Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe air is thick with the smell of autumn as Halloween creeps closer, and what better way to celebrate this festive season than with Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies? These delightful little pastries are not only easy to prepare, but they also deliver a playful twist on your typical savory snack, making them a perfect addition to any spooky gathering. With a delicious filling of zesty chorizo and gooey cheese, these hand pies are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Plus, they can be made using store-bought pie dough, saving you precious time during this bustling holiday season. Are you ready to whip up some culinary magic that’s perfect for your Halloween festivities? Why Are You Going to Crave These? Quick and Easy: The simplicity of using store-bought pie dough makes this recipe a breeze, giving you more time to enjoy Halloween festivities. Flavor Explosion: The combination of zesty chorizo and gooey cheese creates a savory delight that will haunt your taste buds. Festive Fun: Their whimsical pumpkin shapes and playful facial cutouts add a festive flair that’s sure to be a conversation starter at any gathering. Make Ahead Magic: Prepare them in advance and freeze for effortless holiday snacking. Just bake and serve, making entertaining a cinch. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect as appetizers or snacks, these hand pies will surely disappear from the buffet table, leaving everyone craving more! For another quick treat, don’t miss my Air Fryer Hand Pies, which are perfect for busy nights! Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Ingredients For the Pie Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the pie dough; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option. Sea Salt – Enhances flavor of the dough; regular salt substitutes can be used at a 1:1 ratio. Unsalted Butter – Adds flakiness and richness; replace with chilled vegetable shortening for a lighter dough. Chilled Water – Helps form the dough; ensure it is cold for the flakiest results. Egg – Binds the dough and serves as an egg wash for browning; can replace with a vegan option if preferred. Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Contributes to the dough’s flakiness; white vinegar makes a great swap. For the Filling Ground Chorizo – The star protein of the filling, providing rich and spicy flavor; any ground meat works for different flavor profiles. Minced Pork – Adds moisture and flavor; ground beef or turkey are excellent alternatives. Paprika – Brings flavor and color to the filling; smoked paprika can intensify the taste. Onion (finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can easily be used as a substitute. Garlic Cloves (finely chopped) – Enhances the savory profile; garlic powder can be an alternative if fresh isn’t available. Cayenne Pepper (optional) – Adds heat to the filling; adjust according to your spice preference. Oaxaca Cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully, providing a creamy texture; mozzarella works as a substitute. Manchego Cheese (shredded) – Infuses a distinct nutty flavor; use a sharp cheddar blend as a replacement. Get ready for a batch of Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies that will sprout joy and flavor during your Halloween celebrations! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and sea salt. Cut in chilled, unsalted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly, resembling coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add chilled water, the egg, and apple cider vinegar, stirring until a dough forms. Knead gently until smooth, then wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. Step 2: Make the Filling In a skillet over medium heat, sauté finely chopped onion in a splash of oil until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add ground chorizo and minced pork, cooking until browned and fully cooked through, around 8-10 minutes. Stir in paprika, minced garlic, cayenne (if using), and season with salt. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a pumpkin-shaped cutter to cut out pieces of dough. Create playful faces on half of the cutouts with smaller cutters. Spoon a generous portion of the chorizo filling mixed with shredded Oaxaca and Manchego cheese onto each base, then place the decorated top piece over the filling. Seal the edges by pressing down with a fork. Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the assembled Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies on it. Brush the tops with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the pies are puffed and golden brown, giving your kitchen that delightful aroma of fall festivities. What to Serve with Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Elevate your festive gathering with delightful side dishes that harmonize beautifully with these playful hand pies. Creamy Avocado Dip: This smooth and luscious dip offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy filling. Perfect for adding a creamy touch to each savory bite! Spicy Salsa: The zesty notes in salsa perfectly complement the rich chorizo filling. A splash of citrus balances the flavors, making every forkful lively and exciting! Roasted Pumpkin Wedges: These warm, tender wedges echo the pumpkin theme while adding a slightly sweet earthiness. They create a lovely harmony alongside the savory hand pies! Zesty Sour Cream: A dollop of tangy sour cream lends a cooling element that pairs incredibly with the spicy chorizo. It adds creamsiness while enhancing the overall flavor. Seasoned Black Beans: Earthy and hearty, seasoned black beans bring wholesome textures and nutrients. They also create an inviting, colorful addition to your plate! Crisp Garden Salad: A bright salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the hand pies. Chilled Cider: A glass of chilled apple cider or pumpkin-spiced beverage is perfect for capturing the essence of fall. Its sweet yet tart notes elevate the meal’s festive spirit! Serve these delightful pairings to create a memorable Halloween spread that your friends and family will talk about long after the last hand pie has vanished! How to Store and Freeze Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Room Temperature: Keep cooked hand pies at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating to avoid any bacterial growth. Fridge: Store leftover Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for 10–15 minutes at 350°F to regain their crispy texture. Freezer: Freeze unbaked hand pies in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 375°F for an extended time, about 30–35 minutes. Reheating: For a quick snack, reheat baked hand pies directly from the fridge in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through, about 5–7 minutes, to keep them flaky. Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Variations Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies even more unique and delightful! Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile. It creates a fun surprise in every bite! Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers or fresh spinach to the filling for an extra layer of texture and flavor. Not only do they enhance taste, but they also add a pop of color! Vegetarian Delight: Substitute ground chorizo and pork with seasoned mushrooms and black beans for a hearty and meat-free version. It’ll be both satisfying and flavorful, perfect for those looking to skip the meat. Herbal Touch: Seasons can change the whole mood! Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for an aromatic burst of freshness. The herbaceous notes will complement the savory elements beautifully. Gluten-Free Dough: For those avoiding gluten, swap regular pie dough for gluten-free alternatives, allowing everyone to enjoy these festive treats. This flexibility means no one misses out on Halloween fun! Wrapping Options: Experiment with puff pastry instead of dough for a flaky and elevated texture that’s oh-so-delicious. Your pies will turn into delightful pastries that are sure to impress. Chili Heat: If you’re a fan of heat, increase the cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños in the filling. The added spice will awaken all your senses and keep everyone coming back for more! Remember, there are endless possibilities! You might even find a new family favorite with these variations or when using your creativity by trying different flavors. For another quick treat, don’t forget to check out my Air Fryer Hand Pies for a new twist on a classic! Make Ahead Options These Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and refrigerate them separately. To maintain the dough’s flakiness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and for the filling, let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, assemble the pies, and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked hand pies for up to a month; just place them on a lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for delicious, warm hand pies at a moment’s notice! Tips for the Best Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Chill the Dough: Ensure your butter is chilled before mixing; this keeps the crust flaky and prevents it from becoming too tough during kneading. Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in the chorizo filling, leave a little space around the edges to seal the hand pies properly without bursting during baking. Creative Cutouts: Use small cookie cutters to make playful face designs on the top dough pieces, adding charm to your spooky presentation. Egg Wash Finish: For that golden brown top, don’t skip the egg wash before baking; it creates a beautiful sheen that enhances their look. Freezing Flexibility: Feel free to freeze unbaked Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies for a convenient snack; just bake them straight from the freezer with a slight increase in baking time. Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Recipe FAQs What kind of chorizo should I use? Absolutely! For the most flavor-packed filling, I recommend using ground beef chorizo, which adds a wonderful zest. If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute with regular ground pork or turkey. Just ensure that whatever option you choose is well-seasoned! How do I store leftover hand pies? Very! Once cooled, store your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes to bring back their delightful crispiness. Can I freeze the unbaked hand pies? Absolutely! For freezing, line the assembled but unbaked hand pies on a tray in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to a month. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just bake from frozen at 375°F for about 30 to 35 minutes. How can I ensure my hand pies are flaky? To achieve that perfect flaky crust, make sure your butter is very cold when mixing it into the flour. Avoid overworking the dough; mix just until combined. Chilling the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out is also crucial for keeping the layers intact! Are these hand pies suitable for people with gluten allergies? Definitely! You can easily swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-free diets. Make sure that the additional ingredients, like the chorizo and any sauces you may use, are also gluten-free to keep your entire dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. What vegetables can I add to the filling? Very! Feel free to get creative by incorporating some finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even black beans into your filling mixture. This not only adds some nutrition but also brings different textures and flavors to your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies. Enjoy experimenting! Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies that Haunt Your Taste Buds No ratings yet Delight in Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies that are easy to prepare, stuffed with zesty chorizo and gooey cheese, perfect for Halloween gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 30 minutes minsChill Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 pattiesCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pie Dough2 cups All-Purpose Flour gluten-free flour can be used1 teaspoon Sea Salt regular salt substitutes can be used1 stick Unsalted Butter can replace with chilled vegetable shortening1/4 cup Chilled Water ensure it is cold for flakiness1 large Egg can replace with a vegan option1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar or lemon juice can be usedFor the Filling1 pound Ground Chorizo any ground meat can work1/2 pound Minced Pork ground beef or turkey are alternatives1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika can intensify the taste1 medium Onion (finely chopped) shallots can be used as a substitute2 cloves Garlic Cloves (finely chopped) garlic powder can be used if fresh isn't available1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional) adjust according to spice preference1 cup Oaxaca Cheese (shredded) mozzarella can be a substitute1 cup Manchego Cheese (shredded) use a sharp cheddar blend as a replacement Equipment Mixing BowlSkilletBaking TrayCookie cutters Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPrepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and sea salt. Cut in chilled butter until crumbly. Gradually add chilled water, egg, and vinegar, stirring until a dough forms. Knead gently, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.Make the Filling: Sauté onion in a skillet over medium heat until translucent. Add ground chorizo and minced pork, cooking until browned. Stir in paprika, garlic, cayenne, and season with salt. Cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.Assemble the Hand Pies: Roll out chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Use pumpkin-shaped cutters for pieces. Create playful faces on half of the cutouts. Spoon chorizo filling mixed with cheeses onto the base, seal with the top piece.Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a tray with parchment paper and arrange assembled pies on it. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-30 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Nutrition Serving: 1hand pieCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesChill butter before mixing to keep crust flaky. Don’t overfill pies to prevent bursting during baking. Creative cutouts add charm. Freeze unbaked pies for a convenient snack. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
