This Pumpkin Pie recipe is perfect for fall celebrations and adds warmth to your Thanksgiving table. With its creamy filling and flaky crust, it captures the essence of autumn. Easy to make with just 12 ingredients, this pie stands out for its rich flavors and delightful spices. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced chef, this recipe makes it simple to impress your guests with a homemade dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This Pumpkin Pie comes together quickly, making it suitable even for busy schedules.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg gives this pie a warm, comforting taste that defines the season.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as a classic dessert at Thanksgiving or serve it at autumn gatherings. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or ice cream!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves 12, ensuring there’s enough for everyone to enjoy.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the pie in advance, allowing you more time to spend with family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Pumpkin Pie, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are the essential items you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie dish: A good-quality pie dish ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect crust.
- Mixing bowls: Having different sizes allows for easy mixing of ingredients without any mess.
- Rolling pin: This tool is essential for achieving a smooth, thin crust that bakes evenly.
- Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the filling, resulting in a light texture.
Ingredients
This homemade pumpkin pie recipe is a must-have for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving. You only need 12 ingredients, and it’s quick and easy to make.
For the Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
- 4-6 tbsp cold water
For the Filling
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- pinch of all-spice
- pinch of ground cloves
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pumpkin Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water until dough forms.
- Shape dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s ready when your pie is assembled.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches wide.
- Carefully transfer it to your pie dish and trim any excess crust hanging over the edges.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, all-spice, and cloves until smooth.
Step 5: Fill the Crust
Pour the filling mixture into your prepared crust evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes or until set.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Allow your pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Serve as is or topped with whipped cream!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious homemade Pumpkin Pie, perfect for any autumn occasion!
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie
Serving pumpkin pie is an art that enhances its delightful flavors. Whether for a holiday gathering or just a cozy evening, these serving suggestions will elevate your pumpkin pie experience.
Classic Whipped Cream
- This timeless topping adds a light and airy texture that complements the rich pumpkin filling perfectly.
Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast to the warm spices in pumpkin pie, creating a deliciously decadent treat.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle
- Pouring caramel sauce over your slice adds a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the spiced pumpkin.
Crushed Nuts Topping
- Sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that enhances every bite.
Fresh Berries
- Raspberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness and color, balancing out the richness of the pie.
Chocolate Shavings
- For chocolate lovers, adding chocolate shavings offers an indulgent twist that complements the flavors of pumpkin and spices.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Pie
Creating the perfect pumpkin pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spices and high-quality pumpkin puree can significantly enhance flavor.
- Pre-bake your crust: A pre-baked crust helps prevent sogginess and keeps your pie crust flaky.
- Check for doneness: The pie should be set but slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
- Cool completely: Allowing your pumpkin pie to cool completely enhances its flavors and makes for easier slicing.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels based on personal preference for an even more customized taste.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Pie
Pairing side dishes with pumpkin pie can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These savory sprouts add a nice crunch and earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the pie.Sweet Potato Casserole
This dish offers a similar flavor profile with added sweetness from marshmallows or brown sugar toppings.Green Bean Almondine
The crisp green beans with toasted almonds provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pumpkin flavors.Stuffing
A savory stuffing complements the sweetness of pumpkin pie, making it a classic Thanksgiving pairing.Cranberry Sauce
The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the pie, enhancing each bite’s overall taste.Apple Crisp
Another dessert option, apple crisp’s warm spices pair nicely with pumpkin, creating a comforting duo.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pumpkin pie can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
Using warm ingredients: Always use cold butter and cold water for the crust. This helps create a flaky texture.
Overmixing the dough: When making the pie crust, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough crust.
Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for both dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
Skipping the chill time: After preparing your pie crust, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent shrinking during baking.
Ignoring spices: Don’t overlook the importance of spices in pumpkin pie. Adjust them according to your taste for a more flavorful result.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pumpkin pie in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Pumpkin Pie
- Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- Frozen pumpkin pie can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Pumpkin Pie
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 30 seconds or until warmed, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover and warm each slice for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions
How long does pumpkin pie last in the fridge?
Pumpkin pie can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze pumpkin pie?
Yes! You can freeze pumpkin pie for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer.
What is the best way to reheat pumpkin pie?
The best way to reheat pumpkin pie is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method keeps it evenly warm without becoming soggy.
Can I make pumpkin pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake your pumpkin pie ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve.
Is homemade pumpkin puree better than canned?
Homemade pumpkin puree can offer a fresher taste, but canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistently yields good results in recipes like pumpkin pie.
Final Thoughts
This homemade pumpkin pie recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any fall gathering or Thanksgiving celebration. You can customize it with additional spices or even add toppings like whipped cream or nuts. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a slice of autumn bliss!

Pumpkin Pie
Indulge in the quintessential taste of fall with this delightful homemade Pumpkin Pie. A staple at Thanksgiving and autumn gatherings, this pie features a luscious, creamy filling infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all nestled in a perfectly flaky crust. With just 12 simple ingredients, the recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you serve it plain or topped with whipped cream or ice cream, this Pumpkin Pie is sure to impress your guests and bring warmth to your table. Make ahead for convenience, and enjoy a slice of autumn bliss!
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
- 4–6 tbsp cold water
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Pinch of all-spice
- Pinch of ground cloves
Instructions
- Prepare the crust by combining flour, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until the dough forms. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle about 12 inches wide and transfer to a pie dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and spices until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until set.
- Allow cooling completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Use fresh spices for enhanced flavor. Consider pre-baking the crust for an extra flaky texture. Customize spice levels according to taste preferences.