I love this Easy Pumpkin Pie recipe, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy filling and delightful spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser at holidays or cozy family dinners. The best part? You can make it from scratch using canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree, allowing you to customize the flavors just the way you like them. This pie is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have all the ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to whip up anytime.
- Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a casual get-together, this pie fits right in.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and eggs creates a smooth filling that melts in your mouth.
- Quick Prep Time: With just 30 minutes of prep, you can have this pie ready to bake in no time.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Easy Pumpkin Pie, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your process and enhance your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie dish: A good-quality pie dish ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect crust.
- Mixing bowls: They allow you to easily combine all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk: This tool helps incorporate air into the filling, giving it a light texture.
Ingredients
I love this easy, homemade pumpkin pie recipe. You can use canned pumpkin or our homemade pumpkin puree to make a fresh pumpkin pie from scratch. I prefer a lightly spiced pie. For more spice, increase the cinnamon and ginger a little.
For the Crust
- 1 (9 inch) single crust homemade pie crust, our recipe makes enough for 2 single crust pies
For the Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (65g) light brown sugar
- 1 (15oz) can of pure pumpkin puree or 2 cups (440g) homemade pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup (175ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- Homemade whipped cream, for serving
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preparing your pie crust according to your favorite recipe or using a store-bought option if you’re short on time. Press it into your pie dish evenly.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial high temperature will help set the crust before lowering it for baking.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The eggs – whisk them until well beaten.
2. Add both sugars – granulated and brown – mixing until combined.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree.
4. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract.
5. Finally, add in all spices and salt; whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the pumpkin filling into your prepared pie crust, smoothing out with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 45 minutes or until set.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing. Serve with homemade whipped cream on top for an extra treat!
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie
Serving your Easy Pumpkin Pie can elevate the dessert experience at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, here are some delightful ways to present this classic treat.
With Homemade Whipped Cream
- Add a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream on top for a rich and creamy contrast to the smooth pie.
A Dusting of Cinnamon
- Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon over the whipped cream for an extra touch of warmth and spice.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Serve with slices of fresh apples or pears on the side to introduce a crisp texture that complements the pie’s softness.
Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a cool and creamy addition that balances out the flavors beautifully.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for added sweetness and an indulgent twist.
Spiced Nuts
- Offer a side of spiced pecans or walnuts to add crunch and enhance the autumn flavors of the pie.
How to Perfect Easy Pumpkin Pie
Creating the perfect Easy Pumpkin Pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality pumpkin puree make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Pre-bake the Crust: Consider pre-baking your pie crust for 5-10 minutes to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Check for Doneness: The pie is done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting your pie cool completely before serving allows the flavors to meld and enhances its texture.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Pumpkin Pie
Pairing your Easy Pumpkin Pie with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert table significantly. Here are some great options:
- Spiced Apple Cider
Warm spiced apple cider is perfect for fall gatherings, adding cozy flavors that match well with pumpkin. - Sweet Potato Casserole
This dish brings sweetness and a creamy texture, making it an excellent companion for pumpkin pie. - Roasted Brussels Sprouts
The slight bitterness of roasted Brussels sprouts contrasts nicely with the sweetness of pumpkin pie. - Green Bean Almondine
The crunchiness of green beans topped with almonds adds freshness to balance out richer dessert flavors. - Autumn Salad
A salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and nuts offers a refreshing bite alongside your pumpkin treat. - Gingerbread Cookies
For those who love spice, gingerbread cookies provide a festive touch that pairs well with pumpkin desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an easy pumpkin pie can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Using the wrong type of pumpkin: Not all pumpkins are created equal. Always opt for pure pumpkin puree instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that may not align with your recipe.
- Skipping the crust pre-bake: If you’re using a homemade pie crust, don’t forget to pre-bake it. This step ensures that your crust remains flaky and doesn’t become soggy from the filling.
- Overmixing the filling: Mixing the filling too much can introduce air, leading to cracks during baking. Stir just until combined for a smooth texture.
- Not checking doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or overcooked pies. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.
- Neglecting to cool properly: Allowing your pie to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This helps set the filling and makes for cleaner slices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your easy pumpkin pie covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Pumpkin Pie
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Easy Pumpkin Pie
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm. Be cautious not to overheat as it can make the crust chewy.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to warm evenly without burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making an easy pumpkin pie:
How do I make my Easy Pumpkin Pie more flavorful?
You can enhance flavor by adding more spices like cinnamon and nutmeg or using freshly grated ginger instead of ground ginger for a more robust taste.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin will give you that homemade touch. Just ensure you measure out enough puree as specified in the recipe.
What can I serve with Easy Pumpkin Pie?
Homemade whipped cream is a classic topping, but you could also consider serving it with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for added sweetness.
How long does Easy Pumpkin Pie last?
When stored correctly, your easy pumpkin pie can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare your easy pumpkin pie a day or two before serving. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Final Thoughts
This easy pumpkin pie recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or just a cozy dessert at home. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and toppings based on your preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy every slice!
Easy Pumpkin Pie
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this Easy Pumpkin Pie, a delightful dessert perfect for any gathering. With its luscious filling made from creamy pumpkin puree and aromatic spices, this homemade pie brings a touch of autumn to your table. Easy to prepare using pantry staples, it allows for personalized flavor adjustments to suit your taste. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, this pumpkin pie is sure to impress with its rich texture and beautiful presentation.
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (9 inch) single crust homemade pie crust
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 (15oz) can pure pumpkin puree or 2 cups homemade pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust and press it into a pie dish evenly.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, both sugars, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, vanilla extract, spices, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 45 minutes until set.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. Serve with homemade whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For more spice, increase the amount of cinnamon and ginger. Consider pre-baking your crust for added flakiness. Letting the pie cool completely enhances its texture.
