Easy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hand Pies Ready in 30 Minutes
Imagine biting into a golden, flaky pastry that gives way to a warm, cinnamon-spiced sweet potato filling that tastes like autumn in every bite. These air fryer sweet potato hand pies are everything you crave in a cozy dessert—buttery, sweet, and incredibly satisfying.
Did you know that sweet potatoes were one of the first foods served at the White House? Now you can bring that presidential quality right to your kitchen! What makes these hand pies truly special is their foolproof simplicity and lightning-fast cook time in the air fryer. No need to heat up your entire oven or spend hours baking.
If you loved our air fryer apple turnovers, you’re going to flip for these sweet potato beauties. Get ready to create a batch of handheld heaven that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
What Are Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hand Pies?
Ever wondered why we call them “hand pies” when they’re really just personal-sized pockets of pure bliss? It’s simple—they’re perfectly portable pastries you can hold in your hand without needing a fork or plate! These charming treats feature tender, spiced sweet potato filling wrapped in buttery pastry dough and crisped to golden perfection in your air fryer.
They’re like the cousin of a sweet potato pie but way more fun and shareable. As the old saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these hand pies are definitely the shortcut! Trust me, once you make your first batch, you’ll understand why they’ve become a fall favorite. Ready to get your hands on this recipe? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hand Pies Recipe
The Irresistible Sweet Potato Filling
The star of these hand pies is undoubtedly the luscious sweet potato filling. We’re talking about smooth, creamy sweet potatoes mixed with warm cinnamon, a hint of nutmeg, and just the right amount of brown sugar to create that caramelized sweetness. The filling practically melts in your mouth while the crispy pastry provides the perfect textural contrast. Each bite delivers that comforting warmth that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and a good book.
Budget-Friendly Homemade Goodness
Why spend money on expensive bakery hand pies when you can make better ones at home for a fraction of the cost? A batch of these beauties costs less than buying two from your local coffee shop, and you’ll get at least 8-10 hand pies depending on your size preference. Plus, you control exactly what goes into them—no preservatives, no questionable ingredients, just pure, wholesome goodness. Making these at home means more money in your pocket and more treats to share with loved ones.
Quick Air Fryer Magic
The air fryer transforms these hand pies from good to extraordinary. Instead of waiting 30-40 minutes in a conventional oven, your air fryer cooks them to crispy, golden perfection in just 10-12 minutes. The hot circulating air creates an incredibly flaky crust that rivals any deep-fried version, but with significantly less oil.
It’s healthier, faster, and cleanup is a breeze. If you enjoyed our air fryer pumpkin hand pies, this sweet potato version will become another staple in your repertoire. Ready to experience air fryer magic? Let’s get baking!
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hand Pies
Quick Overview
These air fryer sweet potato hand pies are surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner bakers. The recipe combines store-bought or homemade pastry dough with a velvety sweet potato filling that’s bursting with warm spices.
The filling comes together quickly on the stovetop, and the air fryer does the heavy lifting to create that irresistible golden crust. The best part? You’ll have fresh, warm hand pies ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yields: 8-10 hand pies
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hand Pies
For the Sweet Potato Filling:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1½ cups mashed)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
For the Hand Pies:
- 2 sheets refrigerated pie crust (or 1 package puff pastry)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
- Cooking spray or oil mister
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potato Filling
Start by cooking your sweet potatoes until they’re fork-tender. You have two options here: either poke holes in the sweet potatoes and microwave them for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, or bake them in a 400°F oven for 45 minutes. Once they’re cool enough to handle, scoop out the flesh and discard the skins.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add your mashed sweet potatoes and use a potato masher or fork to break down any lumps until smooth. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined and fragrant—your kitchen should smell amazing right now!
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the mixture and stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling so it doesn’t leak out of your hand pies during cooking. Once the filling has thickened slightly, remove from heat and let it cool completely. This is important—warm filling will melt the pastry and make it difficult to seal properly.
Prepare the Pastry Dough
While your filling cools, roll out your pie crust or puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. If you’re using refrigerated pie crust, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to make it easier to work with. Using a 4-inch round cookie cutter or the rim of a bowl, cut out circles from the dough. You should get about 16-20 circles depending on your size preference—remember, you’ll need two circles per hand pie.
Gather any scraps, gently press them together, re-roll, and cut more circles. Try not to overwork the dough, as this can make it tough. Place all your circles on a piece of parchment paper and keep them covered with a damp towel so they don’t dry out while you work.
