Name: Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies – Spooky Sweet Treats!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 43 min
Ingredients: 1 package Vegan puff pastry (Use JusRoll vegan & gluten-free sheets for best results.); 2 cups Fresh blueberries (Frozen can be used if needed.); 1/2 cup Caster/Granulated sugar (Sweeten to taste; alternatives are also acceptable.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch/Cornflour (Substitute with tapioca starch if preferred.); 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (Fresh enhances the flavor.); 1 cup Icing sugar (Combine with lemon juice for glaze.); 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (Use fresh for the glaze.)

As the crisp autumn air sweeps in and Halloween approaches, I find myself craving treats that capture the spirit of the season. These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are not only adorable but also a fantastic way to indulge without the guilt. With their flaky crust and a luscious blueberry filling, they’re perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying during cozy nights in. Best of all, these pastries are quick to whip up and completely dairy-free and gluten-free, making them a wonderful option for all your friends. Imagine biting into a flaky ghost-shaped pie drizzled with tangy lemon glaze, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and zest. Are you ready to embrace this spooky baking adventure? Let’s dive into creating these charming treats together!

Why are these hand pies a must-try?

Uniqueness: These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are a captivating blend of fun and flavor that adds whimsy to any gathering.

Flaky Delight: The puff pastry provides a perfectly flaky texture that contrasts beautifully with the blueberry filling, making each bite a treat.

Quick and Simple: Even novice bakers can succeed with this simple recipe—great for spontaneous Halloween get-togethers or cozy evenings!

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with fillings; swap blueberries for your favorite fruit to create unique ghostly pastries.

Health-Conscious Treat: Completely vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, these pies ensure everyone can indulge without compromising their dietary choices.

Don’t forget to check out more of our fun Halloween recipes to keep the festive spirit alive!

Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pie Ingredients

• A delightful mix for spooky treats!

For the Pastry

Puff Pastry – Use JusRoll vegan & gluten-free sheets for a flaky texture that’s perfect for hand pies.

For the Filling

Blueberries – Fresh berries are ideal for the filling, but frozen can work in a pinch for these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.
Caster/Granulated Sugar – Sweeten your mixture to taste; alternative sweeteners can also be used if desired.
Cornstarch/Cornflour – This thickens the filling; feel free to substitute with tapioca starch if you need a different option.
Lemon Juice – Fresh juice enhances the flavor of your filling and glaze, contributing a bright zing to your pies.

For the Glaze

Icing Sugar – Combine with lemon juice for a tangy glaze; powdered coconut sugar can be a healthier alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan). Line two baking trays with grease-proof paper to prevent sticking. This setup will ensure a smooth baking process for your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to make the next steps more efficient.

Step 2: Roll Out the Pastry
Unroll the vegan and gluten-free puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Gently flatten the pastry with a rolling pin if needed, ensuring an even thickness. Use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter to cut out your pie shapes, and remember to save the scraps for more.

Step 3: Create Faces
On half of the ghost-shaped pastry cutouts, use a small piping nozzle to cut out eyes and mouths. This adds a playful touch to your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. Once decorated, place these pieces in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to ensure they retain their shape when baked.

Step 4: Cook the Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh or thawed blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, stirring gently until the filling thickens and bubbles. The vibrant blueberry mixture should become luscious and shiny—remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 5: Assemble the Hand Pies
Take the ghost shapes without faces and spoon a generous amount of the blueberry filling into the center. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause leakage while baking. Brush the edges of the pastry shapes with a little water to help seal them, then top with the ghost cutouts that have faces, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 6: Seal and Prepare for Baking
Using a fork, crimp the edges of each pie to create a decorative seal and ensure the filling stays inside. Brush the tops with a splash of dairy-free milk for a golden finish, then sprinkle a little sugar on top to add sweetness. These steps make your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies both cute and delicious!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled hand pies in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and flaky. Watch closely as they bake; the puffs will rise beautifully. Once done, allow them to cool on the baking trays for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the pies cool, mix together the icing sugar with lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. This tangy glaze will drizzle wonderfully over your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. Once the pies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over each one, allowing it to set before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ghost shapes and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before assembling and baking. Simply follow the instructions to cut out the shapes and create the faces, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The blueberry filling can be made up to 3 days in advance; just cool it completely and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, spoon the chilled filling onto the pastry shapes, seal them, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy these delightful treats with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Fridge: Keep your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days. This retains their delightful flakiness and helps maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the hand pies before baking. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 180°C (fan) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and warmed through. This makes the pastry perfectly crisp once more!

