As I rolled out the pastry, the anticipation grew—October’s chill in the air makes Halloween baking an exhilarating adventure. These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are not only the perfect festive treat but also a fun way to engage kids and adults alike in the kitchen. Bursting with juicy blueberries and encased in flaky, gluten-free pastry, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that will leave everyone asking for more. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, ensuring that you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the spooktacular festivities. Are you ready to conjure up a little magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this ghoulishly good recipe!
Why Are These Hand Pies So Irresistible?
Unique presentation: Shaped like adorable ghosts, these pies are perfect for Halloween parties and will impress your guests.
Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can create this delightful dessert without any fuss, ideal for beginner bakers.
Bursting with flavor: Each bite reveals a juicy blueberry filling complemented by a zesty lemon glaze that adds a refreshing twist.
Versatile filling: Feel free to swap out blueberries for seasonal fruits like raspberries or strawberries, offering endless variations for any occasion! For more festive options, check out our guide to Halloween treats.
Family fun: Involve the kids in the process—cutting shapes and decorating the pies turns baking into a memorable family activity.
Make-ahead option: Prepare these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies a day ahead, letting you enjoy the festivities without last-minute stress.
Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry – Use Jus-Roll vegan & gluten-free puff pastry sheets for a perfectly flaky base.
For the Filling
• Fresh/Frozen Blueberries (100g) – The natural sweetness of blueberries is the star of this treat; frozen can be swapped if fresh aren’t on hand.
• Caster/Granulated Sugar (50g + extra for sprinkling) – Sweetens both the filling and adds a lovely sparkle on top.
• Cornstarch/Cornflour (2 tablespoons) – Thickens the filling for that desired jam-like consistency.
• Lemon Juice (2 teaspoons) – Brightens the flavor by adding a zesty acidity.
For the Glaze
• Icing Sugar (50g) – Essential for creating a light and sweet lemon glaze to drizzle on top.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
Step 1: Prep Pastry
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (fan) and lining two baking trays with grease-proof paper. Unroll the Jus-Roll vegan and gluten-free puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface, and use a rolling pin to flatten them slightly. Aim for an even thickness to ensure a perfect, flaky texture for your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.
Step 2: Cut Shapes
Using a ghost-shaped cookie cutter, cut out ghost shapes from the puff pastry. For each ghost shape, create cute faces on half of them using a smaller cutter or knife. Once the shapes are cut, place them on a baking tray and refrigerate for 5 minutes to firm up, which will help maintain their form while baking.
Step 3: Make Filling
In a small saucepan, combine 100g of fresh or frozen blueberries, 50g of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously and cook for about 5–8 minutes, or until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. Remove from heat and let your blueberry filling cool while you prepare for assembly.
Step 4: Assemble Pies
On one ghost shape, spoon a small amount of the cooled blueberry filling, ensuring you don’t overfill, as this could lead to leaks. Lightly wet the edges of the pastry with a bit of water before placing a ghost shape with a face on top. Press down gently and crimp the edges with a fork to seal in all that delicious filling for your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies.
Step 5: Bake
Brush the tops of each assembled pie with a splash of dairy-free milk to enhance browning, and sprinkle a little extra sugar on top for a touch of sweetness. Bake in your preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until the pastries turn a beautiful golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they puff up and look irresistibly flaky.
Step 6: Glaze & Cool
Once baked, remove the Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare a simple lemon glaze by mixing 50g of icing sugar with a bit of lemon juice. Drizzle the glaze over the pies and allow it to set before serving, adding an extra touch of sweetness to these ghoulish delights.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare and assemble the pies up to 24 hours in advance by simply refrigerating them after assembly. To do this, follow the recipe up until the baking step; then, cover the assembled pies with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and pop them in straight from the fridge, brushing them with dairy-free milk and sprinkling sugar as directed. This way, you’ll have fresh, delicious hand pies ready to enjoy with minimal effort, making your Halloween festivities smoother and more enjoyable!
What to Serve with Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
These charming pastries are sure to steal the show, so let’s create a feast that enhances their delightful flavors!
- Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vegan ice cream complements the blueberry filling beautifully, adding a delightful chill to the warm hand pies.
- Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea can balance the sweetness and bring warmth to your Halloween gathering.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can add a vibrant contrast, brightening up your dessert table with seasonal fruits.
- Hummus & Veggies: Serve alongside crunchy vegetable sticks and a savory hummus for a savory bite that pairs surprisingly well with sweet pastries.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Drizzle whipped coconut cream on top for an indulgent touch that brings decadence without compromising on vegan principles.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, spiced apple cider enhances the cozy atmospheric of your Halloween festivities, making the pies even more delightful!
