Easy Pumpkin Pie

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, this Easy Pumpkin Pie is just what you need! Made with simple ingredients and a sprinkle of love, this pie is perfect for cozy family gatherings or even a busy weeknight treat. I adore how the warm spices meld with the creamy pumpkin filling, creating a comforting slice that everyone will enjoy. It’s an easy recipe that even beginner bakers can tackle with confidence!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious pumpkin pie in no time!
• Family Favorite: This recipe is sure to become a hit at your dinner table, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this pie in advance and store it in the fridge for those busy holiday gatherings.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spices to your preference – add more cinnamon or ginger if you like it spicier!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Easy Pumpkin Pie, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For the Pie Filling

• 1 (9 inch) single crust homemade pie crust
• 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

Variations

This Easy Pumpkin Pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few variations you might enjoy trying:

• Add a Nutty Crunch: Top your pie with chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to bump up the spices or even add a dash of nutmeg for a cozy twist.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version that still tastes amazing!
• Chocolate Lovers’ Treat: Swirl in some melted dark chocolate into the filling for a rich, chocolate-pumpkin combo.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Start by preparing your homemade pie crust. Roll it out carefully and place it in your pie dish. A well-prepared crust creates a sturdy base for our delicious filling, so take your time here. If you’re using a store-bought crust, just follow the package instructions!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and all the spices. Be sure everything is well combined; this ensures each slice has that mouthwatering flavor we all love.

Step 3: Pour and Bake

Once your filling is ready, pour it into the prepared pie crust. Pop it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about an hour. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle – this means it’s perfectly creamy!

Step 4: Cool and Serve

After baking, let your pie cool on a wire rack before serving. Cooling helps set the filling further and makes slicing easier. Serve each piece with a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top – because what’s pumpkin pie without whipped cream? Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Pumpkin Pie

Making your pumpkin pie just right can be a delightful experience! Here are some handy tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh pumpkin puree for richer flavor: If you’re up for it, using homemade pumpkin puree made from roasted sugar pumpkins will give your pie a deeper, more vibrant taste compared to canned options.

• Don’t overmix the filling: Gently mixing the ingredients until just combined helps prevent too much air from being incorporated, which can lead to cracks in the pie as it bakes.

• Pre-bake your crust: For an extra flaky crust, consider pre-baking it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps avoid a soggy bottom and gives your crust a beautiful golden color.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: The pie is ready when you insert a toothpick into the center and it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This ensures that the filling is set without overcooking.

• Let it cool completely before slicing: Allowing your pumpkin pie to cool for a few hours helps firm up the filling, making it easier to slice and serve without losing its shape.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie

Presentation can make all the difference when serving dessert! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your easy pumpkin pie experience.

Garnishes

• Homemade whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a lovely creaminess and balances the spices in the pie.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the whipped cream or directly on the pie makes for a beautiful presentation and enhances the flavor.
• Candied pecans: Adding some crunchy candied pecans not only provides texture but also a touch of sweetness that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing with pumpkin pie, providing a cool contrast to its warm spices.
• Spiced apple cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider during fall gatherings brings out the seasonal flavors and keeps everyone cozy.
• Maple-glazed Brussels sprouts: These slightly sweet and savory sprouts offer a delightful contrast to dessert while fitting beautifully into any autumn menu.
• Roasted root vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes can round out your meal deliciously, offering both color and flavor that harmonizes with your pumpkin pie.

Enjoy making and serving this easy pumpkin pie—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy pumpkin pie recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this classic dessert any time during the fall season or for special occasions. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any wrapping from the pie.
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Serve with freshly whipped cream for an extra touch!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this easy pumpkin pie.

How can I make my Easy Pumpkin Pie spicier?

To add more spice to your easy pumpkin pie, simply increase the amounts of ground cinnamon and ginger. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper flavor profile.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for my Easy Pumpkin Pie?

Absolutely! You can make your own puree from fresh pumpkins. Just roast, scoop out, and blend until smooth. It adds a wonderful fresh taste to your easy pumpkin pie!

How do I know when my Easy Pumpkin Pie is done baking?

Your easy pumpkin pie is done when the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I use a store-bought crust for this Easy Pumpkin Pie recipe?

Yes, using a store-bought crust is perfectly fine if you’re short on time. Just ensure it’s a single crust that fits a 9-inch pie pan.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this easy pumpkin pie as much as I do! It’s not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories while baking in your kitchen. Whether for Thanksgiving or just because, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!