The aroma of sizzling chorizo wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy gatherings with friends and family. These Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies are the perfect blend of fun and flavor, making them an irresistible addition to any autumn feast. Not only are they a delightful crowd-pleaser, but they also provide a quick and satisfying way to kick your usual snacks up a notch. Each flaky, golden pastry is filled with spicy chorizo and two types of creamy cheese, ensuring every bite is a succulent surprise. As you carve playful pumpkin shapes into the dough, the anticipation builds for what’s about to come out of the oven. Ready to dive into a homemade treat that’s both easy to make and full of personality? Let’s turn your kitchen into a spooktacular paradise!
Why Are Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Amazing?
Unique Flavor: These hand pies deliver a heavenly blend of spicy chorizo and creamy cheese, making each bite a flavor explosion.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a Halloween party or a cozy family dinner, these fun treats are sure to impress and satisfy your crowd.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create memorable snacks without any fuss. It's the ultimate way to elevate your home cooking.
Customizable Delight: Don’t have chorizo? No problem! Feel free to swap in your favorite meat or vegetarian options to suit any palette.
Make-ahead Friendly: Prep these tasty hand pies ahead of time and freeze them for later. They bake wonderfully from frozen, making snacks available whenever cravings strike!
Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – Chilling the flour ensures a flaky crust.
• Sea salt – A little salt enhances the overall flavor of the pastries.
• Unsalted butter – Chilled cubes create a tender texture in the dough.
• Chilled water – Keeps the dough cool, making it easier to handle.
• Egg – Provides richness and helps bind the dough together.
• Apple cider vinegar – This adds a hint of tang and improves the dough's flakiness.
For the Filling
• Ground chorizo – The star ingredient that brings a spicy kick to the filling.
• Minced pork – Rich and juicy, this can be swapped for beef, chicken, or turkey.
• Paprika – Adds depth and a pop of color to the filling.
• Onion – Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of sweetness.
• Garlic cloves – Infuse the filling with aromatic goodness.
• Cayenne pepper (optional) – For an extra bit of heat if desired.
• Salt – Always adjust to taste for a balanced flavor.
For the Cheesy Delight
• Oaxaca cheese – Creamy and stretchy, it’s perfect for melting inside the pies.
• Manchego cheese – Brings a nutty flavor that complements the chorizo beautifully.
To Seal and Finish
• Room temperature water – To seal the pie edges securely, preventing any leaks during baking.
• Egg wash – Gives the hand pies a beautiful golden finish when baked.
Now that you have the ingredients for these Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies, let's get cooking and bring some festive fun to your table!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of chilled all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of sea salt until evenly combined. Next, add in 6 ounces of chilled and cubed unsalted butter, rubbing it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized chunks of butter remaining.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, mix together ½ cup of chilled water, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar until combined. Create a well in the flour mixture, then pour in the liquid mixture. With a fork or your fingers, gradually mix until combined, adding more chilled water as needed until the dough comes together.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
On a clean surface, turn out the dough and gently knead it into a ball, adding more water if it feels too dry. Once the dough is cohesive, flatten it into a rectangle shape. Fold it into thirds like a letter, then flatten again. Repeat this folding process two more times for a flaky texture.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Wrap the kneaded dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; this chilling process is essential for a flaky crust later on. While the dough chills, prepare the filling to make the most of your time.
Step 5: Cook the Filling
Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until they are softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Next, add 9 ounces of ground chorizo and 10 ounces of minced pork, breaking up the meat with a spatula. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
Step 6: Season and Cool the Filling
Once the meat is browned, stir in 1 teaspoon of paprika, 3 finely chopped garlic cloves, optional ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to meld, then remove from heat. Transfer the filling to a bowl and refrigerate it to cool while you preheat the oven.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. This is the perfect time to gather all your tools, including a rolling pin and a cookie cutter, to prepare for assembling the Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies.
Step 8: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it's about 3 mm thick. Using a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter, cut out 4-inch shapes from the dough. For the spooky faces, use smaller cutters or a knife to carve fun designs into half of the cutouts.
Step 9: Assemble the Hand Pies
On the uncut pumpkin-shaped dough pieces, layer in your shredded Oaxaca and Manchego cheese, then add a generous amount of the cooled chorizo filling. Moisten the edges of the dough with room temperature water, then gently place the cut-out faces on top and press to seal securely.
