As the autumn leaves cascade and the air grows crisp, I find myself drawn to the kitchen, eager to whip up treats that capture the spirit of the season. This Halloween, I could not resist creating these charming Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies, the perfect blend of spooky and scrumptious! Not only do they feature a delightful blueberry filling that’s naturally sweet, but they’re also quick to make and entirely dairy-free, making them suitable for all your festive guests. Plus, the playful ghost shape adds a fun twist that will impress everyone at your Halloween gathering. Curious about how to bring these enchanting pastries to life? Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!
Why Are These Ghost Hand Pies Perfect?
Delightful: Each bite of Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies brings a pop of juicy blueberry flavor, paired with a sweet citrus glaze that’s irresistible.
Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, these pies come together in no time—even if you’re a busy chef!
Vegan & Gluten-Free: Perfect for all your guests, these hand pies suit dietary restrictions and ensure nobody misses out on the spooky fun.
Festive Presentation: Their ghostly shape adds an element of charm to your Halloween dessert table, making them a conversation starter.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch things up with different fruits or glazes, tailoring them to your tastes. You can even try these with my Easy Vegan Puff Pastry for a speedier option!
Blueberry Ghost Hand Pie Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry – Use vegan & gluten-free varieties for a flaky base perfect for these ghost hand pies.
For the Filling
• Fresh/Frozen Blueberries (100g) – These are the star ingredient, providing natural sweetness; feel free to substitute with other berries.
• Caster/Granulated Sugar (50g) – Sweetens the filling; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Cornstarch/Cornflour (2 tablespoons) – Helps thicken the blueberry mixture; tapioca starch works well as an alternative.
• Lemon Juice (2 teaspoons) – Brightens the flavor of the filling; lime juice is a good substitute.
For the Glaze
• Icing Sugar (50g) – This is essential for the sweet lemon glaze; powdered coconut sugar makes it healthier if you prefer.
• Dairy-Free Milk – A brush of this will give your pies a golden finish; use any plant-based variety you enjoy.
These delicious Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are not only a treat for the taste buds but a delight for the eyes, warming the spirits of everyone at your Halloween gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan). This ensures even baking for your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies, creating that perfect, flaky texture. While the oven heats, prepare your baking trays by lining them with greaseproof paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Unroll your vegan and gluten-free puff pastry sheets on a clean surface. Flatten them gently with a rolling pin to ensure even thickness, which helps with a uniform bake. After rolling, use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter to cut out as many shapes as possible; reserve the cut-out pieces for the pie tops that will feature fun ghostly faces.
Step 3: Chill the Pastry
Once your ghost shapes are cut, place them onto a platter lined with parchment. Pop them in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes. Chilling the cut pastries makes them easier to handle and helps them maintain their shape while baking.
Step 4: Make the Blueberry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine 100g fresh or frozen blueberries, 50g sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently. Watch as the mixture thickens in about 5 to 8 minutes, creating a luscious blueberry filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Hand Pies
Carefully spoon the blueberry filling onto the center of each bottom ghost shape. Brush the edges with a little water, which helps seal the pies tightly. Place the top ghost shapes over the filling, ensuring they line up nicely and create that signature ghostly appearance.
Step 6: Crimp the Edges
Using a fork, crimp the edges of the Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. This little step also adds a decorative touch, making your hand pies look even more festive and appealing.
Step 7: Brush and Sprinkle
To achieve a golden, shiny finish, brush the tops of the assembled hand pies with dairy-free milk. Then, sprinkle a touch of sugar over each pie to enhance their flavor and sweetness while baking. This step adds a charming sparkle to your ghostly treats.
Step 8: Bake the Pies
Place the baking trays in your preheated oven and let the Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies bake for about 15 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and flaky when done. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the trays.
Step 9: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
While the pies cool, whisk together 50g icing sugar and a splash of lemon juice in a small bowl. The glaze should be smooth and pourable. This sweet finish will tie together the delightful flavors of your Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.
Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Once the hand pies have cooled slightly, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow it to set before serving. These charming treats are ready to enchant your guests at any Halloween gathering, bringing a delightful twist to the table!
How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Keep hand pies at room temperature for up to 1 day if you enjoy them fresh out of the oven. Place them in a dry location to maintain their flaky texture.
Fridge: Store the pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Allow them to come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: If baked previously, you can reheat the hand pies in a 180°C oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Variations
Customize your Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies to take these delightful treats to the next level and cater to your taste buds!
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Berry Medley: Replace the blueberries with a medley of raspberries and blackberries for a colorful twist. This adds both visual interest and a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness perfectly.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of a lemon glaze, melt some dark dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled hand pies for a luxurious touch. This rich flavor is sure to satisfy any chocolate lover!
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Cinnamon Sugar: Mix a bit of cinnamon with your sugar to sprinkle on top before baking. This warm spice will bring a delightful aroma and cozy flavor to your ghostly treats.
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Add Some Spice: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the blueberry filling. This unexpected heat will surprise and delight those who take a bite—perfect for the adventurous eaters at your Halloween gathering!
