Winter is the season of comfort. As temperatures drop and days grow shorter, we are more into warmth cravings, and our temptations for food shift toward hearty, nourishing meals that warm the body and soothe the soul. If you’re looking to fill your kitchen with rich aromas and your table with flavorful dishes, there’s no better place to start than the pasty. Yes, the humble hand pie that has stood the test of time and seasons.
The pasty, with its golden crust and deeply satisfying fillings, has long been a winter staple in regions like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. While its origins trace back to the Cornish miners who brought it to America, today it continues to thrive not only as a local tradition but also as a symbol of family, community, and resilience.
Mercedes Kelly beautifully captures this essence in her book Happiness in a Hand Pie: The Pasty Cookbook, featuring over 20 variations of pasties. From savory to sweet and breakfast to dessert, this cookbook is a treasure trove of cold-weather inspiration that skillfully combines heritage, storytelling, and practical cooking for real-life winter routines.
Take, for instance, a classic winter pasty featuring tender beef, root vegetables like rutabaga and carrot, and mild seasoning wrapped in flaky pastry. It’s the kind of dish that fills the room with warmth before it even hits the plate. But Mercedes doesn’t stop there. The book includes creative takes like Southwest pasties, chicken and cheese blends, and vegetarian options that allow you to explore different flavors while staying cozy.
What makes pasties especially ideal for winter is their make-ahead convenience. Whether you’re managing busy school schedules, prepping for guests, or simply trying to make your week easier, these meals can be made in batches, frozen, and reheated when needed. Mercedes provides clear instructions for freezing and reheating, ensuring that the quality and taste stay intact. One baking session on a Sunday can give you warm, filling lunches and dinners all week long.
Winter is also a perfect time to explore the sweet side of pasties. In Happiness in a Hand Pie, Mercedes shares recipes for fruit-filled versions using apples, blueberries, and cherries—all ingredients that reflect the nostalgic warmth of winter desserts. These hand pies are perfect for snowy afternoons with a cup of tea or served warm after dinner with a spoonful of ice cream.
And let’s not forget the chutneys. The book also includes homemade chutneys that pair beautifully with both savory and sweet pasties, adding depth and brightness to your meals. From apple and cranberry to peach and blueberry, these spreads elevate each bite and can also be used with meats, cheeses, or bread. This makes them versatile winter pantry staples.
Perhaps most importantly, cooking pasties in the winter encourages connection. The process, from mixing the dough to chopping vegetables, folding the crust, and brushing with egg wash, all contributes to a perfect family activity involving kids or guests. This shared preparation creates warmth that extends beyond the oven. It’s about being together, making something meaningful, and passing down a lasting tradition.
So, if you’re looking for a cookbook to guide you through the cold season, Happiness in a Hand Pie is the perfect companion. It offers comfort, culture, and a way to make winter just a little bit warmer with delicious homemade pasties that are pure love.
Head to Amazon to purcahse your copy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F7GPGCM9/.
