As the autumn leaves change colour, Pumpkin Pie season arrives, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia and anticipation. the comforting aroma of Pumpkin pie fills the air, tempting culinary enthusiasts to indulge in this quintessential fall dessert. From its humble origins to its place as a staple on holiday tables, Pumpkin Pie holds a special place in the hearts of many.
![Pumpkin Pie](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie.jpg)
Behind its simple appearance, Pumpkin Pie holds a rich history dating back centuries. Early American settlers incorporated local ingredients into their cooking, and this humble dish has evolved into an iconic symbol of the fall season. Its velvety smooth pumpkin puree and warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create an irresistible symphony of flavours that perfectly captures the essence of autumn.
The magic lies not only in its delicious flavour, but also in the experience of making it. From the moment you select the perfect pumpkin to the final whiff of its warm, inviting aroma, each step of the process is a journey through the senses. The precise balance of spices, the buttery, flaky crust, and the ritual of mixing, pouring, and baking all contribute to the creation of this quintessential fall dessert.
Pumpkin Pie is more than just a dessert; it is a tradition. It is a symbol of family, community, and the changing seasons. It is a reminder that even the simplest things can be truly special.
![Pumpkin Pie recipe](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-recipe.jpg)
Its arrival at the table signifies the start of the festive season, evoking memories of cozy gatherings, heartfelt conversation, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. The golden-brown crust and creamy, spiced filling evoke a sense of comfort and warmth that transcends generations.
You'll adore this Pumpkin Pie recipe for its rich, velvety texture and perfectly balanced blend of warm spices that evoke the essence of autumn with every bite. The smooth, creamy pumpkin filling, delicately infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of cloves, delivers a comforting and nostalgic flavor profile that embodies the spirit of the season. Topped with a flaky, buttery crust that adds a delightful crunch to each forkful, this is a timeless classic that promises to bring warmth and joy to any gathering or holiday celebration.
![Pumpkin Pie slice](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-slice.jpg)
Whether enjoyed at a bustling Thanksgiving table or savored in the solitude of a cozy home, Pumpkin Pie offers a slice of heaven, a taste of magic, and a reminder that even the simplest things can be truly special.
There are a few more dessert recipes like Pumpkin Cheesecake, Lemon Meringue Tart and Strawberry Tiramisu Cake on this site.
Jump to:
- ⭐Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- 🧾Ingredients Needed & Substitutions
- 📖Variations of Pumpkin Pie
- 👩🏻🍳How to Make Pumpkin Pie
- 🔪Kitchen Tools Required
- ❄️How to Store, Freeze, Defrost and Serve
- 💭Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie
- ❓Frequently Asked Questions for Pumpkin Pie
- 🍰More Dessert Recipes!
- 🎥Video
- 📖 Recipe
- 💬 Comments
⭐Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Homemade Pumpkin Pie is an ideal dessert in the Autumn season and here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- Uses Basic Ingredients: All the ingredients for making Pumpkin Pie are basic pantry or fridge staples.
- Simple and Easy to Make: In a few simple steps, you will have the pie and freshly whipped cream done. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner bakers.
- Incredible Flavour: This recipe is made with real pumpkin puree, spices and a flaky pie crust, resulting in a delicious and flavourful pumpkin pie.
- Versatile: This recipe can be easily customized to your liking. You can add different spices, such as allspice, to change the flavour of the pie. You can also add nuts, chocolate chips, cranberry or other toppings to the pie.
- Make in Advance: Make the Pumpkin Pie 1 day ahead of time. Keep it in the fridge until ready to serve and eat.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for sharing with friends and family.
- Perfect Dessert or Treat: For Autumn months.
- Suitable for Any Occasion: Birthday parties, Thanksgiving, Christmas, afternoon tea, holidays, brunch, lunch, dinner, etc.
If you want more desserts you should check out Strawberry Tart and Banana Pudding.
🧾Ingredients Needed & Substitutions
Ingredients for this recipe are simple. Here is a list of everything you need:
![Pumpkin Pie Ingredients](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Ingredients-1.jpg)
For Pumpkin Pie:
- Pie Dough: For a tender and flaky pie crust with a buttery flavour.
- Sugar: For sweetness.
- Cinnamon: Boasts a warm and sweet flavour with aromatic undertones.
- Egg: Gives the golden colour to the crust and acts as a glue.
- Water: It helps to dilute the egg for egg wash.
- Pumpkin Puree: Add a fresh and authentic pumpkin flavor and smooth and creamy consistency to the pie.
- Ginger: Season the mixture, which provides a pungent and slightly spicy kick, with a subtle citrusy and warm sweetness to the pie.
