As the leaves turn crisp and the air grows chill, it’s the perfect time for a delightful kitchen adventure—one that brings laughter and joy to your table. Enter the Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies, a mischievous twist on comfort food that will have everyone grinning from ear to ear. With quick prep and a playful presentation, these golden, flaky pies hide a savory filling of chorizo, minced pork, and melted cheese, making them an irresistible crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can whip them up ahead of time for an easy snack or festive treat. Curious how you can make this Halloween a little more delicious? Let’s dive into this fun recipe that’s sure to brighten your season!
Why are Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies a must-try?
Irresistible Flavors: These hand pies are packed with a bold blend of chorizo, minced pork, and melted cheese, creating a savory explosion with every bite. Fun Presentation: Shaped like playful pumpkins, they are perfect for entertaining and bring a festive touch to your Halloween table. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even beginner cooks can impress loved ones with these spooky treats! Freeze-Friendly: Prep a batch ahead of time, and you’ll have delicious snacks ready to go whenever the craving strikes. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a party or a cozy family dinner, these charming little pies are sure to delight guests of all ages. Get creative and explore more fun fall recipes like our Chili Cheese Cornbread Muffins or Pumpkin Spice Cookies!
Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to bring these festive pies to life!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – 16 oz (4 cups), preferably chilled for a flaky crust.
- Sea salt – 1 teaspoon to enhance flavor.
- Unsalted butter – 170 g (6 oz, 1 ½ sticks), chilled and cubed for the perfect dough texture.
- Chilled water – ½ cup, plus 2-3 tablespoon more if necessary to create a pliable dough.
- Egg – 1, for binding and richness.
- Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice – 1 tsp, helps tenderize the dough.
For the Filling
- Ground chorizo – 255 g (9 oz) adds that spicy, smoky flavor that defines these pies.
- Minced pork – 285 g (10 oz), or substitute with beef, chicken, or turkey for versatility.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon for a hint of smokiness.
- Onion – ½, finely chopped to bring a savory depth.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, finely chopped, because garlic makes everything better!
- Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon (optional) for an extra kick if desired.
- Salt – to taste, ensuring all flavors shine.
For the Cheesy Goodness
- Oaxaca cheese – 170 g (about 6 oz, 1 ½ cups), shredded, for a deliciously melty texture.
- Manchego cheese – 170 g (about 6 oz, 1 ½ cups), shredded, for a rich, nutty flavor that complements the filling.
For Assembly
- Room temperature water – to seal the pie edges securely.
- Egg – for egg wash, helping your pies achieve a lovely golden color.
Now you have all the ingredients for your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies! Get ready to have fun creating these tasty, festive treats that are sure to impress everyone!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, whisk together the chilled all-purpose flour and sea salt until well combined. Next, rub in the cubed unsalted butter using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with some pea-sized chunks visible. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky texture in your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix ¼ cup of chilled water with the apple cider vinegar and egg, whisking until fully combined. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the wet ingredients. Stir gently until incorporated, adding more water, one tablespoon at a time, if necessary to bring the dough together into a workable mass.
Step 3: Knead and Chill the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Flatten it into a rectangle, then fold it into thirds, repeating this folding process once more. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow it to rest and firm up, ensuring a perfect flaky crust for your hand pies.
Step 4: Cook the Filling
While the dough chills, heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, incorporate the ground chorizo, minced pork, paprika, garlic, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt, stirring frequently. Cook the filling for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat is thoroughly cooked and fragrant. Allow the mixture to cool before assembling your pies.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare Baking Tray
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This preparation ensures your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies bake evenly and come out golden brown. Set the tray aside while you roll out the dough.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and place it on a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to about 3 mm thick, ensuring it's even throughout. Cut out pumpkin shapes using a 4-inch cookie cutter, creating enough pieces to form both bases and tops for your hand pies—approximately 30 pieces.
Step 7: Create Faces for the Pies
Using smaller cutters or a knife, create fun eyes and mouths on half of the pumpkin-shaped cutouts to add personality to your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies. Ensure that the uncut shapes will serve as the bases, while the cutouts will act as playful tops that enrich the festive theme.
Step 8: Assemble the Pies
On each uncut pumpkin shape, sprinkle shredded Oaxaca and Manchego cheese, then add a generous scoop of cooled chorizo filling. Moisten the edges with a little room temperature water, then gently top with a face-shaped cutout, pressing down to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure your delicious filling doesn't escape during baking.
Step 9: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat an egg to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of your assembled Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies with the egg wash, ensuring they’ll develop a lovely golden-brown color as they bake. This step adds a mouthwatering sheen that will make your pies even more inviting.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Place the prepared hand pies on the lined baking tray and bake them in your preheated oven for 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and remove them once they are golden brown and puffed up. Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle, revealing the delightful chorizo filling inside.
Variations & Substitutions for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Feel free to get creative with your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies and make them uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to keep the texture light and flaky.
- Dairy-Free: Use chilled coconut oil in place of butter and vegan cheese blends for the filling, ensuring all guests can enjoy.
