Nutella Mummy Hand Pies: A Delicious and Fun Recipe

When it comes to festive treats, few things can compete with the charm and delight of hand pies. In this article, we’ll be exploring the enticing world of Nutella Mummy Hand Pies – a creation that is not only deliciously sweet but also visually captivating. Ideal for Halloween gatherings or any fun occasion, these hand pies are a great way to engage the family in the kitchen while whipping up a special dessert.

Ingredients

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

2 sheets of ready roll puff pastry (Vegan & gluten-free)
6 tablespoons of Vegan Nutella
2 medium-sized bananas
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 (for dusting)

These ingredients seamlessly blend together, offering a plant-based and allergy-friendly dessert option that everyone can enjoy.

Instructions

The preparation of Nutella Mummy Hand Pies is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps for a delightful outcome:

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that your hand pies will cook evenly and come out beautifully golden brown.
Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice each sheet into rectangles. Aim for sizes of approximately 10×15 cm (4×6 inches) to hold your filling comfortably.
Add the Filling: Spread 1 tablespoon of Vegan Nutella on half of each rectangle, leaving some space around the edges. Slice the bananas into thin slices and place them atop the Nutella for added flavor and texture.
Seal the Hand Pies: Fold the pastry over to create pockets. Press down the edges using a fork to seal them tightly. This step is crucial for preventing the filling from leaking out during baking.
Create the Mummy Look: To achieve the mummy effect, use a sharp knife to cut thin strips from the remaining puff pastry. Layer these strips over the hand pies to resemble mummy bandages.
Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pies with dairy-free milk using a pastry brush for a nice golden glaze.
Sprinkle Sugar: For an added touch of sweetness, sprinkle caster sugar over the top.
Bake to Perfection: Place the hand pies on a lined baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Add the Eyes: Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and let them cool slightly. Melt the dairy-free white chocolate buttons and dollop small amounts onto the pies to create eyes. You can use additional chocolate to create pupils if desired.
Dust with Icing Sugar: Lastly, dust your Nutella Mummy Hand Pies with icing sugar for an elegant finish.

Benefits of This Craft

Creating Nutella Mummy Hand Pies has multiple advantages. Firstly, it encourages family bonding through cooking together, making it an excellent activity for children and adults alike. Additionally, with the use of vegan and gluten-free ingredients, these hand pies cater to those with dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to indulge without worry. Furthermore, baking at home allows you to control the sweetness and ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought candies. Engaging in this creative process also enhances your baking skills, empowering you to experiment with varied fillings and decorations in the future.

Tips

For the best results with your Nutella Mummy Hand Pies, consider the following tips:

Ensure that your puff pastry is cold when working with it; this will help it rise properly in the oven.
Feel free to experiment with different flavors of fillings, such as almond butter or fruit preserves, if Nutella isn’t your preference.
Use a sharp knife for cutting pastry strips to ensure clean, even edges.
If you want an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or granola to the filling.
Don’t skip the icing sugar dusting; it adds a beautiful finish that enhances the overall presentation.

What Does It Taste Like?

Nutella Mummy Hand Pies offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The buttery, flaky crust of the puff pastry pairs beautifully with the rich, chocolaty sweetness of Nutella. When combined with ripe banana slices, the filling takes on an interesting layer of flavor, balancing the chocolate’s sinfulness with the natural sweetness of the fruit. The added crunch of the sugar on top gives the pies a pleasant contrast, making each bite an experience. Visually, the whimsical mummy design adds an element of fun, capturing the spirit of Halloween without compromising on taste.

How to Store

To keep your Nutella Mummy Hand Pies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can typically last for about 2-3 days without losing their delightful texture. If you need to store them for a longer duration, consider freezing them. Place the cooled hand pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Conclusion

Nutella Mummy Hand Pies are not only an exciting and tasty treat, but they also provide an excellent opportunity for family bonding and creativity in the kitchen. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between fun and flavor, ensuring that your Halloween or special occasion is filled with delicious memories. The versatility of the ingredients allows for various adjustments catering to varied tastes, making this a truly adaptable recipe. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them during a cozy evening, these hand pies are sure to impress.

FAQs

Can I make these hand pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hand pies in advance and freeze them before baking. Just make sure to thaw and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different spread instead of Nutella?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any other nut butter or chocolate spread that you prefer.

Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for children, but adult supervision is recommended, especially when using sharp knives or baking in the oven.

How can I make these hand pies more Halloween-themed?
You can get creative with decorations by using melted chocolate to create festive designs or toppings for different holiday themes.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of bananas?
Definitely! You can use other fruits like strawberries or apple slices for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on the moisture content of the fruit used.