Assemble the Hand Pies
Now comes the fun part—assembly! Beat your egg with one tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. This will help seal your hand pies and give them that beautiful golden color. Lay out half of your pastry circles on a clean work surface.
Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled sweet potato filling in the center of each circle, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges. Be careful not to overfill—too much filling and your hand pies will burst open during cooking. Using a pastry brush or your finger, brush the egg wash around the edges of each filled circle.
Place a second pastry circle on top of each filled one. Press down gently around the edges to seal, then use a fork to crimp the edges all the way around. This creates a tight seal and adds a pretty decorative touch. Use a sharp knife to cut 2-3 small slits in the top of each hand pie to allow steam to escape during cooking.
Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for about 3 minutes. While it’s heating, brush the tops of your hand pies with the remaining egg wash—this is what gives them that gorgeous golden-brown finish. Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, place 3-4 hand pies in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Overcrowding will prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the hand pies are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the cooked hand pies to a cooling rack and repeat with the remaining batches. Let them cool for about 5 minutes before adding the glaze—they’ll be extremely hot inside!
Make the Optional Glaze
While your hand pies cool slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. You want a thick but pourable consistency—add more milk if it’s too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin. Drizzle the glaze over the warm hand pies using a spoon or transfer it to a piping bag for more control.
The glaze will set as the hand pies cool completely, creating a sweet finishing touch that takes these from delicious to absolutely divine. If you prefer a lighter glaze, you can simply dust them with powdered sugar instead.
What to Serve Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hand Pies With
These versatile hand pies work beautifully for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. For a complete breakfast spread, serve them alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit. The savory elements balance the sweetness perfectly.
As a dessert, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of salted caramel sauce takes them to the next level. For an afternoon treat, enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or apple cider.
They also make wonderful additions to brunch spreads, holiday dessert tables, or bake sale offerings. Consider serving them with a cream cheese dipping sauce—just mix softened cream cheese with a bit of maple syrup and cinnamon for an indulgent accompaniment.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Sweet Potato Hand Pies
Cool Your Filling Completely
This cannot be stressed enough—warm filling will melt your pastry and make sealing nearly impossible. If you’re in a hurry, spread the filling on a plate and refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. Patient filling equals perfect pies!
Don’t Overfill Your Pies
It’s tempting to stuff as much filling as possible, but restraint is key here. One to two tablespoons is plenty. Overfilling causes bursting during cooking and creates a messy air fryer basket. Less is more!
Seal Thoroughly
Press out any air pockets as you seal your hand pies. Air trapped inside can cause them to puff up irregularly or burst. Use fork tines to really crimp those edges—you want a tight seal that won’t break during cooking.
Work in Batches
Never overcrowd your air fryer basket. The hot air needs to circulate freely around each hand pie for even cooking and optimal crispiness. Patience here pays off in perfectly golden results.
Adjust Temperature If Needed
Every air fryer is different. If your first batch browns too quickly, reduce the temperature to 340°F. If they’re not browning enough, increase to 360°F. Take notes for future batches!
Try Different Pastry Options
While pie crust works wonderfully, puff pastry creates an even flakier, lighter hand pie. Phyllo dough is another option for an ultra-crispy exterior. Experiment to find your favorite!
Enhance the Filling
Add mini chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or a cream cheese layer for variety. A tablespoon of maple syrup or a splash of bourbon can add sophisticated depth to the filling.
Make Them Ahead
Assemble your hand pies completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Room Temperature Storage
Fully cooled hand pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure they’re completely cool before storing to prevent condensation, which makes them soggy. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking.
Refrigerator Storage
For longer storage, keep your hand pies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The cool temperature helps maintain the filling’s quality and prevents spoilage. Bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before reheating for best results.
Freezer Storage
These hand pies freeze beautifully! Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Label with the date so you remember when you made them.
Reheating in the Air Fryer
The air fryer is perfect for reheating—it restores that crispy exterior beautifully. Preheat to 320°F and cook for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. If frozen, increase time to 8-10 minutes. No need to thaw first!
Reheating in the Oven
If you don’t have an air fryer handy, use your oven at 325°F for about 8-10 minutes. Place hand pies on a baking sheet and tent with foil if they’re browning too quickly. This method works great for reheating multiple hand pies at once.
