If you are looking for a cozy dessert that effortlessly captures the essence of autumn, this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining simple pantry staples with warm spices, this pie offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and rich flavor that everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or simply craving a slice of comfort, this recipe guarantees a deliciously smooth pumpkin filling nestled in a flaky crust, ready to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role to provide the signature taste and perfect texture. Every item is easy to find and contributes to making this pie irresistibly flavorful and visually inviting.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Whether homemade or store-bought, this provides the buttery, flaky base that holds all the pumpkin goodness.
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée: The star ingredient, delivering smooth, rich pumpkin flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and richness, enriching the filling’s texture without being too heavy.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pie just right without overpowering the spices.
- 2 large eggs: These act as a binder, helping the pie set perfectly when baked.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings a warm and inviting spice that’s classic in pumpkin pies.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing to balance the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Gives a hint of depth and earthiness that rounds out the spice blend.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven for Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial high temperature is key to setting the pie’s outer edges quickly, ensuring a crisp crust that won’t get soggy once the filling is added.
Step 2: Mix the Delicious Pumpkin Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth. This ensures your filling will be perfectly uniform, with every bite offering a rich, spiced experience.
Step 3: Pour the Filling into the Pie Crust
Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture into your unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly to the edges. This even distribution helps the pie bake uniformly and look as inviting as it tastes.
Step 4: Bake to Golden, Custardy Perfection
Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Then reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, indicating the filling is set but still wonderfully creamy.
Step 5: Cool and Get Ready to Enjoy
Allow your pumpkin pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling time is essential because it helps the filling firm up properly, making slicing a breeze without any messy spills. Serve it up as is or add a generous dollop of whipped cream for that classic finishing touch.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
While this pumpkin pie tastes amazing on its own, a few garnishes can elevate it to something truly special. Think freshly whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. For an extra touch of elegance, toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup add wonderful contrast in texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe shines as a dessert after a hearty meal but pairs beautifully with savory sides during a holiday spread. Serve alongside roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and green beans for a classic seasonal feast that will leave everyone happily full and satisfied.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests beyond just flavor? Slice your pumpkin pie into mini tartlets for individual servings or arrange a selection of festive pies on a rustic wooden board for a charming dessert display. You can also top slices with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of edible gold dust for a touch of whimsy and warmth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your pumpkin pie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days while maintaining its delicious texture and flavor, so you can enjoy it without worry.
Freezing
If you want to make this pie well in advance, it’s freezer-friendly! Wrap the cooled pie securely in two layers of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 1 month. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the perfect slice.
Reheating
Reheat your pumpkin pie slices at a low temperature in the oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This gentle warming brings back that freshly baked feeling without drying out the filling or crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin needs to be cooked and pureed until smooth, but it can add a lovely depth of flavor to your Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture so the filling isn’t too watery.
What’s the best way to prevent a soggy pie crust?
Pre-baking your pie crust slightly (also called blind baking) or baking the pie at the initial higher temperature helps set the crust and keeps it flaky and crisp beneath the silky filling.
Can I substitute evaporated milk with regular milk or cream?
Evaporated milk adds richness without excess fat, but you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind the texture and richness might be slightly different but still delicious.
Is this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe suitable for beginners?
Definitely! The straightforward steps and common ingredients make this recipe perfect for bakers of any skill level. It’s a wonderful introduction to classic pumpkin pie baking.
How can I make this pumpkin pie vegan?
Use a vegan pie crust, swap eggs for flax eggs (flaxseed mixed with water), and replace evaporated milk with coconut milk or another plant-based milk. Adjust baking time as needed to ensure the filling sets well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making and sharing this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. With its simple ingredients and foolproof method, it brings that comforting taste of fall right to your table. I hope you give this recipe a try and create many sweet memories along the way!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Easy Pumpkin Pie recipe features a smooth and spiced pumpkin filling baked in a flaky 9-inch pie crust. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, this pie is a comforting fall favorite that’s simple to prepare and ideal for holiday desserts or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Filling
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the pumpkin pie.
- Mix Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Fill Pie Crust: Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly into the unbaked 9-inch pie crust, ensuring a smooth surface.
- Bake Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Afterward, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. Optionally, serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Using a baking sheet under the pie helps prevent oven spills.
- Letting the pie cool fully ensures the filling sets properly for clean slices.
- Adjust spices according to your personal preference for warmth and flavor.
- Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
