Easy Pumpkin Empanadas (Sweet Fall Hand Pies)
These flaky and sweet Pumpkin Empanadas are the perfect fall dessert! Filled with a warm spiced pumpkin mixture and baked to golden perfection, these handheld pies are ideal for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving, or cozy weekends. Use homemade dough or save time with store-bought pie crust!
Ingredients
For the Homemade Empanada Dough (or use store-bought pie crust for convenience):
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 large egg
¼ cup cold water
1 teaspoon white or apple cider vinegar
For the Spiced Pumpkin Filling:
1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For Topping:
1 beaten egg (for egg wash)
2 tablespoons sugar mixed with ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Make the Flaky Empanada Dough (if using homemade):
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fingers until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg, cold water, and vinegar. Add to flour mix and gently mix until a dough forms. Divide in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Sweet Pumpkin Filling:
In a small saucepan, combine pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Simmer over low heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened. Let cool.
3. Assemble the Pumpkin Empanadas:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll dough to 1/8-inch thick and cut into 4-inch circles. Add 1 tablespoon of filling to each circle. Fold into half-moons and seal edges by pressing with a fork.
4. Bake to Golden Perfection:
Place on the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Delicious warm or at room temperature
Add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce
Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or Mexican atole for a festive fall treat
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days
Reheat in the oven for that freshly baked texture