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Alternative Glaze: Substitute the lemon glaze with an orange glaze made from icing sugar and orange juice for a refreshing citrusy twist. The bright color and flavor will make your ghosts stand out on the dessert table.
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Puff Pastry Shortcut: If you’re short on time, use store-bought blueberry pie filling as a filling shortcut. It saves time without compromising on flavor, perfect for those last-minute party preparations!
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Nutty Crunch: Consider folding in some chopped nuts into your blueberry filling for a delightful crunch. Almonds or pecans can add a rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the filling.
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Festive Faces: Use leftover pastry scraps to create fun ghostly faces on the tops of your hand pies. A couple of chocolate chips can serve as eyes for a truly spooky presentation—perfect for engaging the kids’ imaginations!
Add a bit of your own creativity to these Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies and let your personal touch shine! If you’re interested in other creative pastry ideas, don’t miss my recommendations for Easy Vegan Puff Pastry that will make your baking even more enjoyable!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive fun with less stress! You can prepare the ghost shapes and even chill them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For an even longer option, assemble the pies and freeze them for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen pies directly in the oven without thawing, increasing the bake time by a few minutes. With these easy make-ahead options, you can serve up deliciously spooky treats with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
Delight your guests with complementary dishes that elevate your spooky dessert experience.
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Warm Apple Cider: The comforting spices and sweetness of warm cider perfectly balance the tartness of the blueberry pies, enhancing the seasonal vibe.
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Pumpkin Soup: This creamy, velvety soup offers a cozy contrast to the flaky hand pies, making for a wonderfully hearty meal to accompany your dessert.
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Vegan Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy vegan cheeses adds a savory note to your gathering, contrasting beautifully with the sweet and tangy filling of the hand pies.
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Spiced Nuts: A bowl of mixed spiced nuts provides a crunchy and salty crunch that complements the soft texture of the ghost hand pies, creating delightful flavor contrasts.
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Ghoulishly Green Smoothie: Blend spinach, banana, and almond milk for a fresh drink that’s both nutritious and Halloween-themed, providing a refreshing aspect to your dessert table.
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Candied Pumpkin Seeds: These crunchy, sweet snacks are not only easy to make but also add a festive touch that resonates with the Halloween spirit.
Let these pairings take your Halloween celebrations to delicious new heights!
Expert Tips for Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
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Mind the Filling: Avoid overfilling the hand pies, as this can cause them to leak during baking. A spoonful is usually just right.
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Perfect Sealing: Dip your fork in flour before crimping the edges to ensure a better seal and prevent any blueberry filling from escaping.
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Batch Baking: Bake in batches if needed to guarantee even puffing and browning, resulting in perfectly flaky Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies every time.
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Chill for Success: Remember to chill the cut pastry shapes before baking; this keeps them crisp and in shape while they cook.
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Creative Expressions: Get playful with the top pie shapes; use extra pastry scraps to create fun designs or faces for a truly ghostly touch!
Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What kind of puff pastry should I use for the Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose vegan and gluten-free puff pastry varieties. Look for brands that specifically state they’re suitable for vegan diets, ensuring no dairy or eggs are included. I often recommend checking the label for “non-hydrogenated” ingredients for a healthier option.
How should I store my Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?
To maintain their delightful texture, store the hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. If you want to enjoy them later, place them in the fridge for 1-2 days. Let them sit at room temperature before serving for the best flavor and softness—trust me, it makes a difference!
Can I freeze the Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?
Certainly! You can prepare and freeze the unbaked Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies for convenient treats later on. To do this, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer, adding about 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
What if my filling is too runny?
No worries! If you find your blueberry filling is too runny, try adding an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture while it’s cooking to help thicken it. Stir well as it heats, which should solve the issue in about 5 minutes. Additionally, ensure you cook the filling until it’s thickened before assembling the hand pies.
Can dogs eat the Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?
Very! Blueberries are safe for dogs in moderation, but be cautious with the sugar and any other ingredients. Avoid giving them the pastry crust as it’s not suitable for their diet. Stick to plain blueberries for a delicious treat that your furry friends will love!
What if I have a berry allergy?
If you have a berry allergy, no problem at all! You can substitute the blueberries with other fruits like apples or pears. Just make sure to adjust the sugar and cornstarch amounts to match the sweetness and juiciness of the fruit you’re using. Peaches or plums would also create a fantastic filling—get creative!
Delicious Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies for Spooky Celebrations
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan) and prepare your baking trays with greaseproof paper.
- Unroll the vegan and gluten-free puff pastry and flatten it gently. Cut out ghost shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Chill the cut ghost shapes in the refrigerator for about 5 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens.
- Spoon the blueberry filling onto the center of each bottom ghost shape and seal with top ghost shapes.
- Crimp the edges with a fork to seal and prevent filling leaks.
- Brush the tops of assembled hand pies with dairy-free milk and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown.
- While pies cool, whisk together icing sugar and lemon juice for the glaze.
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled hand pies before serving.