Easy Pumpkin Pie

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your loved ones, this Easy Pumpkin Pie is just what you need! There’s something magical about the aroma of pumpkin and spices filling the air, especially during fall or family gatherings. This recipe is a cherished favorite of mine because it’s incredibly easy to whip up, and it tastes like a hug in pie form. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving or a simple weeknight treat, you can’t go wrong with this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this pie ready to bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves pumpkin pie! It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this pie in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
• Flexible Spice Levels: Adjust the spices to fit your taste preferences; it’s super customizable!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Easy Pumpkin Pie requires simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pie Filling

• 1 (9 inch) single crust homemade pie crust (our recipe makes enough for 2 single crust pies)
• 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

One of the best things about this Easy Pumpkin Pie is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add More Spice: If you love bold flavors, increase the cinnamon and ginger for an extra kick.
• Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture.
• Creamy Coconut: Replace half of the heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
• Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips before baking to create a deliciously decadent version.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Start by preparing your homemade pie crust. A good crust is essential; it holds all the delicious filling inside. Roll out your dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Make sure to crimp the edges nicely for that classic look. Pre-baking your crust for about 10 minutes helps prevent it from getting soggy once you add the filling.

Step 2: Whisk Together Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Next, add in the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. This step is important as it combines all those rich flavors into one creamy mixture.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Sprinkle in the cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Whisk everything together until well combined. The spices really enhance the flavor of your Easy Pumpkin Pie and make it smell heavenly as it bakes!

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Pour your filling into the prepared pie crust carefully. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Don’t worry if it cracks; that’s normal! Letting it cool will allow those flavors to deepen even more.

Step 5: Serve with Whipped Cream

Once cooled, slice up your Easy Pumpkin Pie and serve with a generous dollop of homemade whipped cream on top. It’s truly a treat that everyone will love!

Enjoy making this heartwarming dessert, and I hope it becomes as beloved in your home as it is in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Pumpkin Pie

Making the perfect pumpkin pie is all about those little details that can take your dessert from good to great!

• Use homemade pumpkin puree: If you have the time, making your own pumpkin puree can enhance the flavor and freshness of your pie. Simply roast a sugar pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth.

• Blind bake your crust: To avoid a soggy bottom, consider blind baking your pie crust for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This helps create a sturdy base that holds up to the creamy filling.

• Cool completely before slicing: Letting your pie cool completely allows it to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, the flavors meld together beautifully as it cools!

• Adjust spices to taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices according to your preference. If you love a spicier kick, add more cinnamon or ginger; if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce them slightly.

• Serve with homemade whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates any pumpkin pie. Try making it with heavy cream and a touch of vanilla for a delightful topping that complements the pie perfectly.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie

Presenting your easy pumpkin pie can make all the difference in creating a wonderful dessert experience. Here are some delightful ideas to enhance your serving presentation!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon dusting: A light sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top of each slice adds an inviting aroma and a touch of elegance.
• Chopped pecans: A few chopped pecans offer a crunchy texture contrast to the creamy pie and create a beautiful visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm pumpkin pie, providing a delightful temperature contrast.
• Apple Crisp: The sweet and tart flavors of apple crisp complement the spiced notes of pumpkin pie beautifully.
• Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The savory richness of roasted Brussels sprouts balances well with the sweetness of the pie, making it an excellent side dish for holiday gatherings.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts offers a refreshing bite that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of pumpkin pie.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your easy pumpkin pie! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy pumpkin pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert without the last-minute rush. You can make it ahead of time and store it properly, ensuring that it stays fresh and tasty!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Once the pie is fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
• To prevent freezer burn, consider double-wrapping the pie.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap from the pie.
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this easy pumpkin pie:

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

Absolutely! You can make your own pumpkin puree from fresh pumpkins. Just be sure to cook and puree them until smooth before adding them to your recipe.

What if I want a spicier Easy Pumpkin Pie?

If you love spices, feel free to increase the amounts of cinnamon and ginger in this recipe. Adjusting these spices will give your pie an extra kick that many pumpkin lovers enjoy!

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

Your pie is ready when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this Easy Pumpkin Pie dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute heavy whipping cream with coconut cream or any non-dairy alternative that suits your taste.

How do I serve my Easy Pumpkin Pie?

Serve slices of your pumpkin pie with homemade whipped cream on top for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any gathering!

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 warm memories around the table with family and friends. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or just looking for a cozy dessert, this recipe is sure to bring joy. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience!