Name: Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies for Spooky Sweet Celebrations
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 58 min
Ingredients: 1 pack Jus-Rol vegan & gluten-free puff pastry; 2 cups Fresh or Frozen Blueberries (Frozen can be used directly without thawing); 1/2 cup Caster or Granulated Sugar (Granulated sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch or Cornflour (Can be replaced with arrowroot starch if desired); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh lemon juice is preferred); 1 cup Icing Sugar (Powdered sugar can be used if icing sugar is unavailable)

As the spooky season creeps in, I can’t help but catch a whiff of something enchanting in the air. Picture this: warm, flaky pastries that fit perfectly into the palm of your hand, ready to offer a delightful surprise inside. These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun and festive addition to your Halloween table! Made with fresh blueberries bursting with juicy goodness, each hand pie features a flaky, dairy-free puff pastry, and a drizzle of zesty lemon glaze that elevates each bite. What’s even better? They’re easy to whip up, making them an ideal healthy treat for a crowd or a cozy night in. Ready to unlock the magic of these delicious mini pastries? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Are These Hand Pies Irresistible?

Simplicity: With easy-to-follow steps, these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies require minimal baking skills, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.

Wholesome Goodness: Crafted with fresh blueberries, these hand pies are packed with antioxidants and deliciously sweet, making them a guilt-free treat.

Festive Fun: Shaped like spooky ghosts, they add a playful spirit to any Halloween gathering, ensuring they’ll be a hit with family and friends!

Versatile: Customize your filling with other fruits like raspberries or add a sprinkle of spices for unique flavor twists. You may also like to /Roll Banana Bread for a delightful snack!

Flaky Perfection: Enjoy the harmonious contrast of crispy pastry and warm, gooey filling, creating an unforgettable experience in every bite.

Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Ingredients

For the Pastry

Puff Pastry – Use Jus-Rol vegan & gluten-free sheets for a gluten-free option.

For the Filling

Fresh/Frozen Blueberries – Provides the filling with bursts of juiciness; frozen can be used directly without thawing.
Caster/Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the filling and topping; granulated sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
Cornstarch/Cornflour – Thickens the blueberry filling to create a jam-like consistency; can be replaced with arrowroot starch if desired.
Lemon Juice – Enhances flavor in the blueberry filling; fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best taste.

For the Glaze

Icing Sugar – Used for the sweet lemon glaze; powdered sugar can be used if icing sugar is unavailable.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven warms up, line two baking trays with grease-proof paper to prevent sticking. You’ll want to ensure your baking area is clean and organized, ready for the delightful assembly of your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.

Step 2: Shape the Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter to cut out as many ghost shapes as possible. For half of these, gently use a smaller cutter to create spooky faces. This will add charm to your pies, making them fun for Halloween.

Step 3: Chill the Shapes
Once cut, place the ghost-shaped pastry pieces onto the prepared baking trays and refrigerate them for about 5 minutes. Chilling helps the puff pastry maintain its structure while baking, promoting that desired flaky texture in your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.

Step 4: Make the Blueberry Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine fresh or frozen blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir gently and cook for 5-8 minutes until the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, and you’ll know it’s ready when it bubbles beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble the Hand Pies
Remove the pastry bases from the fridge and spoon a generous amount of the blueberry filling onto the uncut surfaces. Be sure to leave the edges clear! Next, lightly brush the edges with water to help seal them before placing a ghost shape with a face atop each filled base. Press down gently to secure.

Step 6: Seal the Edges
Use a fork to crimp the edges of each Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pie, ensuring they’re well-sealed. This step is essential to keep all that delicious filling inside while they bake. Take a moment to admire your spooky masterpieces as you prepare them for the oven!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Brush the tops of the hand pies with a splash of dairy-free milk and sprinkle with sugar for a touch of sweetness. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and flaky. You’ll know they’re done when they puff up and look invitingly crisp.

Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, transfer the Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies to a wire rack to cool down. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes, which will help the filling set. This cooling time is key for perfect texture and taste before the next step.

Step 9: Drizzle the Lemon Glaze
In a small bowl, mix icing sugar with lemon juice until a smooth glaze forms. Drizzle this tangy mixture over your cooled hand pies, creating a lovely finish. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving, adding an irresistible touch to your spooky treats.