- Nutmeg: Season the mixture, which provides warmer and nuttier notes to the pie.
- Clove: Season the mixture, which provides a warm and aromatic essence with a slightly sweet and peppery undertone, accompanied by a subtle hint of bitterness.
- White Pepper: To season the mixture, that provides a sharp and pungent flavour. Adds a spicy, slightly hot kick to the pie.
- Orange Zest: To season the mixture, that provides a refreshing and tangy essence, with a delightful balance between sweetness and subtle bitterness.
- Salt: Adds a depth of flavour to the pie.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: For sweetness and wonderfully soft, smooth and creamy texture. It also helps to stabilize and thicken the pie.
- Egg: Give the smooth silky creamy texture. The egg should be at room temperature.
For Vanilla Whipped Cream:
- Double Cream: Should be cold for whipping up and holding volume. Add the creamy texture, body and flavour.
- Icing Sugar: For sweetness.
- Vanilla paste: For flavour.
Here are some substitutions for a classic Pumpkin Pie recipe:
- Crust Alternatives: For a Pumpkin Pie that is sure to impress your guests try using a graham cracker crust, ginger snap crust, or crushed pecan crust for a delicious and unique twist.
- Water: You can substitute the water for milk.
- Sweeteners: To add a layer of richness and complexity to your Pumpkin Pie, try using brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
- Spice Variations: Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices in your Pumpkin Pie. Allspice and cardamom are great ways to tailor the flavour profiles to your liking and add a unique twist to your dish.
- Cream Alternatives: For a dairy-free Pumpkin Pie that is just as creamy, delicious and luxurious texture as the traditional version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Egg Replacements: To make a vegan Pumpkin Pie, use a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of silken tofu and cornstarch to bind the filling and give it the perfect texture.
With these substitutions, you can create a Pumpkin Pie that is sure to please everyone, regardless of their dietary restrictions or taste preferences, making this cherished seasonal dessert accessible to all.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
📖Variations of Pumpkin Pie
There are numerous creative variations that can add exciting twists to this classic dessert.
Here are a few ideas for a Pumpkin Pie variation:
- Pecan Streusel Pumpkin Pie: To create a truly memorable experince, top it with a buttery pecan streusel for a delightful crunch and a delectable contrast in texture and flavor.
- Maple Pecan Pumpkin Pie: For a sweet and nutty pie, add maple syrup and pecans to the filling.
- Coconut Pumpkin Pie: For a tropical twist add coconut milk and shredded coconut to the filling.
- Spiced Whipped Cream Pumpkin Pie: Pair it with a dollop of spiced whipped cream infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for an extra layer of seasonal delight.
- Pumpkin Chai Pie: Just add add the warm aromatic spices of chai tea, such as cardamom, ginger, and cloves, to the filling for a nuanced and flavourful twist.
- Chocolate Pumpkin Pie: For a chocolate version that is both rich and decadent, add cocoa powder and chocolate chips to the filling.
- Chocolate Swirl Pumpkin Pie: For a decadent and delightful fusion of chocolatey indulgence and classic pumpkin flavours, create a marbled effect by swirling in layers of rich, melted chocolate into the pumpkin filling.
- Nutella Swirl Pumpkin Pie: This variation incorporates a decadent swirl of Nutella, adding a touch of hazelnut and chocolate to the classic Pumpkin Pie.
- Cookies and Cream Oreo Pumpkin Pie: A delicious and creative twist on the classic, infused with the iconic cookies and cream flavour.
- Chili Praline Pumpkin Pie: For those who crave a bit of spice, this variation adds chili to the mix, elevating your Pumpkin Pie to a new level.
- Bruleed White Chocolate Amaretti Pumpkin Pie: This sophisticated variation elevates the classic Pumpkin Pie with bruleed white chocolate and amaretti, an Italian almond cookie, adding a touch of luxury and refinement.
- Vegan Pumpkin Pie: Silken tofu gives this pie its rich and creamy texture.
- Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie: Transform your Pumpkin Pie into a truly unique and delicious dessert by creating a layered pie with a layer of pumpkin cheesecake and a layer of Pumpkin Pie filling.
- Pumpkin Cheesecake with Bourbon-Sour Cream Topping: This luxurious Pumpkin Pie variation features elements of a cheesecake, for a truly decadent and indulgent dessert experience.
- Mini Pumpkin Pies: Transform your Pumpkin Pie into individual treats by making them in mini pie crusts or ramekins. These are perfect for parties or potlucks.
- Pumpkin Pie Bars: Whether you are hosting a party or bringing a dessert to a potluck, Pumpkin Pie Bars are a great option. They are easy to make and transport, and they are sure to be a hit with everyone.
By exploring these variations, you can elevate the Pumpkin Pie experience, infusing it with new and exciting flavours that cater to a variety of taste preferences and culinary adventures.
Get creative and make a Pumpkin Pie variation by adding and experimenting with different ingredients. Get it your own twist!
👩🏻🍳How to Make Pumpkin Pie
This step by step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.
How to Make the Pumpkin Pie Crust:
![Pumpkin Pie Process 1](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-1.jpg)
1: Brush the bottom and side of the pan with oil.
![Pumpkin Pie Process 2](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-2.jpg)
2: Place one sheet of prepared pie dough in a 9-inch pie plate and gently press into the corners and up the sides of the pan.
![Pumpkin Pie Process 3](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-3.jpg)
3: Trim any access dough hanging over the edges. Crimp the edges.
![Pumpkin Pie Process 4](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-4.jpg)
4: Place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
![Pumpkin Pie Process 5](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-5.jpg)
5: To prevent the pie crust from shrinking, prick the bottom of it with a fork. Preheat the oven to 190 ˚C(375 degrees ˚F) or 170 ˚C with a fan.
![Pumpkin Pie Process 6](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-6.jpg)
6: Place the parchment paper and aluminum foil with the weights in the pie.
![Pumpkin Pie Process 7](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-7.jpg)
7: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for around 10-15 minutes. Then, remove the parchment paper and aluminum foil with the weights, and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes or until the bottom of the crust is just turning brown.
![Pumpkin Pie Process 8](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-8.jpg)
8: Remove from the oven. Allow the baked crust to cool completely on a wire rack before adding any fillings. This ensures that the crust maintains its crisp texture and does not become soggy.
How to Make the Pumpkin Pie Filling:
![Pumpkin Pie Process 9](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-9.jpg)
1: In a large bowl, add pumpkin puree, condensed milk, eggs, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, ground black pepper, orange zest and salt and then whisk until everything is combined.
![Process 10](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-10.jpg)
2: Pour pumpkin pie filling into the pie shell.
![Process 11](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-11.jpg)
3: To create an egg wash, whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl until smooth. This will give your baked goods a beautiful golden brown finish.
![Process 12](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-12.jpg)
4: Brush the edges of the pie gently with egg wash.
![Process 13](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-13.jpg)
5: Place it in the preheated oven to 150 c FAN(350 degrees F). Bake for 65 minutes, or until the pie is just set. A small part of the center of the pie will be wobbly.
![Process 14](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-14.jpg)
6: Once done, remove the pie from the oven, transfer it to a wire rack, let it cool until room temperature and then place it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Whipped Cream:
![Process 15](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-15.jpg)
1: Whisk the cream, sugar and vanilla to soft peaks.
Assembly:
![Pumpkin Pie Process 16](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-Process-16.jpg)
1: Just before serving, top with vanilla whipped cream and serve immediately.
🔪Kitchen Tools Required
Check out all of my kitchen essentials in my Amazon Store!
Here is a list of kitchen utensils that you will need.
- Brush
- Pie dish
- Ceramic Baking Beans
- Gloves
- Cooling Rack
- Big bowl
- Small Bowl
- Whisk
- Piping Bag
- Pie Server
❄️How to Store, Freeze, Defrost and Serve
Pumpkin Pie is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored with some precautions to maintain its creamy texture and flavour.
Here is how you can manage its storage:
Storing:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to eat within two hours, you can leave it out at room temperature.
- Refrigeration: To keep it fresh and delicious for longer, store it in the refrigerator, loosely covered with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing:
- Pre-freeze: First allow it to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Wrap Securely: Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring it is airtight, or place it in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
- Label and Date: Clearly label the package with the date of freezing to keep track of its freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Defrosting:
- Refrigerator: Thraw the frozen Pumpkin Pie in the refrigerator overnight, allowing it to slowly come to temperature.
- Oven: Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen Pumpkin Pie in the oven at 175 °C (350 °F) for 15-20 minutes or until it is heated through.
Serving Pumpkin Pie: When serving consider the following suggestions to enhance the experience:
- Garnish with Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for a creamy and luxurious touch.
- Sprinkle with Cinnamon: For a touch of warmth and aroma, lightly dust the whipped cream or the surface of the pie with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: Pair your Pumpkin Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful mix of hot and cold elements, perfectly balancing the warmth of the pie with the coolness of the ice cream.
- Serve with Fresh Berries: To add a touch of freshness and sweetness to your Pumpkin Pie, serve it with a side of fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries.
- Pair with Hot Beverages: Serve the Pumpkin pie alongside a cup of hot coffee, tea, or spiced cider to create a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavours.
