Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Have you ever wondered how to create a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually captivating? Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are the answer! These delightful pastries are perfect for Halloween or any festive occasion, combining the sweet, juicy flavor of blueberries with a playful ghostly design. But here’s the kicker: they’re entirely plant-based, making them suitable for everyone, including vegans and those with dairy allergies. In this post, we’ll explore how to make these charming hand pies, delve into their nutritional benefits, and provide tips to ensure your baking experience is a success.

Ingredients List

To whip up these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: For a flaky texture.
• ½ cup coconut oil: Solid, not melted, for a rich flavor.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar: To add sweetness without the graininess of granulated sugar.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor.
• 4-6 tablespoons cold water: Helps bind the dough together.

For the Blueberry Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries: Bursting with antioxidants and flavor.
• 1/4 cup maple syrup: Natural sweetness with a hint of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: To thicken the filling.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor.

For Decoration:

• Vegan icing or powdered sugar: For ghostly faces.
• Chocolate chips or raisins: For eyes.

Substitution Suggestions:

• Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier taste.
• Coconut oil: Vegan butter or margarine can be swapped in.
• Blueberries: Other berries like raspberries or blackberries can also work.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
2. Add the solid coconut oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Blueberry Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the blueberries, maple syrup, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring gently until the blueberries start to burst and the mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Use a round cutter (about 4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles.

Step 4: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Place a tablespoon of blueberry filling in the center of each dough circle.
2. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
3. Cut small slits in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Allow to cool before decorating.

Step 6: Decorate

1. Use vegan icing to draw ghost faces on each pie.
2. Place chocolate chips or raisins for eyes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	180
Protein	2g
Carbohydrates	25g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	8g
Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	7g

These hand pies are not only tasty but also provide a good source of fiber and antioxidants from the blueberries.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies even healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: This increases fiber content and adds nutrients.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut back on the maple syrup or use a sugar substitute like stevia.
• Add Chia Seeds: Incorporate chia seeds into the filling for added omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some creative serving ideas for your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies:

• Serve with Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of coconut or almond milk ice cream pairs beautifully with these pies.
• Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch.
• Accompany with Fresh Fruit: A side of fresh berries or a fruit salad enhances the dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls when making Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies and how to avoid them:

• Overworking the Dough: Handle the dough as little as possible to maintain flakiness.
• Filling Too Much: Avoid overfilling the pies, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Letting the filling cool slightly before assembling helps keep the dough from becoming soggy.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked hand pies for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispness.

Conclusion

In summary, Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are a delicious, fun, and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their delightful blueberry filling and charming ghostly design, they’re sure to impress. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments section or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these hand pies gluten-free?

A: Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q2: How can I make these pies less sweet?

A: Reduce the amount of maple syrup in the filling to suit your taste.

Q3: Can I use other fruits for the filling?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like apples, peaches, or mixed berries.