Tips for the Best Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Avoid Overfilling: To prevent any leakage during baking, only fill the hand pies with a generous but controlled amount of blueberry filling.
Chill for Flakiness: Remember to refrigerate the shapes before baking. This helps the pastry maintain its crisp texture, giving you beautifully flaky Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.
Crimping Technique: Use a fork to crimp the edges securely. This not only seals the pies but adds a charming detail that makes your pastries even more appealing.
One Tray at a Time: For the best results, bake one tray at a time. This ensures each pie rises evenly and achieves that delightful flakiness you desire.
Watch the Color: Keep an eye on your hand pies as they bake. They should turn a lovely golden brown—this is a sign of perfect crust!

What to Serve with Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

These delightful pastries are a treat on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your spooky gathering into an unforgettable feast!

Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and vanilla sweetness wonderfully offset the tart blueberry filling, creating a blissful contrast in every bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds a vibrant touch to your dessert spread, balancing the rich flavors of the hand pies.
Spiced Hot Apple Cider: The warm, cinnamon-spiced notes complement the fruity essence of the hand pies, making every sip feel like a cozy fall evening.
Chai Tea: Its aromatic spices pair perfectly with the sweet, lemony glaze, providing a soothing warmth that enhances the festive atmosphere of your gathering.
Candied Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these delightful morsels offer a textural contrast to the soft hand pies while adding an extra layer of flavor to the table.
Lemonade Spritzer: A fizzy beverage with a hint of citrus creates a delightful and refreshing accompaniment, cleansing the palate between bites of those tempting ghostly treats.
Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: For added festivity, these rich and spiced cupcakes are a perfect sweet counterpart, anchoring the Halloween spirit in every delicious bite.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate over the hand pies allows for a decadent finish, enhancing the berry flavors while adding a chic touch.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during the busy Halloween season! You can prepare the blueberry filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, the ghost-shaped pastry can be cut and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling them. When ready to enjoy, simply fill the chilled pastry with the prepared filling, seal, and bake as directed. To maintain their flaky texture, be sure to keep the pastry cold until baking. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious hand pies ready with minimal effort!

Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and put your own spin on these delightful hand pies!

Other Fruits: Swap the blueberries for raspberries, strawberries, or even mixed berries for a vibrant twist. The flavors can surprise and charm your taste buds!
Spiced Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the filling for warmth and an extra layer of flavor. This cozy addition is perfect for the fall season.
Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of lemon glaze, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the cooled hand pies for a luxurious and indulgent treat. Who doesn’t love chocolate?
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or almonds into the blueberry filling for an added crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the soft pastry.
Zest Explosion: Enhance the glaze with orange zest instead of lemon for a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with blueberries!
Mini Variants: Make bite-sized versions of these hand pies by cutting out smaller shapes for fun party snacks—great for sharing or enjoying on-the-go!
Savory Twist: For a non-sweet version, fill with sautéed spinach and vegan cheese, creating a delightful savory hand pie perfect for brunch. You might also enjoy these with a side of creamy /Roll Banana Bread for a balanced meal!
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free puff pastry to make these hand pies accessible for everyone! Check for premium brands that deliver that glorious flaky texture.

Feel free to try any of these fun variations, and let your creative culinary instincts lead the way!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 day, tightly wrapped or in an airtight container.

Fridge: Place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Reheat briefly in the oven for a crispy texture before serving.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy them later, freeze the baked hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies, bake them directly from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe blueberries?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh blueberries, look for berries that are plump, firm, and a deep blue color. Avoid any that are shriveled or have dark spots all over, as these may be past their prime. If you opt for frozen blueberries, you can use them directly without thawing, which makes them a wonderfully convenient option!

How should I store leftover hand pies?
Very! If you have any leftover Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the best taste and texture, reheat them briefly in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-7 minutes before enjoying them again. This will help restore that delightful crispiness!

Can I freeze the Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies?
Of course! To freeze your hand pies, place the baked pastries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them directly from the freezer at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until they’re piping hot and crispy.

What should I do if the pastry gets soggy?
Very! If you notice your pastry might be too soggy, this can often happen due to overfilling or if the filling is too watery. To fix this, make sure to strain any excess liquid from the blueberry mixture before filling the pastries. Additionally, remember to chill your shaped pastry before baking; this will help maintain that flaky texture that everyone loves!

Are these hand pies suitable for those with allergies?
Absolutely! The Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are dairy-free, egg-free, and can easily be made gluten-free by using vegan & gluten-free puff pastry. If you’re concerned about other allergens, always check the ingredient labels on your puff pastry and other components. It’s thoughtful to consider using coconut sugar as an alternative for those avoiding refined sugars.

Can I customize the filling for these hand pies?
The more the merrier! These hand pies are incredibly versatile. You can substitute the blueberry filling with other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or mixed berries. For a unique flavor, feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling—a little experimentation can lead to delightful discoveries.