If you’re looking for a cozy, quintessential fall dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is your new best friend. It brings together that perfect blend of creamy pumpkin, fragrant spices, and buttery crust in a way that’s simple enough for any home cook to master but special enough to impress family and friends. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a weekend treat, this recipe captures all the magic of pumpkin pie without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze with this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe because you only need a handful of pantry staples, each playing a vital role in building depth, flavor, and texture.
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust: A flaky, buttery base that holds all that luscious filling.
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree: The star of the show, providing smooth, rich pumpkin flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk: Adds creaminess and a silky texture that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens gently without overpowering, balancing the spices.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for setting the filling and giving it structure.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms up the pumpkin with its sweet, woody aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing that lifts the whole flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a deep, aromatic spice note for complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
- Optional whipped cream for serving: A classic topping that adds lightness and a touch of indulgence.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high initial heat helps set the crust so it turns crisp and golden. Having the oven ready from the start ensures your pie bakes evenly, creating that perfect duo of crispy crust and creamy filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Whisk everything together vigorously until it’s completely smooth and well blended. This step is where all those warm spices begin to infuse the silky pumpkin base, promising each slice will be packed with inviting flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour your beautifully spiced pumpkin mixture into the unbaked pie crust. Make sure to spread it evenly so that when it bakes, the filling cooks in harmony with the crust’s edges, making for an irresistibly balanced pie experience.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes to set that crust, then lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 40–50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Baking gradually like this ensures the filling is silky without being too wobbly or overly dry. Then, let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to fully develop its flavors and texture.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing complements this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe better than a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. Its light, airy sweetness pairs beautifully with the dense pumpkin filling. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This pie shines as a standalone dessert but also pairs wonderfully with warm, spiced drinks like chai tea, hot apple cider, or a cup of rich coffee. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side offers a cold, creamy contrast that’s utterly delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, try serving individual mini pumpkin pies or tartlets for portion-controlled indulgence. Alternatively, create a rustic pumpkin pie galette to showcase a free-form crust with those same luscious filling flavors. Presentation is a great way to make this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe the star of any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it. Pumpkin pie can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge and still maintain its texture and flavor, making it a convenient and delicious treat for days after baking.
Freezing
If you want to save pie for longer, you can freeze it (either whole or in slices). Wrap it securely in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
To warm up slices of this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe, let them come to room temperature first or heat gently at 300°F in the oven for about 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crisp and prevent the filling from becoming watery.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree for this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade puree can bring an even fresher, more vibrant flavor. Just be sure it’s thick and smooth so the filling sets properly. Drain any excess moisture if needed.
What if I don’t have evaporated milk?
You can substitute evaporated milk with full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer texture, although the taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
How can I avoid a soggy crust?
Preheating the oven and starting your bake at a higher temperature helps crisp the crust quickly. You can also brush the crust with beaten egg white before adding the filling for an extra barrier against sogginess.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the traditional pie crust with a gluten-free version. Many stores offer ready-made gluten-free crusts, or you can make your own from almond flour or gluten-free flour blends.
Is it better to serve pumpkin pie chilled or at room temperature?
Both ways are lovely! Chilled pie is refreshing and firmer, while room temperature allows the spices and pumpkin flavor to shine more boldly. Try both and decide which you prefer.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is truly a keeper, capturing everything that makes pumpkin pie the beloved classic it is—without requiring tons of effort. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with the people you care about. Once you try it, this will become your go-to dessert whenever pumpkin season rolls around. Trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is a classic American dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving and year-round celebrations. Featuring a smooth, spiced pumpkin filling inside a flaky pie crust, it’s simple to prepare and baked to perfection with warm autumn spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Enjoy this comforting pie topped with whipped cream for a deliciously traditional treat.
Ingredients
Pie Ingredients
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 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
- Optional: whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature before baking the pie.
- Mix Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, eggs, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into your pie dish and pour the pumpkin filling evenly into the crust.
- Bake Initial Phase: Bake the pie at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes to set the crust and start cooking the filling.
- Reduce Heat and Continue Baking: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack, letting it cool at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly.
- Serve: Optionally top with whipped cream before serving. The pie can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, substitute the individual spices with 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice.
- You can prepare the pie a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator.
- Serve the pumpkin pie chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.