Step 10: Crimp and Brush
Using a fork, crimp the edges of each hand pie to ensure they are sealed tightly, preventing any filling from leaking during baking. Place the assembled pies onto the lined baking tray and brush the tops with an egg wash made from 1 beaten egg to create a beautiful golden finish when baked.
Step 11: Bake the Hand Pies
Carefully place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake the Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies for 20-30 minutes, or until they are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them after 20 minutes to avoid over-baking.
Step 12: Cool and Serve
Once the hand pies are golden and fragrant, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the tray for a few minutes. Serve them warm for the best flavor, and get ready to enjoy these delightful spooky treats with family and friends!
What to Serve with Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Pairing the right sides and drinks with your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies makes for a complete and delightful meal experience.
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Crispy Garden Salad: A vibrant mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the hand pies.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet and caramelized, these tender bites offer a great contrast to the spicy filling while adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Chipotle Lime Rice: The zesty flavors of lime and a hint of smokiness enhance the savory chorizo, making each bite even more delicious.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: Smooth and buttery, this dip provides a cooling contrast to the spicy hand pies, perfect for dipping and spreading.
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Spicy Salsa: A fresh blend of tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños injects a lively kick that complements the flavors in the hand pies beautifully.
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Crisp Cider: An alcoholic or non-alcoholic apple cider pairs wonderfully, offering a sweet and refreshing finish that cuts through the spice.
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Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: Embrace the autumn vibe with a cozy hot chocolate spiced with pumpkin and cinnamon, perfect for a sweet-treat finish.
By thoughtfully selecting these pairings, you create a heartwarming meal that brings joy and a delightful splash of fun. Enjoy the feast!
Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful pastries to match your palate!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chorizo and pork for a hearty mix of black beans, corn, and peppers for a vibrant veggie filling.
- Cheesy Boost: Add cream cheese to the filling for a creamy texture that melts beautifully in every bite. You won't believe how deliciously rich this makes it!
- Spice Level: Want more heat? Increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick that will make your taste buds dance.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the meat mixture for an aromatic lift that introduces fresh flavors.
- Apple Twist: For a sweet surprise, consider adding diced apples or a spoonful of apple chutney to the filling, offering a delightful contrast to the savory chorizo.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pastry blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of these hand pies that everyone will love.
- Dipping Sauces: Elevate your snack game by serving the hand pies with delicious dips like a zesty tomatillo salsa or creamy avocado dip. The taste combination is simply mouthwatering!
- Festive Shape: Get creative with cookie cutters and make spooky shapes beyond pumpkins, like ghosts or bats, to add an extra level of fun to your Halloween spread.
Now, every bite of your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies can become an adventure, delighting friends and family with their custom flavors! If you're looking for additional inspiration, don’t forget to check out my guide on how to make homemade dips that would pair perfectly with these treats!
Expert Tips for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
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Dough Consistency: Make sure the dough feels slightly tacky but not sticky; add more water if necessary to achieve a smooth texture.
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Chill Time: Don't skip the chilling step! Properly chilling the dough helps create a flaky crust that holds its shape beautifully.
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Cool the Filling: Allow the chorizo filling to cool completely before assembling. This prevents the dough from becoming soggy and keeps the hand pies crisp.
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Seal Carefully: Moisten the edges properly before sealing to ensure no filling leaks out during baking, allowing the flavors to remain inside your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies.
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Baking Watch: Keep an eye on the pies towards the end of the baking time; every oven is different, and you want them just golden brown for perfect flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. The chorizo filling can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. When you're ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, assemble the hand pies with cooled filling and cheese, and brush with egg wash before baking. This method ensures your hand pies are just as delicious and fresh, making them a fantastic choice for effortless entertaining!
How to Store and Freeze Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Enjoy your hand pies fresh out of the oven for the best flavor, but they can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Fridge: Store any leftover Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven for crispy results.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked hand pies for a quick treat later! Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat baked hand pies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy every savory bite!
Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies, choose fresh ingredients. When selecting onions, look for firm ones with smooth skin and no blemishes. Garlic should be plump and dry, while the chorizo should be bright and aromatic. Fresh herbs can also elevate the filling, so if you include them, pick vibrant and fragrant herbs.
