Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cream cheese-pudding filling can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using, and allow it to come to room temperature for easier spreading.

Why did my pie filling leak out during baking?

This typically happens when the edges aren't sealed properly or there's too much filling. Make sure to press firmly with a fork along all edges and avoid overfilling. If needed, use a bit of water along the edges before sealing to help them stick better.

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?

Definitely! Homemade pie crust works wonderfully in this recipe. Roll it to about 1/8-inch thickness and follow the same instructions for cutting and filling. You might find the homemade version even flakier!

My glaze is too thick/thin. How do I fix it?

For glaze that's too thick, add milk just a few drops at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it's too thin, add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until it thickens up. The perfect glaze should coat the back of a spoon but still be fluid enough to drizzle.

McDonald's Holiday Pie Recipe

Description

McDonald’s Holiday Pie is a delightful festive dessert featuring a creamy vanilla pudding and cream cheese filling encased in a flaky pie crust, baked or air-fried until golden brown. Topped with a sweet glaze and colorful sprinkles, these hand pies are easy to make and perfect for the holiday season.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Pies

4 (9-inch) uncooked pie crusts
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding
1/4 cup yellow or white cake mix, dry
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Egg Wash

1 large egg
1 tablespoon water

Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 to 4 tablespoons milk
Christmas sprinkles, optional

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Instructions

Prep Oven & Baking Sheets – If using the oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
Mix Pudding & Cake Mix – In a medium bowl, whisk together instant vanilla pudding, dry cake mix, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside for later use.
Prepare Cream Cheese Filling – In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add in the prepared pudding mixture and blend until thoroughly combined, creating a rich and creamy filling.
Prepare Pie Crusts – Unroll each pie crust gently. Trim off the rounded edges to create one large square from each crust. Cut each square in half to form a large rectangle for pie assembly.
Fill & Seal Pies – Spoon a portion of the filling into the center of each rectangle. Fold the dough over the filling to enclose it, creating a pocket. Seal the edges by pressing a fork along all sides to prevent leakage.
Add Egg Wash – Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of each pie for a glossy, golden finish.
Bake or Air Fry – Oven: Place pies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 13 to 15 minutes until golden brown. Air Fryer: Lightly grease air fryer and air fry 2 pies at a time at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes, repeating with remaining pies.
Prepare & Add Glaze – In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk, adding more milk a little at a time until a thick but drizzle-able glaze forms. Drizzle glaze over warm pies.
Decorate & Serve – Sprinkle glazed pies with Christmas sprinkles if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy your festive treat!

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for a smooth filling.
The pies can be frozen after assembling and baked straight from the freezer; add a few minutes to baking time.
Customize the sprinkles for different holidays or occasions.
Use caution not to overfill pies to prevent leaking during baking or air frying.
Store leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for freshness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pie
Calories: 533 kcal
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 443mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 67g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg