderful presentation.
You may want to pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm pastry and the cold creaminess can be simply irresistible. Not only do they taste great, but they also look lovely on a dessert table.
For an autumn-themed gathering, consider placing them on a festive plate surrounded by mini pumpkins or seasonal decorations. This not only makes a delightful treat but also adds to the holiday spirit and ambiance.
what to serve with Pumpkin Pasties
A variety of beverages complement pumpkin pasties well, enhancing the overall experience. Warm apple cider or a spiced chai latte can match the warm spices within the pastries perfectly. If you’re looking for something more refreshing, consider a light herbal tea.
For a more robust option, coffee pairs wonderfully as well. You could serve these pasties alongside a small cheese or charcuterie board, adding elements such as aged cheeses or cured meats to balance the sweetness of the pasties.
If you want a full dessert spread, consider adding other fall-themed treats like caramel apples, pumpkin spice cookies, or pecan pie. This way, you create a memorable dessert selection that celebrates the flavors of the season.
how to store Pumpkin Pasties
To keep your pumpkin pasties fresh, you can store them in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, they can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days.
For longer storage, it’s best to refrigerate them. Place the pasties in the fridge, where they can last up to five days. When ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their flaky texture.
If you wish to store them for an extended time, freezing is a great option. Ensure the pasties are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you want a treat, reheat directly from the freezer or thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up.
tips to make Pumpkin Pasties
When making pumpkin pasties, there are a few tips to help you achieve the best results. Always ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the cream cheese. It mixes more smoothly this way.
Take your time when rolling out the dough. An even thickness helps ensure that everything bakes consistently. If the dough becomes too warm while working, refrigerate it for a few minutes before continuing.
Be careful not to overfill the pasties, as this can cause them to burst during baking. A good rule of thumb is to use about two tablespoons of filling per circle. Lastly, don’t skip the egg wash! It makes a significant difference in the appearance and taste.
variation
Feel free to play with the recipe! You can adjust the spices for a different flavor profile. For those who enjoy a sweeter crust, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough for a more dessert-like pastry.
If you’re in the mood for something healthier, substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to lighten the filling. You could also add nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the filling for extra crunch.
Another fun variation is to incorporate chocolate by adding chocolate chips to the pumpkin mixture, creating a delicious pumpkin-chocolate fusion. The possibilities are endless, making pumpkin pasties a versatile recipe you can adapt to suit your taste.
best time to make Pumpkin Pasties
Pumpkin pasties are particularly delightful to make during the fall season, especially around Halloween and Thanksgiving. With the aromas of spices wafting through your home, they bring warmth and comfort to cooler days.
They are also a great addition to any autumn-themed parties or gatherings. These pasties are perfect for cozy nights spent with family or friends, making them an ideal snack or dessert option throughout the season.
However, pumpkin pasties can be enjoyed year-round. The comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices are delicious at any time, so don’t hesitate to make them outside of the fall months when you’re craving a tasty treat.
common mistakes to avoid
While making pumpkin pasties is fairly straightforward, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. One mistake is not properly sealing the edges of the pastry, which may cause the filling to leak during baking.
Another common error is overworking the dough, which can result in a tough texture instead of a flaky one. When rolling it out, be gentle and work quickly to keep it at the right temperature.
Make sure not to skip the egg wash, as it helps promote browning. Also, avoid crowding the baking sheet, as this can lead to uneven baking. Spacing the pasties apart allows for even heat circulation in the oven.
nutritional notes
Pumpkin pasties can be a delightful treat, but it’s good to remember they are best enjoyed in moderation. They provide some nutritional benefits, thanks to pumpkin’s high fiber and vitamin content.
Using whole-grain pie dough can add extra nutrients and fiber. While the sweet filling and glaze may add some sugar, balance your dessert with healthy meals throughout the day.
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your dietary preferences. There are many ways to make pumpkin pasties a little lighter while keeping them delicious.
FAQs
Can I make pumpkin pasties ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and dough in advance. Assemble the pasties and keep them in the fridge for a day ahead or freeze them before baking.
Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin?
Absolutely! If you have fresh pumpkin, you can roast and puree it for your filling. Just make sure it’s smooth and similar in consistency to canned pumpkin puree.
How do I know when the pasties are done?
Pumpkin pasties are done when they are golden brown on the bottoms and just starting to crack on the top. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
conclusion
Pumpkin pasties are a fun, comforting treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their flaky crust and warm pumpkin filling, they capture the essence of fall beautifully. Whether you’re making them for a special gathering or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to delight.
By following the steps and tips detailed above, you can create your own perfect pumpkin pasties at home. Enjoy the process and share them with loved ones for a truly delicious experience.
For the pastry
- 1 recipe pie dough recipe (or 1 box store-bought pie crust), add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough You can use homemade or store-bought pie crust.
For the filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 can 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon clove
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
For the egg wash and glaze
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk For the glaze
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of kosher salt
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Take the pie dough out from the refrigerator to warm up.
In a large bowl, add softened cream cheese and brown sugar. Beat until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, egg yolks, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, and kosher salt. Beat until well combined.
Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the pie dough to about ⅛ inch in thickness. Cut out about twelve 5 1/4-inch rounds of dough.
Make the egg wash by whisking together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture onto the edge of half of the dough circles.
Assembly
Add about two tablespoons of filling in the middle of each dough circle. Fold in half and crimp the edges to seal.
Place each pasty on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the tops with the egg wash.
Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden and they begin to crack slightly on top.
Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely.
Glazing
In a bowl, whisk together the confectioners' sugar, two tablespoons of milk, vanilla, remaining spices, and a pinch of salt. Spoon glaze over cooled pasties and allow to set before serving.
Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.
