Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Vegan Nutella Mummy Hand Pies are a delightful Halloween treat that will impress both kids and adults. These charming pastries are not only fun to make but also deliciously satisfying, making them perfect for parties, school events, or a spooky family dessert night. With their flaky pastry and rich Nutella filling, these hand pies capture the essence of Halloween in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, these hand pies come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy schedules.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy Vegan Nutella and sweet bananas creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Halloween: They are themed for the holiday, adding a festive touch to your celebrations.
• Versatile Treat: They can be enjoyed as a dessert or snack, making them suitable for various occasions.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare these hand pies ahead of time, saving you stress on the day of your event.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need for preparing these tasty treats.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Brush (for egg wash)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your hand pies to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out puff pastry evenly for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

To create your Vegan Nutella Mummy Hand Pies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pastry

• 2 sheets of ready roll puff pastry (Vegan & gluten-free)

For the Filling

• 6 tablespoons of Vegan Nutella
• 2 medium sized bananas

For Assembly

• 3 tablespoons of dairy-free milk (for the ‘egg wash’)
• 2 tablespoons of caster / granulated sugar
• 1 packet of dairy-free white chocolate buttons
• 2 tablespoons of icing sugar (dusting)

How to Make Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pastries bake evenly and become wonderfully flaky.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Unroll the sheets of puff pastry onto a clean surface.
2. Use a rolling pin to gently roll out each sheet to ensure they are slightly thinner.
3. Cut the pastry into rectangles (about 4×6 inches), depending on how big you want your hand pies.

Step 3: Fill with Nutella and Bananas

1. On half of each rectangle, spread about one tablespoon of Vegan Nutella.
2. Slice the bananas into thin rounds and place them over the Nutella layer.

Step 4: Seal the Hand Pies

1. Fold over the other half of the pastry rectangle to cover the filling.
2. Press down on the edges with a fork to seal properly.
3. Brush dairy-free milk on top to give it a golden finish while baking.

Step 5: Bake Your Hand Pies

1. Place the sealed hand pies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Sprinkle with caster sugar before placing in the oven.
3. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Decorate as Mummies!

1. Once baked, let them cool slightly before drizzling melted dairy-free white chocolate buttons across them to create ‘bandages’.
2. Dust with icing sugar for an added spooky effect!

Enjoy your spooky Vegan Nutella Mummy Hand Pies at your next Halloween gathering!

How to Serve Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Nutella Mummy Hand Pies are a delightful treat for Halloween and can be served in various creative ways. Here are some fun serving ideas that will make your hand pies even more enjoyable.

Creative Platter Display

• Arrange the hand pies on a festive platter with Halloween-themed decorations like mini pumpkins or spider webs for an eye-catching presentation.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Serve alongside chocolate sauce or fruit puree for dipping, enhancing the flavor and adding a fun interactive element to the experience.

Pair with Seasonal Drinks

• Offer a selection of seasonal drinks such as apple cider or pumpkin spice smoothies to complement the sweet flavors of the hand pies.

Garnish with Edible Decorations

• Sprinkle some edible glitter or add candy eyes on top of the hand pies for an extra spooky touch that kids will love.

How to Perfect Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Perfecting your Nutella Mummy Hand Pies is all about the details. Follow these tips to ensure they’re delicious and visually appealing.

• Use chilled pastry: Keep your puff pastry cold before baking to achieve a flaky texture.
• Seal edges properly: Make sure to press the edges firmly when sealing them to prevent any filling from leaking out.
• Brush evenly: Apply dairy-free milk for an egg wash evenly over the tops for a golden finish.
• Don’t overcrowd: Space out your hand pies on the baking tray to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to mix in other spreads like almond butter or fruit jams for a unique twist.
• Cool before serving: Let them cool slightly after baking; this enhances their flavor and makes them easier to handle.

Best Side Dishes for Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Serving side dishes alongside your Nutella Mummy Hand Pies can elevate the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the hand pies.

2. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup pairs well, offering a savory contrast.

3. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements dessert well.

4. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of natural sweetness and are fun to munch on alongside.

5. Mini Vegetable Skewers
   Colorful skewers filled with fresh vegetables offer a healthy, crunchy option that kids will enjoy.

6. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   These sweet-and-salty snacks are perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces along with hand pies.

7. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
   Lightly fried tortilla chips sprinkled with cinnamon sugar add a delightful crunch and sweetness.

8. Caramelized Apples
   Warm caramelized apples provide an indulgent, sweet topping option that pairs beautifully with Nutella flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Nutella Mummy Hand Pies can be a fun experience, but some common mistakes might ruin your treat. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the egg wash: Not using dairy-free milk for the egg wash may result in dull-looking pastries. Brush the tops with dairy-free milk for a golden finish.
• Overfilling with Nutella: Adding too much Nutella can make it difficult to seal the pies properly. Use only 1 tablespoon of Nutella per pie to ensure they bake correctly.
• Ignoring pastry temperature: If your puff pastry is too warm, it may become sticky and hard to work with. Keep it chilled until you’re ready to assemble.
• Not sealing edges well: Failing to press down on the edges can lead to leaks during baking. Ensure you seal them firmly, using a fork for extra security.
• Baking at incorrect temperature: Baking at too low of a temperature may result in soggy pies. Preheat your oven properly and bake at 400°F (200°C) for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

• Freeze before baking for optimal freshness.
• Wrap each pie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 20 seconds; this will soften the pastry but may not retain crispiness.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Nutella Mummy Hand Pies:

Can I use other fillings besides Nutella?

Yes! You can substitute with almond butter or fruit preserves. Just ensure they fit within the pastry without overfilling.

How do I make these Nutella Mummy Hand Pies gluten-free?

Use gluten-free puff pastry sheets available at most grocery stores. Check labels to ensure they’re suitable for your dietary needs.

What is the best way to decorate my mummies?

You can melt dairy-free white chocolate buttons and drizzle them over the baked pies for festive bandages.

How do I know when my hand pies are done?

They should be golden brown and flaky on top. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking time.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble your pies and store them in the fridge or freezer before baking. Just remember to adjust baking times accordingly!

Final Thoughts

Nutella Mummy Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile for any Halloween celebration. With easy customization options, you can make these treats uniquely yours by experimenting with different fillings or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delightful hand pies that everyone will love!