These hand pies combine creativity, flavor, and fun all in one bite. You get a tender, golden crust with a warm, gooey center and the chance to decorate them however you like—from scary to silly. They’re great for parties, school treats, or a family baking day. Plus, you can use store-bought pie dough and customize the fillings for minimal fuss and maximum fun.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)
Fruit preserves or pie filling (cherry, raspberry, apple, etc.) or chocolate hazelnut spread
Egg (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting or icing)
Red food coloring or icing gel (for blood effect, optional)
Candy eyes or mini chocolate chips (for decoration)
Optional: cinnamon and sugar for sprinkling
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the pie crusts and use a voodoo doll-shaped cookie cutter or freehand a simple doll shape with a knife. Cut an even number of pieces (each hand pie needs a top and bottom).
Place half of the doll shapes on the prepared baking sheet.
Spoon a small amount of filling (about 1 tablespoon) into the center of each, leaving space around the edges.
Brush the edges with egg wash and place the matching top doll shape over each one. Press the edges together and seal using a fork.
Use a paring knife to gently carve stitched “mouths” or decorative slits for ventilation. Add candy eyes or press mini chocolate chips in place for eyes.
Brush the tops with egg wash.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Let cool slightly, then decorate with red icing gel, powdered sugar, or additional spooky accents as desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 8 hand pies (depending on size). Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15–18 minutes Total time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
Savory Voodoo Dolls: Fill with seasoned meat, cheese, or vegetables for a savory twist.
Spooky Apple Spice: Use spiced apple pie filling with cinnamon sugar on top.
Bloody Berry: Cherry or raspberry preserves give a “bloody” look when you cut into them.
Nutella or Chocolate: For a sweet and rich surprise inside.
Vegan Version: Use vegan pie dough and plant-based fillings for a dairy-free option.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover hand pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes until heated through. Microwave briefly for 10–15 seconds, though the crust may lose crispness. Freeze unbaked pies (sealed and unegg-washed) for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the bake time.
FAQs
What kind of filling works best?
Thick fillings like fruit preserves, pie filling, or Nutella work best to avoid leaking.
Can I make my own pie dough?
Yes, homemade pie dough adds a rich, buttery flavor and works perfectly in this recipe.
How do I shape the voodoo dolls?
Use a doll-shaped cookie cutter or freehand a simple figure with a knife for a unique, handmade look.
Can kids help make these?
Definitely! Kids love cutting the dough, adding the filling, and decorating the faces.
What’s the best way to seal the edges?
Use a fork to press the edges together after applying egg wash—this helps prevent leaking.
Can I add food coloring to the dough?
Yes, for an extra spooky effect, tint the dough with gel food coloring before rolling it out.
Do I need to vent the pies?
Yes, a few small slits on top allow steam to escape and prevent bursting during baking.
Can I use puff pastry instead?
Yes, but reduce baking time slightly and watch closely, as puff pastry browns faster.
How do I decorate them like voodoo dolls?
Use candy eyes, draw stitches with icing or melted chocolate, and drizzle red gel icing for a “bloody” look.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze before baking for best results. Bake straight from frozen with additional time.
Conclusion
Voodoo Doll Hand Pies are the perfect blend of creepy and cute—fun to make, fun to eat, and a guaranteed hit at any spooky celebration. Whether you go sweet or savory, these hand pies are easy to customize and impossible to resist. Make a batch for Halloween, themed parties, or just for a baking project with a little extra personality.
Voodoo Doll Hand Pies are spooky, fun, and delicious treats perfect for Halloween or themed parties. Shaped like playful little dolls, these flaky pastries are filled with fruity or chocolatey goodness, decorated with creepy-cute faces, and easy to customize and bake.
Ingredients
2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
1/2 cup fruit preserves, pie filling, or chocolate hazelnut spread
1 egg (for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting or icing)
Red food coloring or icing gel (optional, for decoration)
Candy eyes or mini chocolate chips (for decoration)
Optional: cinnamon and sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the pie crusts and use a voodoo doll-shaped cookie cutter or a knife to cut an even number of doll-shaped pieces (each pie needs a top and bottom).
Place half the doll shapes on the baking sheet. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of filling into the center of each, leaving space at the edges.
Brush the edges with egg wash and place the matching top shapes over the filling. Seal edges with a fork.
Use a knife to carve stitches or slits for ventilation. Add candy eyes or mini chocolate chips for eyes.
Brush the tops with egg wash.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Let cool slightly. Decorate with red gel, powdered sugar, or other spooky accents if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use thick fillings like preserves or Nutella to prevent leaking.Get creative with shapes and decorations for a custom look.Tint dough with gel food coloring for a spookier effect.Freeze unbaked pies for up to 1 month—bake from frozen with added time.Use a fork and egg wash to seal the edges securely and prevent bursting.