- Vegetarian: Replace chorizo and minced pork with finely chopped mushrooms and black beans, spicing up with smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
Imagine savoring a plant-based filling that still delivers on bold taste! It’s a fantastic twist that honors the spirit of the recipe.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add finely chopped jalapeños to the filling for an extra fiery bite that spice lovers will adore!
- Cheesecake Filling: Swap out savory filling for a sweet cream cheese mixture blended with pumpkin and spices for a dessert version, perfect for fall gatherings.
Picture a delightful surprise when biting into these sweet and creamy hand pies, perfect alongside a warm cup of apple cider!
- Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling to brighten up the flavors and add a fresh touch.
- Savory Sauce: Serve with a smoky chipotle sauce or zesty salsa for dipping, enhancing the flavor experience and adding a fun element to your presentation.
Elevate your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies with these enticing variations that will keep everyone guessing. And once you’ve got your inspired creations, why not pair them with Chili Cheese Cornbread Muffins or enjoy dessert with some Pumpkin Spice Cookies? The options are deliciously endless!
Expert Tips for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
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Chill Your Ingredients: Always use chilled butter and water for the dough. This helps create that flaky texture that makes these Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies so irresistible.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: After combining the ingredients, knead just until smooth. Overworking can lead to tough pies, losing that delightful flakiness!
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Cool the Filling: Ensure your chorizo filling has cooled before filling the pies. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy and helps maintain crispy edges.
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Sealing Wisely: Moisten edges with room temperature water, and crimp securely with a fork. Proper sealing avoids filling leaks while baking.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your pies as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. Remove them once they are golden brown for the best texture.
Enjoy every bite of these delicious Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies!
What to Serve with Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Create a festive feast that tantalizes the taste buds while complementing the scrumptious flavors of your hand pies.
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Crispy Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the pies.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet, caramelized bites of roasted sweet potatoes contrast beautifully with the savory chorizo, creating a comforting harmony.
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Spicy Salsa Verde: This vibrant salsa, with its zesty kick, will enhance the flavor profile of your pies and bring a lively zest to every bite.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: Silky avocado dip not only adds creaminess but also a delightful coolness that complements the spice of the chorizo filling.
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Festive Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides a cozy backdrop for your hand pies, echoing the flavors of fall and Halloween.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with melted cheese and garlic is an irresistible side, perfect for dipping into any leftover filling or salsa.
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Cranberry Mimosas: This festive cocktail combines cranberry juice and bubbly for a sweet yet tart drink that pairs perfectly with everything on your holiday table.
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Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes: End your meal on a sweet note with these delightful mini cheesecakes that embody fall flavors and balance the savory of the pies.
These pairing ideas not only complement your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies but will ensure your gathering is filled with deliciously memorable moments!
Make Ahead Options
These Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies are perfect for busy weeknights and holiday gatherings! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking the chorizo and minced pork mixture and letting it cool before refrigerating. The dough can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours—just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and quality. When you're ready to serve, roll out the dough, assemble the hand pies, and bake them fresh. This way, you'll enjoy that just-baked flavor with minimal effort while impressing your family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Fridge: Store leftover Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes for the best texture.
Freezer: Place fully cooled hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer to a sealable freezer bag, where they can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen hand pies, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through and golden. This method ensures they remain crispy and delicious!
Avoid Sogginess: When freezing, make sure they’re completely cooled to prevent condensation and sogginess during storage.
Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! For your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies, when selecting onions, look for ones that are firm and free of soft spots. Fresh garlic should feel plump and slightly firm, and chorizo should have a vivid red color with no signs of discoloration. This ensures your pies will have the best flavor!
How should I store leftover Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies?
Very good question! Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Enjoy them warm and delicious!
Can I freeze Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your fully cooled hand pies on a baking sheet in a single layer for about 1-2 hours. This gives them a quick freeze, so they won’t stick together. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealable freezer bag and label it with the date. They will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky to handle?
No worries! If your dough feels too sticky while rolling it out, dust your work surface with a little extra flour to prevent it from sticking. Just remember, resist the urge to overwork the dough, as this can create tough pies. A light touch goes a long way in achieving that perfect flakiness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the ground pork in the filling with other meats like turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, you could use a mix of mushrooms and beans with seasonings to mimic the flavor of the meat. Just be mindful of any cheese allergies, as both Oaxaca and Manchego contain dairy.
How can I make the pies extra spooky?
For a spookier presentation, you can use a knife to carve fun designs into the pumpkin tops or add food-safe dyes to the dough for colorful variations. This playful touch is sure to be a hit at any Halloween gathering!
Deliciously Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies for Halloween Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together the chilled all-purpose flour and sea salt until well combined. Rub in the cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, mix ¼ cup of chilled water with apple cider vinegar and egg. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the wet ingredients. Stir gently, adding more water if necessary to form a workable dough.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped onion until softened, then incorporate ground chorizo, minced pork, paprika, garlic, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Allow the filling to cool before assembling your pies.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out chilled dough to about 3 mm thick and cut out pumpkin shapes. Create fun faces on half of the shapes.
- Assemble the pies by placing cheese and filling on uncut shapes, then topping with cutouts. Seal the edges with water and crimp with a fork.
- Brush with egg wash and bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.
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