Classic Pumpkin Pie Recipe – Rich, Creamy & Perfect for Fall Desserts
Craving the perfect fall dessert? This homemade pumpkin pie is just what you need. Rich, creamy, and spiced to perfection, it’s an autumn favorite that never disappoints. Made with simple ingredients and a buttery crust, this pie is both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating your family to a cozy dessert, this recipe is a must-try. Ideal for busy moms, beginner bakers, and anyone who loves a classic dessert with a seasonal twist. Get ready to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
What Makes This Recipe So Good?
- Rich Flavor: The combination of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a comforting and aromatic experience.
- Creamy Texture: The filling is velvety smooth, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- Buttery Crust: A flaky, buttery crust adds the perfect balance to the rich filling, providing a satisfying crunch.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, even beginner bakers can achieve great results.
- Seasonal Appeal: This pie captures the essence of fall, making it an ideal dessert for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any autumn gathering.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, topped with whipped cream, or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A classic dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This pie can be prepared in advance, saving time and stress on the day of your event.
- Pantry Staples: Utilizes common ingredients, making it easy to whip up without a last-minute grocery run.
- Nostalgic Comfort: Brings back fond memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations, adding warmth to any occasion.
Key Ingredients
- Pumpkin Puree — Provides the rich, earthy flavor and vibrant orange color, giving the pie its identity.
- Sugar — Adds sweetness to balance the spices and enhance the natural flavors of the pumpkin.
- Brown Sugar — Contributes a deeper, caramel-like flavor and moisture, enriching the overall taste.
- Eggs — Acts as a binding agent, giving the filling structure and helping it set to a creamy consistency.
- Evaporated Milk — Adds creaminess and richness without excess moisture, creating a smooth filling.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger) — Provide a warm, aromatic flavor profile that enhances the pie's taste.
- Vanilla Extract — Adds depth and enhances sweetness, rounding out the flavors.
- Salt — Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors, making the pie more flavorful.
- Pie Crust (store-bought or homemade) — Provides a buttery, flaky base that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.
Chefs Helpful Tips
- Use Fresh Pumpkin: If you want to elevate the flavor, consider using fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Roast and puree your own pumpkin for a richer taste.
- Chill the Pie Crust: If you’re using a homemade pie crust, chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before filling. This helps prevent shrinking during baking.
- Prevent Crust Burning: If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil to protect them while the pie continues to bake.
- Check for Doneness: The pie is done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools.
- Let it Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2-3 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly and enhances the flavor.
- Flavor Boost: For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon or maple syrup to the filling mixture.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Some people enjoy adding allspice or a pinch of cloves for a more complex flavor.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover pumpkin pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage; wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container.
- Serve with Whipped Cream: Enhance your pumpkin pie experience by serving it with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch.
More Sweet Treats To Check Out…
Craving the perfect fall dessert? This homemade pumpkin pie is just what you need. Rich, creamy, and spiced to perfection, it’s an autumn favorite that never disappoints. Made with simple ingredients and a buttery crust, this pie is both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating your family to a cozy dessert, this recipe is a must-try. Ideal for busy moms, beginner bakers, and anyone who loves a classic dessert with a seasonal twist. Get ready to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
- 15 oz Pumpkin Puree (1 can)
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 cup Evaporated Milk
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 Pie Crust (9-inch, store-bought or homemade)
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Prepare the Pie Crust
If using a store-bought pie crust, place it in a 9-inch pie dish. If making a homemade crust, roll it out and fit it into the dish, then crimp the edges as desired.
- Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Add the Eggs
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the pumpkin mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Incorporate the Milk and Spices
Gradually mix in the evaporated milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the filling is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the Filling
Carefully pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Pie
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 2-3 hours. This allows the filling to set properly.
- Serve
Once cooled, slice the pie and serve it plain or with whipped cream for an extra treat. Enjoy!
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 300kcal
- Calories from Fat 110kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 250mg11%
- Potassium 200mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 40g14%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 18g
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.