Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Vegan Nutella Mummy Hand Pies are a delightful Halloween treat that everyone will love. These hand pies are not only delicious but also easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a fun dessert, these treats stand out with their playful mummy design and rich chocolate flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time.
• Fun for Everyone: Kids will enjoy helping to make these spooky snacks, making it a perfect family activity.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these hand pies at Halloween parties or as a unique dessert option any time of year.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Vegan Nutella and bananas creates a mouthwatering filling that everyone loves.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare these hand pies in advance for stress-free entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Nutella Mummy Hand Pies efficiently, gather your tools ahead of time. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pastry cutter
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring your hand pies cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the puff pastry to the perfect thickness for easy folding and shaping.

Ingredients

To make Vegan Nutella Mummy Hand Pies, gather 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 Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your hand pies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
2. Cut each sheet into rectangles, about 4 x 6 inches in size.

Step 3: Assemble the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
2. Combine the mashed bananas with Vegan Nutella until well mixed.

Step 4: Fill the Pastry

1. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each pastry rectangle.
2. Fold over one side to cover the filling and press down to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for decoration.

Step 5: Create Mummy Strips

1. Cut strips from any leftover pastry dough to create ‘bandages’ for your mummies.
2. Lay them across the sealed hand pies in a crisscross pattern.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash and Sugar

1. Brush the tops of each pie with dairy-free milk for a golden finish.
2. Sprinkle with caster sugar for added sweetness.

Step 7: Bake

Place your prepared hand pies on a lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Decorate with Chocolate Buttons

Once baked, let them cool slightly before drizzling melted dairy-free white chocolate buttons on top as eyes.

Enjoy your delightful Vegan Nutella Mummy Hand Pies!

How to Serve Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Nutella Mummy Hand Pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their fun appearance makes them a perfect addition to any Halloween gathering or as a special snack for kids. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Creative Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Fruit: Pair these hand pies with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or apple wedges for a refreshing contrast.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dairy-free chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for a light and fluffy complement.
• Ice Cream on the Side: Offer a scoop of dairy-free ice cream alongside for a deliciously sweet treat.
• Dust with Icing Sugar: A light dusting of icing sugar adds a nice visual appeal and sweetness.

How to Perfect Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Making perfect Nutella Mummy Hand Pies is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your hand pies turn out beautifully every time.

• Use Cold Pastry: Start with cold puff pastry to achieve the best layers and crispiness when baking.
• Seal Edges Well: Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
• Chill Before Baking: Refrigerate the filled hand pies for about 15 minutes before baking for better shape retention.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; every oven is different, and you want them golden brown but not burnt.
• Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to try other fillings like almond butter or fruit preserves for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

Nutella Mummy Hand Pies can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options that enhance their flavors.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the pies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side.
3. Savory Veggie Sticks: Crisp carrot and cucumber sticks provide a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely.
4. Mini Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup is cozy and fits perfectly with Halloween themes.
5. Spiced Hot Chocolate: A cup of spiced hot chocolate can make this treat even more festive and comforting.
6. Cheese Board: Offer a selection of dairy-free cheeses for those who enjoy savory alongside sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating Nutella Mummy Hand Pies can be a delightful experience. However, there are a few common mistakes to avoid.

• Neglecting the Puff Pastry Temperature: Using puff pastry that is too warm can lead to a soggy crust. Ensure it’s chilled before rolling and cutting.
• Overfilling with Nutella: Adding too much filling can cause the pies to burst open while baking. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.
• Skipping the Egg Wash: Not applying the dairy-free milk wash can result in pale, unappetizing pastries. Brush a thin layer for a golden finish.
• Inadequate Sealing: Failing to seal the edges properly may lead to leaks during baking. Press down firmly with a fork around the edges.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Overbaking can dry out your hand pies while underbaking may leave them doughy. Keep an eye on them as they cook.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Nutella Mummy Hand Pies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

• Wrap each hand pie individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Nutella Mummy Hand Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds; check and heat more if needed, but avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use regular Nutella instead of vegan?

You can use regular Nutella if you don’t need a vegan version. However, this recipe is tailored for vegan alternatives.

What can I substitute for puff pastry?

You can use phyllo dough or make your own pastry using flour and plant-based butter if you prefer.

How do I customize my Nutella Mummy Hand Pies?

Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporate other fillings such as fruit jams or chocolate chips.

Are Nutella Mummy Hand Pies kid-friendly?

Definitely! These treats are fun and easy for kids to help make and enjoy during Halloween festivities.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Nutella Mummy Hand Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent treat for Halloween parties or any festive gathering. You can customize them with various fillings or toppings, making them perfect for everyone’s taste preferences. Try making these delightful hand pies today!