Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Perfectly Spooky Treat
![- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup solid coconut oil - 1/4 cup pure maple syrup - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 3-4 tablespoons cold water - 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries - 2 tablespoons cornstarch - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Powdered sugar (for dusting) - Black food coloring (optional, for ghost eyes and mouth) Each ingredient plays a special role in making these hand pies. The all-purpose flour forms the dough base. Coconut oil adds richness and makes the crust flaky. Maple syrup sweetens the dough without refined sugar. Salt enhances flavors and balances sweetness. Cold water helps bind the dough. Blueberries are the star of the filling. They bring natural sweetness and a burst of flavor. Cornstarch thickens the filling, keeping it from being too runny. Lemon juice adds brightness and a slight tang. Vanilla extract deepens the sweet notes. Finally, powdered sugar gives a spooky touch when dusted on top. If you need to replace an ingredient, here are some ideas. Use vegan butter instead of coconut oil for a different taste. For a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Maple syrup can be replaced with agave nectar if needed. If you want a nut-free version, make sure your ingredients are certified nut-free. Check for allergens in store-bought items, especially if using powdered sugar. With these simple swaps, you can still enjoy these spooky treats! To start, gather your ingredients. You will need flour, salt, coconut oil, maple syrup, and water. In a big bowl, mix the flour and salt well. Add solid coconut oil. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Now, pour in the maple syrup. Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time. Mix until the dough forms a ball. Wrap it in plastic and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. For the filling, combine blueberries, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a small pot. Cook this mix over medium heat. Stir gently until the blueberries burst and it thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool down to room temperature. Next, lightly flour a clean surface. Roll out the dough until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter, about 4 inches wide, to cut out circles. You need enough to make 8 hand pies. Place about one tablespoon of blueberry filling in the center of half the circles. Lightly brush the edges with cold water. Place the other circles on top and press gently to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges so the filling does not leak out. Now, it’s baking time! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the hand pies on it. Make sure to leave space between each pie. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and the edges are a bit crisp. Once baked, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust them with powdered sugar before serving for a ghostly touch. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. Enjoy your spooky treats! To seal your hand pies well, start with cold dough. When you roll it out, keep it chilled. After cutting your dough into circles, place a spoonful of filling in the center. Brush the edges with cold water to help them stick. Gently fold the dough over the filling and press down on the edges. Use a fork to crimp the edges tightly. This keeps the filling from leaking during baking. Adding a spooky touch to your ghost hand pies is easy. After sealing, use black food coloring to make ghostly faces. Dip a toothpick into the coloring and draw eyes and a mouth on each pie. This fun touch makes your pies look great for Halloween. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a ghostly effect. If you want to change the sweetness, you can add more maple syrup. Just remember, too much can make the dough sticky. For a tart flavor, add more lemon juice to the filling. You could also spice it up with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Taste your filling before sealing the pies. You can adjust the flavor to your liking, making it just right for you. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can switch up the filling in these hand pies. For a fall twist, try pumpkin. Mix canned pumpkin with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This will give a warm, cozy flavor. If you prefer something fruity, choose apples. Cook diced apples with sugar and cinnamon until soft. This makes a sweet and tangy filling. Both options are easy and fun. If you need a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for one that works well for baking. Make sure it has xanthan gum for structure. You can also use almond flour or oat flour. Adjust the liquid in your dough as gluten-free flour may absorb more moisture. Make these hand pies pop with fun presentation ideas. Use a spooky plate with Halloween designs. Arrange the pies like a ghostly gathering. Consider adding fresh fruits or spooky decorations. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a ghostly look. You might even add edible glitter for some shine. Get creative and make them visually appealing! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above! After enjoying your spooky treats, store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. Freezing your hand pies is a great way to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat your hand pies to enjoy their warm, flaky goodness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hand pies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This makes them crispy again. You can also use a microwave, but the texture may not be as nice. Enjoy your spooky delights! Don’t forget to check the full recipe for more tips! Yes, you can make these hand pies ahead of time. Prepare the dough and filling in advance. Store the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can keep the filling in an airtight container for the same time. Just remember to assemble and bake them when you are ready to serve. If you want to skip coconut oil, you can use vegan butter. It gives a nice flavor and helps the dough stay soft. You can also try other oils like sunflower or canola oil, but the texture may change slightly. To make the filling thicker, simply add more cornstarch. Start with an extra teaspoon and stir it well as you cook the blueberries. The heat will help it thicken. If you want a fruitier taste, you can also mash some of the blueberries. Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! They work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind they may release more juice while cooking. This can make the filling a bit runnier. Use a little more cornstarch to help thicken the mixture if needed. In this post, we covered how to make tasty vegan blueberry ghost hand pies. I shared the ingredients you need, their roles, and some clever substitutions. You learned the step-by-step process, from dough to baking, plus tips for sealing and decorating. I also offered fun variations and storage advice. Remember, cooking is about experimenting and having fun. Enjoy making these spooky treats!](https://meltedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/37782324-dd36-453e-a913-d3bc51efaec0.webp)
Get ready for a spooky treat that everyone will love! These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are not just cute; they’re delicious and easy to make. With a flaky crust …
Chef Miles
Halloween Harvest Hash Chex Mix Festive and Crunchy Treat
Get ready to celebrate Halloween with a fun twist: Halloween Harvest Hash Chex Mix! This crunchy treat combines savory and sweet elements, making it perfect for parties or cozy nights …
Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas Quick and Easy Recipe
Craving a quick and tasty meal? Look no further! My Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas recipe delivers all the cheesy, pepperoni goodness you love in a fun, handheld form. In just a …
Pumpkin Chip Banana Bread Irresistible Flavor Fix
Do you love the warm, cozy flavors of fall? Then you’ll adore my Pumpkin Chip Banana Bread! This tasty treat blends ripe bananas with pumpkin and chocolate chips for a …
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls Fluffy and Flavorful
Get ready to elevate your bread game with my Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls! These rolls are fluffy, flavorful, and bursting with savory notes that make any meal special. I’ll …
Bloomin’ Grilled Apples Flavorful and Fun Treat
Get ready to impress your family and friends with Bloomin’ Grilled Apples! This fun and flavorful treat takes simple ingredients and turns them into a delicious dessert. From juicy apples …
Pumpkin Rolls Delightful and Easy Baking Recipe
Are you ready to enjoy a warm, sweet treat this fall? My delightful pumpkin rolls recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients like canned …
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups Tasty and Simple Dessert Recipe
Looking for a sweet treat that’s easy to make? These Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups are perfect! You’ll enjoy a creamy pumpkin filling in a flaky crust—simple and delicious. Whether you’re …
Empanadas with Cheese Delicious and Simple Recipe
![Dough Ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced - 1/4 cup cold water Cheese Filling Ingredients: - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese - 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor: - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for a hint of spice The dough is simple yet essential. It gives the empanadas their crisp, flaky texture. Using cold butter helps keep the dough light. The filling is where the magic happens. The blend of mozzarella and feta creates a creamy, rich taste. The green onions add a fresh crunch. If you like a bit of heat, the chili flakes can spice things up. This recipe is flexible. You can swap cheeses or add veggies to make it your own. For the full recipe, check out the Cheesy Delight Empanadas. To make the dough, start by mixing the flour and salt in a bowl. Use your hands or a fork to blend well. Next, add cold, diced butter to the mixture. You want to break the butter into small pieces. Keep mixing until the dough looks like coarse crumbs. Now, slowly add cold water, mixing just until the dough sticks together. It should feel soft but not sticky. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the dough become firm and easier to roll out. In a new bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, crumbled feta, and chopped green onions. Mix well to ensure every bite has flavor. If you want some heat, add chili flakes to the mix. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly combined. This step is crucial, as it ensures every empanada is filled with cheesy goodness. Once your dough is chilled, take it out and roll it on a floured surface. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter or the edge of a small bowl to cut out circles. Each circle should be around 4 inches in diameter. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cheese filling onto each circle. Next, fold the dough over to make a half-moon shape. Press the edges tightly to seal. For extra flair, use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals them but also adds a nice touch. Before baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Place the filled empanadas on the sheet. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to puff up and turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as that’s when they are at their best. To avoid soggy dough, start with cold butter. Keep the butter in the fridge before use. Mix the butter into the flour until it looks like crumbs. This helps to create a flaky texture. For a crispy texture, don’t skip the egg wash. Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake them on parchment paper to prevent sticking. This helps the bottoms stay crisp while baking. To ensure even cooking, space your empanadas well on the baking sheet. Leave room for hot air to circulate. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for uniform heat. For dips, I love serving empanadas with salsa or guacamole. The fresh flavors really complement the cheesy filling. You can also try sour cream or a zesty yogurt dip. To present them at gatherings, arrange them on a large platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This adds color and makes the dish more inviting. When it comes to drinks, pair your empanadas with a light beer or a fruity soda. A crisp white wine also works well. These drinks enhance the flavors of the empanadas nicely. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} You can change up the cheese in your empanadas. Try using sharp cheddar for a tangy taste. Cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture. You can even mix different cheeses for more flavor. Adding vegetables will make your empanadas healthier. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms work well. They add nutrients and color to your dish. You can chop them finely and mix them in with the cheese. For heartier empanadas, consider adding proteins. Cooked chicken or ground beef makes them filling. You can also use beans for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to season the filling well. If you love spice, add chili flakes to your filling. This gives your empanadas a nice kick. You can also use jalapeños for more heat. Adjust the amount based on your taste. Herbs can enhance the aroma and flavor of your empanadas. Fresh parsley, cilantro, or oregano work wonders. Just chop them finely and mix them with the cheese. For dessert lovers, sweet empanadas are a treat. Use sweetened cream cheese or fruit fillings like berries. Dust them with powdered sugar after baking for a lovely finish. Enjoy experimenting with these variations! You can create endless flavors with your empanadas. For a full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your leftover empanadas fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freezing is the best method. To freeze empanadas, first let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. For reheating, the oven works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the empanadas on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last five minutes to crisp up the crust. Empanadas usually last in the fridge for about three days. Check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or mold. If you see either of these, it’s best to throw them away. To avoid waste, try to only make what you can eat in a few days. If you have extras, freezing is a great option. You’ll still enjoy their delicious taste later. Always remember to label your containers with the date, so you know when to use them. To make empanadas from scratch, you need to prepare both the dough and the filling. 1. Prepare the Dough: Start with 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix them in a bowl. Cut in 1/2 cup of cold, diced unsalted butter. The mixture should look like coarse crumbs. Gradually add 1/4 cup of cold water until the dough forms. Wrap it in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes. 2. Make the Filling: In another bowl, mix 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta. Add 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. If you like spice, add chili flakes. Mix well. 3. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Use a round cutter to make circles. 4. Fill the Empanadas: Place 1 tablespoon of filling in each circle. Fold the dough to make a half-moon. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork. 5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the empanadas with an egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Yes, you can use pre-made dough for empanadas. Pros: It saves time and effort. Store-bought dough can be very convenient, especially if you're in a hurry. Cons: The flavor might not be as fresh. Homemade dough often tastes better and allows for customization. You also have control over the thickness and texture. The best cheese for empanadas depends on flavor and texture. - Mozzarella: Mild and stretchy, it melts well. - Feta: Adds a tangy flavor and crumbly texture. - Cheddar: Sharp and flavorful, great for a richer taste. - Queso Blanco: Soft and creamy, perfect for a smooth filling. Mixing cheeses can create a unique flavor that enhances your empanadas. You can easily prep empanadas in advance for convenience. - Make and Freeze: Assemble the empanadas but do not bake. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. This way, you can bake them later. - Refrigerate: You can also store unbaked empanadas in the fridge. They will last for about a day or two. Make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. When you're ready to cook, just bake them from frozen or chilled. Follow the baking instructions from the Full Recipe for the best results. Empanadas with cheese are simple to make and fun to eat. We covered key ingredients for the dough and filling, along with optional flavors to try. I shared step-by-step instructions, from preparing the dough to baking. You learned tips for perfecting your empanadas and how to store leftovers. Explore different cheese options and flavor profiles to elevate your dish. With practice, you’ll create delicious empanadas that wow your family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this tasty treat!](https://meltedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/45600e30-694c-4690-8afa-513b31f0ee6a.webp)
Craving a cheesy treat? You’re in the right place! In this simple and delicious recipe for empanadas with cheese, I’ll guide you through every step. From preparing the perfect dough …
Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread Delight Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, sweet treat, you’ve found it! My Honey Butter Sweet Potato Cornbread combines the earthy taste of sweet potatoes with a hint of honey for pure …