Last updated on October 16, 2025
Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies
Ah, Halloween! The time when the air turns crisp, pumpkins pop up on porches, and the smell of baked goodies fills our kitchens. I still remember the joy of gathering with friends in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, crafting festive treats while laughing at our silly costume mishaps. Among those nostalgic memories, Halloween hand pies made their special appearance—a creative way to celebrate the season and satisfy our cravings. Today, I’ll show you how to make delightful Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies that are as easy to whip up as they are fun to share. No matter if you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe is stress-free and totally doable, even if it’s your first time tackling pastry!
Why I Love This Recipe of Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies
These Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies hold a special place in my heart for several reasons. First and foremost, they’re a beautiful blend of flavors. The creamy ricotta and rich cream cheese pair perfectly with the vibrant sun-dried tomato pesto, while the spinach adds a touch of earthiness that rounds everything out.
But more than just taste, this recipe is about creating warmth and joy in the kitchen. As a beginner cook, I appreciate its simplicity—just a few manageable steps that anyone can follow. You can adapt it to suit your taste: feel free to throw in other vegetables, or change the pesto for a twist on flavor! Plus, they’re perfect for serving at gatherings, adding a festive flair to your holiday table.
You’ll find this recipe not only brightens up the spooky season but also transforms a classic hand pie into something whimsical, making it perfect for family fun or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies
For these delightful hand pies, here are the essentials you will need:
- 50g baby spinach: Fresh spinach adds a delicate, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the filling.
- 100g ricotta: Creamy and rich, ricotta gives the filling a luxurious texture.
- 100g full fat cream cheese: Adds a smooth, creamy consistency that balances well with the rest of the ingredients.
- 100g sun-dried tomato pesto: This flavorful paste enriches the filling with a savory depth.
- 2 x 320g sheets ready rolled shortcrust pastry: These save time and effort when crafting your pies.
- 1 free-range egg, beaten: Acts as a wonderful glaze and helps seal the pies.
- Plain flour, for dusting: Keep your work surface tidy and your pastry from sticking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of your filling.
Optional Add-Ons
If you want to customize your hand pies, consider some of these options:
- Cheese Variations: Try a blend of feta or goat cheese for added tang.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh basil or a touch of garlic powder can enhance flavor.
- Vegetables: Finely chopped bell peppers or olives can add a different twist.
Substitutions and Shortcuts
- Gluten-Free Pastry: If you prefer a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pastry option to make this dish inclusive.
- Store-Bought Pesto: Instead of making your own, using store-bought pesto can save time without sacrificing flavor.
How to Make Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies Step-by-Step
Now, let’s dive into the delightful process of crafting your Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies! This step-by-step guide will help you achieve those flaky, golden-crusted treats with ease.
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (or 200°C for fan ovens) or Gas Mark 7. This will ensure that your pies bake evenly and achieve that lovely golden color.
Prepare Your Baking Trays: Line two flat baking trays with baking paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup much easier.
Wilt the Spinach: Take your baby spinach and place it in a large bowl. Pour over boiling water until the spinach is submerged. Let it sit for about 2 minutes. This quick blanching helps to soften the spinach and retain its bright green color.
Drain and Cool: After 2 minutes, carefully drain the spinach in a colander. Allow it to cool slightly before handling it. Once cool enough, squeeze out any excess water—this will prevent your filling from becoming too soggy.
Mix the Filling: Transfer the wilted spinach into a mixing bowl. Add the ricotta, cream cheese, and sun-dried tomato pesto. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until evenly combined. Season with a pinch of salt and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set this delightful mixture aside.
Prepare the Pastry: Roll out your ready-rolled shortcrust pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide each sheet into six equal squares, giving you a total of 12 pastry squares.
Create Pumpkin Faces: Choose one of the pastry squares and cut out a pumpkin shape to use as a template. Carefully trace around this shape on the rest of the squares. For half of the pumpkin cutouts, cut out mouth and eye shapes to create a cute jack-o’-lantern effect.
Fill the Pies: Take one plain pumpkin-shaped pastry square and spoon 2 tablespoons of the ricotta filling onto the center, leaving approximately a 1cm border around the edges. Brush this border with the beaten egg, which will help seal the edges and give a beautiful finish.
