Name: Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies: Your New Favorite Halloween Snack
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Use chilled flour for a flakier texture.); 1 teaspoon Sea salt (No substitutions needed.); 1 cup Unsalted butter (Chill and cube the butter for best results.); 6 tablespoons Chilled water (Add more if dough is too dry.); 1 large Egg (Use at room temperature for ease of mixing.); 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (Adds tenderness to the dough.); 1 pound Ground chorizo (Substitute with other meats like beef or turkey as desired.); 1 pound Minced pork (Can be swapped for ground beef or chicken.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Smoked paprika can provide an extra layer of taste.); 1 medium Onion (Finely chop for even distribution.); 2 cloves Garlic (Use fresh for the best flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (Adjust quantity based on spice preference.); 1 cup Oaxaca cheese (Substitute with mozzarella if unavailable.); 1 cup Manchego cheese (Use any semi-hard cheese as an alternative.)

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The crunch of falling leaves underfoot and the crisp air of October ignite a spark of creativity in me—perfect for whipping up something playful in the kitchen. Enter my Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies, a festive twist that brings a touch of whimsy to your Halloween gatherings! These savory snacks aren’t just fun to shape into pumpkin faces; they also pack a delightful punch with a filling that combines robust chorizo and creamy cheeses. Quick to assemble and easy to customize, they are sure to be a hit at any celebration, leaving even the pickiest eaters reaching for more. So, are you ready to chill your dough and unleash your inner festive chef? Let’s dive into this deliciously spooky adventure!

Why Are These Hand Pies a Must-Try?

Flavorful, Spooky Delight: The bold spices from the chorizo combined with rich cheeses create a mouthwatering filling that’s sure to thrill your taste buds.
Festively Fun Shapes: Every pie shaped like a pumpkin brings festive cheer and encourages creativity in the kitchen—perfect for Halloween gatherings!
Quick and Easy: With simple instructions and not too many steps, you can whip these up in no time, making it the ideal recipe for last-minute celebrations.
Customizable Joy: Want to switch things up? Mix in your favorite veggies or change the cheeses to accommodate different tastes.
Crowd Pleaser: These savory snacks appeal to both adults and kids, guaranteeing they’ll be a hit at your next party! If you’re looking for more festive ideas, check out my other Halloween-themed snacks that would complement these beauties.

Spooky Chorizo Hand Pie Ingredients

For the Dough

AP Flour – Provides the structure for the dough. Use chilled flour for a flakier texture.
Sea Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dough. No substitutions needed.
Unsalted Butter – Creates a flaky texture in the pastry. Chill and cube the butter for best results.
Chilled Water – Hydrates the dough and ensures it comes together. Add more if dough is too dry.
Egg – Acts as a binding agent in the dough and for egg wash. Use at room temperature for ease of mixing.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice – Adds tenderness to the dough. Either can be used based on preference.

For the Filling

Ground Chorizo – The main flavor component of the filling, packed with spices. Substitute with other meats like beef or turkey as desired.
Minced Pork – Provides additional meatiness in the filling. Can be swapped for ground beef or chicken.
Paprika – Adds depth of flavor to the filling. Smoked paprika can provide an extra layer of taste.
Onion – Provides aromatic sweetness in the filling. Finely chop for even distribution.
Garlic Cloves – Adds savoriness to the filling. Use fresh for the best flavor.
Cayenne Pepper – Offers optional heat to the filling. Adjust quantity based on spice preference.
Oaxaca Cheese – Contributes creaminess to the filling with a nutty flavor. Substitute with mozzarella if unavailable.
Manchego Cheese – Adds a distinct, mild flavor and creamy texture to the filling. Use any semi-hard cheese as an alternative.

These Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies promise to be a delightful addition to your Halloween festivities, offering a savory treat brimming with flavor and a hint of creativity!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine chilled all-purpose flour and sea salt. Cut in cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with small bits of butter still visible. In a separate bowl, mix chilled water, vinegar, and room temperature egg. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Knead gently, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add ground chorizo and minced pork, breaking it up as it cooks. Mix in paprika, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper, cooking until the meat is browned and fragrant. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before using.

Step 3: Assemble the Hand Pies
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Use a pumpkin-shaped cutter to cut out shapes, re-rolling any scraps as needed. Place a spoonful of the chorizo filling and a small amount of Oaxaca and Manchego cheese in the center of each pumpkin cutout. Carefully fold the dough over, seal the edges by crimping with a fork, and create small faces using dough scraps for decoration.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the assembled Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with an egg wash made from the remaining egg mixed with a splash of water. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the hand pies are golden brown and puffed up. Allow to cool slightly before serving them warm at your Halloween festivities.

What to Serve with Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

Enhance your Halloween gathering with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the whimsy and flavor of these hand pies!