![Pumpkin Pie serve](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-serve.jpg)
By following these tip, you can ensure that your Pumpkin Pie stay fresh and delicious, so you can enjoy it whenever you are in the mood for a sweet treat. You can elevate the enjoyment of Pumpkin Pie and create a delightful and satisfying dessert experience for yourself and your guests.
💭Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie
Here are some tips to help you make this delicious dessert:
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality pumpkin puree and spices to guarantee a richly flavored and authentic Pie.
Prebake the Crust: Prebaking the pie crust for a few minutes before adding the filling can help prevent a soggy bottom.
Ensure Proper Spice Balance: For a dessert that is both sweet and flavourful, achieve a perfect balance of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Strain the Filling: To achieve a velvety texture and professional-looking finish, strain the Pumpkin filling before pouring it into the crust.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the pie while baking, and use a toothpick to test the center for doneness. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry and cracked pie.
Cool Properly: To ensure that your Pumpkin Pie has the best texture and flavour, allow it to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating it to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
By following these tips, you can bake a Pumpkin Pie that is sure to be the star of your next dessert table.
❓Frequently Asked Questions for Pumpkin Pie
Here are some commonly asked questions about making homemade Pumpkin Pie:
To prevent your Pie from cracking, don't overbake it. Take it out of the oven when the center is still slightly jiggly, as it will continue to set as it cools. You can also try placing a pan of hot water on the rack below the pie while it is baking to create a more humid environment, which will help to prevent cracking.
If you are looking for a way to elevate your result, try using fresh pumpkin puree. To make your own, roast a pumpkin until tender, scoop out the flesh, and puree it in a blender or food processor. Be sure to drain the puree well before using it in your pie filling for a smoother texture and richer flavour.
To ensure that your dessert stays fresh and moist for 3-4 days, store it in the refrigerator, loosely covered with foil or plastic wrap.
Pumpkin Pie can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To do so, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a resealable plastic bag o airtight container.
Store-bought pie crusts can be a great way to save time and effort, especially if you are new to baking. Just be sure to follow the package instructions carefully.
🍰More Dessert Recipes!
Here are more of my favorite dessert recipes! Try these:
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🎥Video
This video will show you the details and step-by-step instructions for making this fantastic recipe!
📖 Recipe
![Pumpkin Pie](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Pumpkin-Pie-360x360.jpg)
Pumpkin Pie
Ingredients
Pumpkin Pie
- 1 package pie dough (2 circles) - 1 for the pie, 1 for leaf decor
- 50 g sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
- 425 g pumpkin puree - 1 can
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp cloves
- ⅛ tsp white pepper
- ½ tsp orange zest
- ½ tsp salt
- 398 g sweetened condensed milk - 1 can
- 2 eggs
Vanilla Whipped Cream
- 120 ml double cream
- 2 teaspoon icing sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Instructions
How to Make the Pumpkin Pie Crust
- Brush the bottom and side of the pan with oil.
- Place one sheet of prepared pie dough in a 9-inch pie plate and gently press into the corners and up the sides of the pan.
- Trim any access dough hanging over the edges. Crimp the edges.
- Place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.
- To prevent the pie crust from shrinking, prick the bottom of it with a fork. Preheat the oven to 190 ˚C(375 degrees ˚F) or 170 ˚C with a fan.
- Place the parchment paper and aluminum foil with the weights in the pie.
- Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for around 10-15 minutes. Then, remove the parchment paper and aluminum foil with the weights, and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes or until the bottom of the crust is just turning brown.
- Remove from the oven. Allow the baked crust to cool completely on a wire rack before adding any fillings. This ensures that the crust maintains its crisp texture and does not become soggy.
How to Make the Pumpkin Pie Filling
- In a large bowl, add pumpkin puree, eggs, condensed milk, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, ground black pepper, orange zest and salt and then whisk until everything is combined.
- Pour pumpkin pie filling into the pie shell.
- To create an egg wash, whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl until smooth. This will give your baked goods a beautiful golden brown finish.
- Brush the edges of the pie gently with egg wash.
- Place it in the preheated oven to 150 c FAN(350 degrees F). Bake for 65 minutes, or until the pie is just set. A small part of the center of the pie will be wobbly. After 40 minutes of baking, be sure to cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent the edges from getting too brown.
- Once done, remove the pie from the oven, transfer it to a wire rack, let it cool until room temperature and then place it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Whipped Cream
- Whisk the cream, sugar and vanilla to soft peaks.
Assembly
- Just before serving, top with vanilla whipped cream and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
Sandra
Thanks for this lovely recipe, Pumpkin Pie is one of my top desserts, with pre-rolled pastry it is easy to make too.