What is the best way to store leftover hand pies?
Very! After you’ve enjoyed your hand pies, store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Gently reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain that crispy texture. This way, they'll taste just as delightful as when they were freshly baked!
Can I freeze Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies?
Definitely! You can freeze unbaked hand pies for a quick treat later. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This is a fantastic way to have fun snacks at your fingertips!
What if my dough feels too dry?
No worries! If your dough turns out too dry while mixing, add more chilled water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it holds together well. Be careful not to overwork it, as the dough should remain light and flaky. Kneading it just enough to combine is key!
Are there any dietary considerations for allergies?
Of course! If you’re serving these hand pies to guests with dietary restrictions, double-check the ingredients. Chorizo can be made with pork or beef, so opt for a meat that suits your guests’ needs. For dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese options or omitting the cheese altogether – they'll still be delicious!
How can I make the pies look spooky and fun?
Definitely add a personal touch! Use pumpkin-shaped cookie cutters to make your hand pies festive. For the spooky faces, employ a smaller cutter or a knife for carving patterns on half of your dough cutouts. Not only does this give them personality, but it also makes them a festive conversation piece!
Deliciously Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Non-stick Pan
- Rolling Pin
- Cookie Cutter
- baking tray
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups All-purpose flour Chilling the flour ensures a flaky crust.
- 1 teaspoon Sea salt A little salt enhances the overall flavor of the pastries.
- 6 ounces Unsalted butter Chilled cubes create a tender texture in the dough.
- ½ cup Chilled water Keeps the dough cool, making it easier to handle.
- 1 large Egg Provides richness and helps bind the dough together.
- 1 teaspoon Apple cider vinegar This adds a hint of tang and improves the dough's flakiness.
For the Filling
- 9 ounces Ground chorizo The star ingredient that brings a spicy kick to the filling.
- 10 ounces Minced pork Rich and juicy, this can be swapped for beef, chicken, or turkey.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds depth and a pop of color to the filling.
- 1 medium Onion Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- 3 cloves Garlic Infuse the filling with aromatic goodness.
- ½ teaspoon Cayenne pepper For an extra bit of heat if desired.
- to taste Salt Always adjust to taste for a balanced flavor.
For the Cheesy Delight
- 1 cup Oaxaca cheese Creamy and stretchy, it’s perfect for melting inside the pies.
- 1 cup Manchego cheese Brings a nutty flavor that complements the chorizo beautifully.
To Seal and Finish
- ¼ cup Room temperature water To seal the pie edges securely, preventing any leaks during baking.
- 1 large Egg wash Gives the hand pies a beautiful golden finish when baked.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of chilled all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of sea salt until evenly combined. Then, add in 6 ounces of chilled cubed unsalted butter, rubbing it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized chunks of butter remaining.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together ½ cup of chilled water, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar until combined. Create a well in the flour mixture, then pour in the liquid mixture. Gradually mix until combined, adding more chilled water as needed until the dough comes together.
- On a clean surface, turn out the dough and gently knead it into a ball, adding more water if it feels too dry. Flatten it into a rectangle shape, fold it into thirds like a letter, then flatten again. Repeat this process two more times for a flaky texture.
- Wrap the kneaded dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; this chilling process is essential for a flaky crust later on.
- Heat a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add 9 ounces of ground chorizo and 10 ounces of minced pork, breaking up the meat. Cook for 15-20 minutes until browned.
- Once the meat is browned, stir in 1 teaspoon of paprika, 3 finely chopped garlic cloves, optional ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat and refrigerate to cool.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until about 3 mm thick. Use a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter to cut out 4-inch shapes from the dough.
- On the uncut pumpkin-shaped dough pieces, layer in the shredded Oaxaca and Manchego cheese, then add the cooled chorizo filling. Moisten the edges with water, place cut-out faces on top, and press to seal securely.
- Using a fork, crimp the edges to ensure they are sealed tightly. Place the assembled pies onto the lined baking tray and brush with beaten egg.
- Bake the hand pies for 20-30 minutes or until puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them after 20 minutes.
- Once golden and fragrant, remove from the oven and allow to cool on the tray for a few minutes. Serve warm.
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