Easy Pumpkin Pie

Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert that many people look forward to during the fall season and particularly around Thanksgiving. It is a beloved dessert because of its sweet and spicy flavors that warm the heart. This easy pumpkin pie recipe simplifies the process, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious pie that is sure to impress your family and friends.

The combination of creamy pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a comforting taste that evokes the essence of autumn. Plus, using a pre-made pie crust saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on the filling and baking. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or just want a simple dessert to enjoy at home, this easy pumpkin pie recipe is the perfect choice.

How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie

Making easy pumpkin pie involves a few simple steps that anyone can follow. You will start by preparing your ingredients, mixing them together, and then baking the pie. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Ingredients

To make your easy pumpkin pie, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pre-made pie crust

Directions

Follow these steps to make your easy pumpkin pie:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help set the pie’s initial shape and crust.

2. Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, add the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Whisk the mixture together until it is completely smooth. This is where the magic happens; the flavors blend to create a delicious filling for the pie.

3. Prepare the Pie Crust: Take your pre-made pie crust and place it in a pie dish. If you are using a frozen pie crust, follow the packaging instructions for thawing. Once ready, pour the smooth pumpkin filling into the pie crust, making sure it is evenly distributed.

4. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven. Bake at 425°F for the first 15 minutes. This high temperature helps the crust become flaky and golden.

5. Lower the Temperature: After the first 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking the pie for an additional 35-40 minutes. You will know the pie is done when the filling is set but still jiggles slightly in the center.

6. Cool the Pie: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing. It’s important to let it cool so the filling can set properly.

7. Serve: After cooling, slice the pie and serve it with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with family and friends!

How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie

Serving your easy pumpkin pie can be as casual or as elegant as you like. Here are a few suggestions for serving:

• With Whipped Cream: A classic way to serve pumpkin pie is with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. You can use store-bought whipped cream or make your own by whipping heavy cream and adding a bit of sugar and vanilla.

• With Ice Cream: Some people love the combination of warm pumpkin pie with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The cold ice cream melting on the warm pie creates a delightful experience.

• Individual Servings: For a fun presentation, you can serve individual slices of pie on small plates garnished with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even caramel drizzle.

No matter how you choose to serve your easy pumpkin pie, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

How to Store Easy Pumpkin Pie

If you happen to have leftovers of your delicious pumpkin pie, storing them properly is essential to maintain freshness and flavor. Here are some tips on how to store your easy pumpkin pie:

• In the Refrigerator: After the pie has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. The pie can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days.

• Freezing: If you want to store your pumpkin pie for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight before serving.

• Reheating: If you prefer to serve your pie warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to overheat, as it can make the filling too hot and cause spills.

Tips to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie

Here are some tips to ensure that your easy pumpkin pie turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to spices. Freshly ground spices can make a significant difference in flavor.

• Room Temperature Eggs: For the best mixing and texture, make sure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the filling. This helps them combine more evenly with the other ingredients.

• Don’t Overmix: When mixing the filling, be sure not to overmix it. This can incorporate too much air and affect the texture of your pie. Just mix until everything is combined and smooth.

• Check the Doneness: To check if your pie is done, gently jiggle the pie in the oven. If the center jiggles slightly but does not look liquidy, then it’s ready. If the filling looks very loose, give it a few more minutes of baking.

Variation

While this easy pumpkin pie recipe is delicious as is, there are many ways to put a twist on the traditional recipe. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Chocolate Pumpkin Pie: For a chocolate lover’s twist, add some cocoa powder to the filling or swirl in melted chocolate once the filling is in the crust.

• Nutty Version: Top your pie with toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.

• Spicy Pumpkin Pie: If you love spices, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or allspice to the filling for an extra kick.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to make a dairy-free version.

These variations can add excitement to the traditional pumpkin pie recipe and cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
   Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Make sure to roast it first, scoop out the flesh, and puree it until smooth. You’ll need about 2 cups of fresh pumpkin for this recipe.

2. What can I do if my pumpkin pie cracks?
   Cracking usually occurs due to rapid temperature changes. To minimize cracking, avoid overbaking and allow the pie to cool gradually. If cracks do occur, you can hide them with whipped cream!

3. How can I make my pie crust flakier?
   To make your pie crust flakier, handle it as little as possible and keep your ingredients cold. Use cold butter and ice-cold water when making pie crust from scratch, or ensure your pre-made crust is chilled before baking.

4. Can I make pumpkin pie ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the pumpkin filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the pie closer to the time you plan to serve it, or bake it in advance and store it in the fridge.

5. Why is my pumpkin pie watery?
   A watery pumpkin pie may be due to using too much liquid or not cooking it long enough. Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately and check for doneness before removing it from the oven.

By following this easy pumpkin pie recipe, not only will you create a delightful dessert, but you will also gather wonderful memories with loved ones. A slice of homemade pumpkin pie embodies comfort and warmth, bringing everyone closer together during special moments any time of year. Enjoy baking and sharing this classic treat!

Easy Pumpkin Pie

Print Recipe

This easy pumpkin pie recipe simplifies the traditional process, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. With creamy pumpkin puree and warm spices, this classic dessert is sure to impress.

• Author: natasha
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 pre-made pie crust

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until smooth.
3. Place the pre-made pie crust in a pie dish and pour the filling into it.
4. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes.
5. Once baked, let the pie cool completely before slicing.
6. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Notes

For best results, use fresh ingredients and make sure eggs are at room temperature before use.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg