The Pumpkin Pie Recipe you’ve been searching for is here! This simple yet delicious dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving and other festive occasions. With its creamy filling and spiced flavor, this pie will impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds. Enjoy the aroma of cinnamon and cloves wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: This Pumpkin Pie recipe requires minimal effort with just a few ingredients, making it ideal for bakers of all levels.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves creates a warm, comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this pie fits perfectly into any celebration.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this pie a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its classic flavor profile, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch pie plate
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch pie plate: A standard size that ensures even baking and perfect portion sizes for serving.
- Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine ingredients smoothly without spilling.
- Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth filling for your pumpkin pie.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (see notes)
For the Filling
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can pumpkin puree (15 ounce)
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 ounce)
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Press your pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Use your thumb to flute the edges for an attractive finish.
Step 2: Mix the Filling Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Add in 2 large eggs, whisking until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Milk
Stir in:
1 can pumpkin puree (15 ounce)
1 can evaporated milk (12 ounce)
Mix until all ingredients are combined smoothly.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes. Cover the edges of the crust with foil or use a pie shield.
Lower the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for an additional 40-45 minutes. The pie is done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Pie!
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Serving your Pumpkin Pie Recipe can elevate the experience for everyone at your Thanksgiving table. There are many delightful ways to enjoy this classic dessert, and pairing it with the right toppings or sides can enhance its flavor.
Classic Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a sweet touch to pumpkin pie. You can use store-bought or make your own for an extra special treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the spices in the pumpkin pie perfectly. The cold ice cream balances the warm pie beautifully.
Caramel Sauce
- Drizzling caramel sauce over each slice introduces a rich sweetness that pairs well with the pumpkin flavors. It adds a decadent twist to the classic recipe.
Pecans or Walnuts
- Chopped nuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smooth filling of the pie. They also enhance the nutty flavors present in pumpkin pie.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting
- A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top offers an extra layer of flavor and an appealing appearance. This simple touch can elevate any slice of pie.
Fresh Berries
- Adding fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries provides a tart contrast that brightens up each bite. Their vibrant color also makes for an attractive presentation.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Perfecting your Pumpkin Pie Recipe is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.
Use Fresh Pumpkin: Fresh pumpkin puree gives a richer flavor compared to canned options. If using canned, choose high-quality brands for better taste.
Don’t Overbeat: When mixing ingredients, avoid overbeating eggs. This helps maintain a smooth texture without air bubbles forming in your filling.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the pie; it should come out clean when done. This ensures that your pie is perfectly baked.
Cool Properly: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set and prevents it from falling apart when served.
Store Correctly: Refrigerate leftovers promptly and cover them well. This keeps the pie fresh for up to four days.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Pie Recipe can create a memorable meal experience. Here are some great suggestions:
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements pumpkin beautifully, making them a perfect accompaniment.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of pumpkin pie.
Green Bean Casserole: This savory dish offers comforting flavors that balance out dessert well.
Stuffing: A classic Thanksgiving dish, stuffing adds savory notes that harmonize with sweet pumpkin flavors.
Apple Crisp: Another dessert option, apple crisp brings warmth and spice, making it a cozy pairing with pumpkin pie.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting side that pairs well with any holiday spread.
Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a slight bitterness that cuts through sweetness, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides another layer of sweetness while adding texture and flavor variety to your holiday table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a perfect pumpkin pie can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using a non-refrigerated crust: Always choose a refrigerated pie crust for a flaky and tender base. Homemade crusts can be difficult for beginners.
- Skipping the spices: Neglecting spices like cinnamon and ginger can lead to blandness. Ensure you measure them accurately for the best flavor.
- Overbaking the pie: Baking too long can cause cracks or dryness. Keep an eye on the pie after lowering the temperature to avoid this issue.
- Not cooling properly: Cutting into the pie while it’s still warm can ruin its texture. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
- Ignoring storage methods: Improper storage can affect freshness. Use airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pumpkin pie in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best results.
Reheating Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat slices for about 30 seconds, checking until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through, which preserves the crust’s texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this pumpkin pie recipe.
What is the best pumpkin puree to use for this recipe?
Any canned pumpkin puree works well, but Libby’s is a popular choice among bakers for its consistent texture and flavor.
Can I make this Pumpkin Pie Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This pumpkin pie can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when my pumpkin pie is done?
The pie is done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean, particularly from the center. The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the middle.
Can I customize my Pumpkin Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, change spices, or even mix in chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Pie Recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or toppings according to your preference. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with whipped cream, this delightful dessert will surely impress your guests this holiday season!
Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this classic Pumpkin Pie Recipe, a must-have dessert for any holiday gathering. With its creamy filling flavored with aromatic spices like cinnamon and ginger, this pie captures the essence of fall in every slice. Perfectly baked in a flaky crust, it’s simple enough for novice bakers yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Prepare it ahead of time to enjoy more quality moments with family and friends. Whether served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pumpkin pie is sure to become a cherished tradition at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 refrigerated pie crust
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate, fluting edges if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
- Add eggs and mix until combined.
- Stir in pumpkin puree and evaporated milk until smooth.
- Pour filling into the prepared crust and bake for 15 minutes.
- Lower oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