Thawing: If pre-baked, let the hand pies thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat directly in the oven to revive their flaky goodness.

What to Serve with Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

As you prepare to treat your loved ones to these whimsical pastries, consider delightful accompaniments to enhance the experience.

Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, festive drink complements the sweetness of the blueberry filling, offering a cozy autumn vibe. Perfect for sipping alongside your hand pies!
Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla or coconut ice cream creates a delicious contrast to the flaky pastries and adds a refreshing element to your Halloween gathering.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette provides a crisp, fresh counterbalance to the sweet, flaky hand pies. Its vibrant colors will brighten your table!
Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai tea pair beautifully with the tangy lemon glaze, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for sharing stories around the table.
Pumpkin Soup: A creamy vegan pumpkin soup will introduce a savory note, making for a satisfying meal when served alongside these ghostly delights.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Indulge in the sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries for a fun, fruity dessert that contrasts nicely with your hand pies’ flavors.

Bring these pairings to life at your next gathering to celebrate the joy of homemade treats and make every bite unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking; this helps achieve the best flaky texture in your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.
Avoid Overfilling: Be mindful not to overfill your hand pies to prevent leakage. A generous spoonful of filling is perfect!
Chill the Pastry: Allow the puff pastry to chill in the refrigerator before baking for optimal puffing and to maintain their shape.
Fresh Vs. Frozen: If using frozen blueberries, make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture. This keeps the filling from becoming too watery.
Creative Faces: Get playful with the ghost designs! Vary the shapes and sizes of eyes and mouths to create unique characters for your hand pies.

Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Variations

Get creative with these charming ghostly pastries and let your imagination run wild!

Fruit Swaps: Substitute blueberries with your preferred fruit like sliced apples or cherries for a fun flavor twist. Each filling brings its own character, making these pies uniquely delightful!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the blueberry filling for a warm, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for fall. This subtle spice will elevate your hand pies into comforting treats.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the glazed pies for an indulgent touch. The sweetness of chocolate pairs beautifully with the tangy blueberries, creating a decadent duo.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate ground almonds or crushed walnuts into the filling for added texture. This slight crunch enhances every bite, giving your hand pies a delightful surprise.
Lemon Zest Boost: Add lemon zest to both the filling and glaze for a more vibrant citrus flavor. This extra zing will make the pastries pop, brightening up the spooky experience!
Gluten-Free Options: If you desire a different base, try making gluten-free puff pastry from scratch. This ensures all ingredients are to your liking while maintaining that flaky texture.
Savory Twist: For a not-so-sweet version, fill with sautéed mushrooms and vegan cream cheese. This savory alternative makes for a unique appetizer that’s sure to impress!
Extra Shapes: Experiment with other spooky shapes like bats or pumpkins using similar techniques and fillings—let’s make this Halloween even more festive!

Dive deeper into your baking adventures with these ideas for your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies!

Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe blueberries for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting blueberries, look for plump berries with a deep blue color and a natural bloom (a silvery-white coating). Avoid any berries with green or red spots, as they may be under-ripe. Fresh berries should feel firm upon pressing, not mushy, and should be fragrant. If you’re opting for frozen blueberries, choose high-quality brands that do not contain added sugars.

How should I store my Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?
To retain their delightful flakiness, store your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. If you’d like, you can place a thin sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to warm them up and refresh their crispness.

Can I freeze these hand pies? How do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies for up to 2 months! To freeze, assemble the pies (but don’t bake them yet). Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and place all wrapped pies in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake them, you can bake directly from frozen for about 20-25 minutes at 180°C (fan) until golden and heated through.

What if my filling is too runny?
Very good question! If your filling ends up too runny, try simmering it for a few more minutes on the stove while stirring until it thickens. You can also add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water during cooking to help absorb excess moisture. Ensure you let the filling cool down before spooning it onto the pastry, as it thickens more as it cools.

Are these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This recipe is entirely gluten-free thanks to the use of JusRoll vegan & gluten-free puff pastry. However, it’s essential to ensure that all other ingredients, such as sugar and cornstarch, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy these spooky treats without any worries about gluten!