Microwave Method
While not ideal for crispiness, the microwave works in a pinch. Heat on 50% power for 30-45 seconds. The pastry will be softer, but the filling will be perfectly warm. Place on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned sweet potato instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Canned sweet potato puree works perfectly and saves time. Use about 1½ cups of canned puree, making sure to drain any excess liquid. You may need slightly less cornstarch since canned is often thicker than fresh. Just avoid canned sweet potato pie filling, which already contains sugar and spices—stick with plain puree.
What’s the difference between sweet potatoes and yams for this recipe?
Despite common confusion, sweet potatoes and yams are different vegetables. For this recipe, you want sweet potatoes (the orange-fleshed variety). They’re sweeter, creamier, and more widely available in US grocery stores. True yams are starchier and less sweet, which won’t give you the same delicious results.
Can I make these hand pies vegan?
Yes! Use vegan butter in the filling and substitute the egg wash with plant-based milk or a mixture of oil and plant milk. Many store-bought pie crusts are accidentally vegan, but check the ingredients. The result is just as delicious and completely plant-based friendly.
Why did my hand pies burst open in the air fryer?
Bursting usually happens for three reasons: overfilling, inadequate sealing, or forgetting to cut steam vents. Make sure you’re using only 1-2 tablespoons of filling, pressing edges firmly together with fork tines, and cutting those important slits on top. Also ensure your filling is completely cool before assembling.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! The sweet potato filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually makes assembly day much quicker. Just make sure it’s completely chilled before using, which actually makes it easier to work with.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No problem! You can bake these in a conventional oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with egg wash. They’ll be just as delicious, though they might not get quite as crispy.
Can I use store-bought pie filling?
While you can use canned sweet potato pie filling in a pinch, homemade tastes significantly better and allows you to control the sweetness and spice levels. If using canned, look for one without too many additives, and you’ll likely need to add cornstarch to thicken it properly.
How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Ensure your filling is thick enough and completely cool. The cornstarch in the recipe helps prevent sogginess. Also, don’t skip preheating your air fryer—starting with a hot basket helps set the bottom crust immediately. Avoid letting assembled pies sit too long before cooking.
Can I make mini versions for parties?
Absolutely! Use a smaller cookie cutter (2-3 inches) and reduce the filling to about 1 teaspoon per pie. Cooking time will be shorter—check them at 7-8 minutes. Mini hand pies are perfect for entertaining and portion control.
What spices work best in the filling?
The classic combination is cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. However, you can experiment with pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, or even a touch of black pepper for complexity. Adjust the amounts to your taste preference—some people love heavy cinnamon, while others prefer a more balanced spice profile.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Hand Pie (Without Glaze) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 195mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Vitamin A | 85% DV |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV |
| Calcium | 2% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Values are for 1 hand pie out of 10 total.
Creative Variations to Try
Maple Pecan Sweet Potato Hand Pies
Add ¼ cup of chopped toasted pecans and 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup to your filling. Replace the vanilla glaze with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup. The nutty, caramel notes pair beautifully with sweet potato.
Chocolate Chip Sweet Potato Hand Pies
Fold ⅓ cup of mini chocolate chips into your cooled filling before assembling. The chocolate melts slightly during cooking, creating pockets of gooey deliciousness. Use a chocolate glaze instead of vanilla for double chocolate indulgence.
Cream Cheese Swirl Hand Pies
Mix 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Add a small dollop of cream cheese mixture on top of the sweet potato filling before sealing. This creates a tangy, creamy layer that cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
Savory Sweet Potato Hand Pies
Reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon and add ¼ cup of crumbled cooked bacon or sausage, plus a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Skip the glaze entirely. These make fantastic breakfast hand pies!
Final Thoughts
These air fryer sweet potato hand pies prove that impressive desserts don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With simple ingredients, minimal prep work, and the magic of your air fryer, you can create bakery-quality treats right in your own kitchen.
The combination of flaky pastry and spiced sweet potato filling is absolutely irresistible. They’re perfect for using up leftover sweet potatoes, meal prepping breakfast for the week, or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Whether you enjoy them warm from the air fryer with a scoop of ice cream or grab one on your way out the door in the morning, these hand pies deliver comfort and flavor in every bite. The best part? Once you master the basic recipe, you can experiment with endless variations to keep things interesting.
So preheat that air fryer, roll out that pastry, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite handheld treat. Your kitchen is about to smell like autumn, and your taste buds are in for a real treat. Happy baking!