- Pumpkin Spice Cake: Pair with a slice of moist pumpkin spice cake to embrace the fall flavors and create a perfect dessert ensemble for your gathering.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate the pies for a truly indulgent dessert experience.
- Dairy-Free Milkshake: Create a quick, delectable milkshake with almond milk and vanilla that provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hand pies’ sweetness.
- Festive Cocktails: A light, fruity Halloween cocktail can be a fun addition, offering a dash of sparkle that keeps the party spirit alive!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
Fridge: Store your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies in an airtight container for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pies for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen at 180°C for an additional 5–7 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Best Enjoyed Fresh: For the best taste and texture, these hand pies are best consumed fresh but can be made ahead for convenience!
Variations & Substitutions for Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
Unlock a world of delightful possibilities with these spooktacular pastries that can cater to various tastes and dietary needs!
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Berry Blend: Combine blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for a vibrant, mixed berry flavor.
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Sweetness Swap: Substitute regular sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a unique sweetness that complements the fruit.
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Gluten-Free Option: If you’re looking for a gluten-free pastry alternative, try using a homemade almond flour pastry for a nuttier flavor.
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Pie Filling Hack: Use store-bought blueberry pie filling for a quicker option without compromising flavor; it’s a time-saver for busy bakers.
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Zesty Twist: Add a hint of orange zest to the blueberry filling for a refreshing citrus note that elevates the overall flavor profile.
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Choco-Lover’s Dream: Drizzle with melted dairy-free chocolate for an enticing twist, adding a rich taste to each ghostly bite.
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Nutty Addition: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
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Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the blueberry filling for an unexpected, flavorful surprise.
Feel free to explore these variations, and if you’re craving more Halloween-themed ideas, check out our guide to Halloween treats for even more festive inspiration!
Expert Tips for Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies
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Cupcake Trick: Always use a cookie cutter larger than the filling mound to avoid overfilling, which can lead to messy leaks while baking.
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cut pastry shapes for at least 5 minutes before baking. This helps to maintain their ghostly form and encourages better puff.
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Perfectly Thicked Filling: Make sure the filling reaches a thick, jam-like consistency to prevent it from oozing out during baking—stir consistently over medium heat.
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Golden Finish: Brush the tops with dairy-free milk for a glossy finish and sprinkle extra sugar before baking. This ensures a golden color and a sweet crust.
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Oven Check: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your pies to achieve that beautiful flaky texture and the perfect golden-brown hue.
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Serving Style: For an elevated presentation, pair these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies with a scoop of vegan ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
What kind of puff pastry should I use?
Absolutely! It’s best to use Jus-Roll vegan & gluten-free puff pastry sheets for these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies. This ensures the right flakiness and structure while keeping everything plant-based and delicious.
How do I store the hand pies properly?
For optimal freshness, store your Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This way, they retain their delightful flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the assembled pies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked assembled pies for up to 3 months! Just place them on a baking tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven to 180°C and bake directly from frozen for an additional 5–7 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy.
What should I do if the filling leaks out while baking?
If you’re facing leaking issues, ensure your filling is thick enough before assembly. The cornstarch helps with this, but avoid overfilling the pies as well—keeping a mound smaller than the cookie cutter edge can prevent spills. If leaks do happen, I recommend placing a baking sheet below the baking tray to catch any drips.
Are these hand pies safe for pets?
While the Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are made from safe ingredients for humans, always keep them away from pets. Ingredients like sugar can be harmful to animals in large amounts. Keep this delicious treat as a special snack for your Halloween gathering!
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, using the recommended Jus-Roll puff pastry ensures these Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies are both vegan and gluten-free! If you have further dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the sugar or other sweeteners as needed, but check labels to ensure they’re free from allergens.
Vegan Blueberry Ghost Hand Pies That Are Spooktacularly Delicious
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan) and line two baking trays with grease-proof paper. Unroll the Jus-Roll vegan and gluten-free puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface, and use a rolling pin to flatten them slightly.
- Using a ghost-shaped cookie cutter, cut out ghost shapes from the puff pastry. Create faces on half of them using a smaller cutter or knife. Place them on a baking tray and refrigerate for 5 minutes to firm up.
- In a small saucepan, combine 100g of blueberries, 50g of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and 2 teaspoons of lemon juice over medium heat. Cook for about 5–8 minutes until it thickens to a jam-like consistency. Cool the filling.
- On one ghost shape, spoon the cooled blueberry filling, wet the edges of the pastry with water, and place another ghost shape on top. Press down gently and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Brush the tops of each pie with dairy-free milk and sprinkle with extra sugar. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from the oven and cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Prepare a lemon glaze by mixing 50g of icing sugar with lemon juice. Drizzle over the pies and allow to set before serving.
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