Spicy Salsa: A tangy dip that adds a zesty kick, enhancing the savory flavors of the chorizo while keeping it festive.
Crispy Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich hand pies.
Apple Cider: This fall favorite brings a warm, spiced sweetness to your table, balancing the savory pie with its comforting flavors.
Pumpkin Soup: A creamy, spiced pumpkin soup echoes the Halloween theme and adds a cozy, warming element to your meal.
Guacamole: The creamy texture and coolness of guacamole are perfect for dipping and bringing a bright flair to each bite.
Cheesy Queso Dip: Rich and melty queso adds an indulgent touch that’s impossible to resist, melding beautifully with the chorizo filling.

Pair any of these suggestions with your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies for an unforgettable Halloween feast that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Expert Tips for Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

Chilled Ingredients: Use chilled flour and butter to create a flaky crust. The butter should remain in small chunks for the best texture.
Avoid Oil Leakage: Be generous with the filling, but make sure it’s not too oily. This will help prevent any leaks during baking.
Creative Pie Faces: Use various cookie cutters to make fun and unique facial expressions on your pies. This adds an extra layer of creativity!
Make Ahead: Prepare the hand pies a day in advance and refrigerate them. Bake right before your event for maximum freshness.
Spice to Taste: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the filling based on your spice preference. Not everyone enjoys the same heat level!
Customize Fillings: Feel free to swap out ground chorizo with your favorite meats or even vegetarian options to suit different dietary tastes.

These handy tips will ensure your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies turn out delicious and delightfully spooky!

Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine in the kitchen by customizing these delightful hand pies to suit your taste!

Vegetarian Twist: Swap out the chorizo and minced pork for black beans and corn. This makes a hearty filling packed with flavor! Add spices like cumin for an extra kick.
Cheese Lover’s Delight: Increase cheese quantity by using a blend of Monterey Jack and feta for a creamy and tangy filling that adds depth to the hand pies.
Heat It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling if you love a spicy kick. Just be mindful of your guests’ preferences!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the filling for a fragrant boost that brings freshness to the savory flavors. These delicate notes elevate the spook factor!
Puff Pastry Option: For a flaky alternative, use store-bought puff pastry instead of making dough from scratch. They’ll create an indulgently crunchy exterior that’s fun to bite into.
Creative Shapes: Instead of pumpkin shapes, use other Halloween-themed cookie cutters like bats or ghosts to keep things whimsical and exciting. You could brighten up your platter with equally enchanting designs!
Savory Veggie Medley: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach to the filling for a nutritious upgrade that everyone will love.
Global Influence: Infuse Latin flavors by adding corn and spices like oregano to the mixture, giving a unique twist that is both festive and delicious. This fusion elevates the classic experience!

These variations ensure that you can keep the excitement alive in your Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies, making them a versatile and unforgettable addition to any Halloween spread! If you’re intrigued by more culinary inspirations, take a look at my easy homemade salsa or indulge in some Halloween-themed desserts to round out your festive menu. Enjoy the Halloween spirit!

How to Store and Freeze Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies

Fridge: Keep baked hand pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze uncooked hand pies on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies a day in advance and refrigerate before baking. This allows for fresh pies without the last-minute rush.

Reheating: Reheat leftover baked hand pies in the oven instead of the microwave to ensure they remain crispy and delightful!

Make Ahead Options

These Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance, which not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully. To do this, simply make the dough, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate, while the filling can be sautéed, cooled, and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll out your chilled dough, fill with the spicy chorizo mixture, and assemble the hand pies. Bake right before serving for that piping hot, flaky goodness that keeps these treats just as delicious as the day they were made!

Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of chorizo should I use for the filling?
I recommend using a good quality ground chorizo for its bold flavor. If you prefer a milder option, you can swap it for ground turkey or beef, or even try a vegetarian meat substitute to accommodate different dietary preferences.

How do I store leftover Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies?
After baking, store your hand pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze Spooky Chorizo Hand Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the uncooked hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my hand pie filling leaks during baking?
To prevent leaks, ensure your filling isn’t too oily and seal the edges of the hand pies well by crimping with a fork. If you encounter a leak, don’t worry too much! Simply enjoy the extra crispy bits—it adds to the flavor!

Are there any dietary considerations?
Yes! You can easily customize this recipe to suit different dietary needs. For gluten-free options, try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour. If you have cheese allergies, substitute dairy cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives or skip the cheese altogether while increasing the veggie content in your filling.

How can I make these hand pies more festive?
Get creative with the decorations! Use cookie cutters to add fun faces and shapes to your hand pies, or sprinkle edible glitter over the egg wash before baking for a sparkle that catches the eye!