Easy Pumpkin Pie

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings warmth to your table, this Easy Pumpkin Pie is just the thing! Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a family gathering, or just a cozy weeknight at home, this pie has a way of making any occasion feel special. It’s so simple to whip up, and the aroma of spices will fill your kitchen with comfort and joy. I adore this recipe because it allows you to use either canned pumpkin or homemade pumpkin puree, making it versatile for whatever you have on hand.

The best part? Everyone in your family will love it! This pie is perfect for sharing and is sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation. Let’s dive into why you’ll appreciate this Easy Pumpkin Pie even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a pie that feels like a labor of love without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: This dessert is loved by kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for gatherings of all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm spices creates a comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Flexible Options: Use canned or homemade pumpkin puree based on what you have available; both options yield delicious results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Easy Pumpkin Pie. These are staples that you might already have in your pantry.

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 beautiful things about this Easy Pumpkin Pie recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add More Spice: If you enjoy bolder flavors, increase the cinnamon and ginger for an extra kick!
• Nutty Crust Option: Swap out your regular crust for a pecan or almond flour crust for a gluten-free twist.
• Choco-Pumpkin Delight: Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips into the filling for a sweet surprise!
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream to make this pie dairy-free while still keeping it rich and delicious.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

Start by preparing your single crust pie dough. Roll it out carefully and place it into your pie pan. Make sure it’s well-fitted without stretching. This crust will hold all that delicious filling!

Step 2: Mix Your Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Adding the pure pumpkin puree next gives that lovely vibrant color we associate with pumpkin pie. Then pour in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined beautifully.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle in your ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and sea salt. Whisk again until fully blended—this step is key as those spices bring warmth and flavor to every bite!

Step 4: Bake

Pour your filling into the prepared pie crust and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about one hour or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remember, it will firm up as it cools!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your Easy Pumpkin Pie cool completely before slicing. It’s perfect served with homemade whipped cream on top—a delightful touch that elevates this classic dessert!

And there you have it! A wonderfully easy recipe that promises smiles all around. Enjoy each slice!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Pumpkin Pie

Making a perfect pumpkin pie is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality pumpkin puree can significantly enhance the flavor of your pie. Opting for fresh ingredients ensures a richer taste and a more satisfying texture.

• Pre-bake your crust: To avoid a soggy bottom, consider pre-baking your pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This step helps set the crust and keeps it flaky and crisp.

• Don’t overmix the filling: Mixing just until combined will prevent your pie from cracking. Overmixing can incorporate too much air into the filling, which may lead to cracks as it bakes.

• Cool gradually: Once baked, let your pie cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 30 minutes. This gradual cooling process helps minimize cracking on the surface.

• Chill before serving: Letting your pie chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or overnight) before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie

Presenting your easy pumpkin pie can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make it shine on your dessert table.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on top adds creaminess and makes each slice even more delectable.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: Lightly dusting cinnamon over the whipped cream not only looks beautiful but also enhances that warm spice profile.
• Candied pecans: For an added crunch, sprinkle some candied pecans on top or serve them alongside. They add a delightful contrast to the smooth filling.

Side Dishes

• Spiced apple cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider pairs perfectly with pumpkin pie, bringing out its autumn flavors while adding a comforting drink option.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the flavors of pumpkin in a balanced way, creating a wholesome side dish that’s sure to please.
• Green bean casserole: This classic side dish offers a savory contrast to the sweet pie, making for a well-rounded Thanksgiving table.
• Maple-glazed Brussels sprouts: These slightly bitter sprouts drizzled with maple syrup provide an excellent harmony of tastes when served alongside pumpkin pie.

Now that you have this easy pumpkin pie recipe and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends at any gathering! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy pumpkin pie recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it fresh without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious pie for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature.
• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, consume within two days.

Freezing

• Ensure the pie is fully cooled before freezing.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have 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 roast, scoop out, and blend until smooth. It adds a lovely homemade touch!

How long does Easy Pumpkin Pie last in the fridge?

Your easy pumpkin pie will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly. Enjoy it while it’s still delicious!

Can I make Easy Pumpkin Pie without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or a blend of almond milk and cornstarch for a lighter option.

Is Easy Pumpkin Pie suitable for freezing?

Yes! This easy pumpkin pie freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn and enjoy it later!

What spices can I add to my Easy Pumpkin Pie?

If you love spices, feel free to increase the cinnamon and ginger for more flavor. Nutmeg is also a delightful addition if you’re looking to experiment!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this easy pumpkin pie recipe as delightful as I do! It’s not just about making dessert; it’s about creating warm memories around your table. Enjoy every slice and feel free to share this recipe with loved ones who’d appreciate a taste of home. Happy baking!