Top with Faces: Place one of the cut pumpkin face shapes on top of your filled pastry. Gently press down the edges to seal. For a decorative touch, use a fork to crimp the edges together.
Repeat: Continue this process until all squares are assembled into pies. You can roll out any scraps of pastry to make a couple more pies, ensuring you get the most out of your ingredients.
Brush and Bake: Place the completed pies on your prepared baking trays. Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg for a lovely golden finish. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden brown.
Cool Before Serving: Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the trays before transferring to a wire rack. This step helps them firm up a bit.
And there you have it! Your Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies are now ready to delight your family and friends.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies
Overfilling the Pies
One common mistake is overfilling the pies. While it’s tempting to add extra filling, too much can lead to messy spills during baking. Stick to the suggested amount—2 tablespoons is perfect for achieving that ideal balance.
Not Sealing the Edges Well
Another issue is not sealing the edges of the pastry well enough. If the edges aren’t secure, the filling could ooze out or create a mess in the oven. Be sure to crimp with a fork or use your fingers to press firmly so they hold their shape.
Skipping the Cooling Step
Don’t rush to serve the pies straight out of the oven! Allowing them to cool slightly helps to avoid burns and allows the filling to set, making them easier to eat and enjoy.
Forgetting to Adjust Baking Time
Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your pies in the last few minutes of baking. If they seem to be browning too quickly, it could be a sign to reduce the temperature slightly or remove them early to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions for Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies
With a Festive Dipping Sauce
Serve your hand pies with a delightful dipping sauce for added flavor! A simple homemade marinara or garlic aioli complements the savory filling wonderfully, providing a new layer of taste.
A Side of Seasonal Salad
Pair your hand pies with a fresh side salad. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta can brighten the meal and balance the richness of the pies.
Personalize with Additional Toppings
Consider offering toppings for guests to personalize their pies. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crushed red pepper can add a special touch to the flavor.
Create a Snack Board
Arrange your hand pies on a delightful snack board alongside other Halloween treats. Add some sliced veggies, hummus, and fruits for a colorful and festive display that’s sure to impress!
Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready
Experiment with Fillings
Once you feel comfortable with the basic recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings! Consider seasonal veggies like roasted butternut squash or mushrooms for a new twist. Your creativity can lead to delicious results!
Play with Presentation
For an added Halloween flair, consider using cookie cutters to shape your hand pies into different spooky shapes beyond pumpkins, like bats or ghosts—perfect for impressing little ones at your Halloween gathering.
Batch Cooking
These hand pies freeze wonderfully. Prepare a double batch and freeze the unbaked pies. When you’re in need of a quick meal or last-minute entertaining, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time!
Embrace Leftovers
If you have filling leftover, try stuffing it into bell peppers or incorporating it into a savory pasta dish. No waste, just deliciousness!
Conclusion & Next Steps
Making Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies doesn’t have to be a daunting task. As you’ve learned, it’s easier than it looks! You can customize the fillings and shapes, making it a versatile recipe for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners. And the best part? These hand pies are approved for beginners, which means anyone can enjoy the warm, delicious flavors of homemade treats.
So, why not give it a try? Roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the comforting experience of baking these festive hand pies that are as delicious as they are charming.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share your experiences. I’d love to hear your variations and festive traditions! Now, let’s get cooking!
FAQs About Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies
1. Can I make Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pies in advance and either refrigerate them for a day or freeze them for up to two months. Bake them straight from the freezer, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. What kind of spinach should I use for Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies?
I recommend using fresh baby spinach for the best flavor and texture. However, if you only have regular spinach, just make sure to chop it finely after cooking.
3. How do I store leftover Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the pastry.
4. Can I use other types of pastry for this recipe?
Absolutely! Puff pastry or gluten-free pastry can be used in place of shortcrust pastry. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture.
5. How can I make my Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies spicier?
For some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes into the filling or incorporating diced jalapeños for a zesty twist. Adjust to your preference!
Now you’re all set to create these delightful Pesto and Spinach Halloween Hand Pies! Enjoy every bite and the cozy memories you’ll create along the way.
