There’s something about the scent of warm spices and creamy pumpkin that just feels like autumn in every bite. This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is a go-to in my kitchen when I want a no-fuss dessert that truly delights, even if you're short on time or fancy skills.
Jump to:
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This pie feels like a warm hug from the oven. I've made it for years, sometimes last-minute, and it never fails to please. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to pull off – perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
- Simple ingredients: You probably already have most of what you need in your pantry, making it stress-free.
- Quick preparation: From mixing to baking, it comes together surprisingly fast without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich and comforting flavor: The pumpkin spice blend creates that classic taste everyone loves.
- Versatile for any occasion: Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, it fits right in.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in my Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe plays a special role to achieve that creamy texture and classic flavor we all crave. Using canned pumpkin puree keeps it smooth while sweetened condensed milk adds sweetness without extra fuss.
- Refrigerated pie crust: A great shortcut that saves time; using a store-bought crust is completely fine and still yields a flaky base.
- Pumpkin puree: Make sure to use pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for the best flavor and consistency.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This sweetens and thickens the filling, giving it that creamy pumpkin custard texture.
- Eggs: They help bind everything together and give the pie structure.
- Pumpkin pie spice: The star flavor blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that instantly transports you to fall.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance and enhance all those flavors.
Make It Your Way
I like to keep this recipe classic, but I’ve played around with it depending on the occasion. Don’t be afraid to tweak it! It’s a great base for creativity.
- Spice it up: One year I tweaked the spice blend by adding a pinch of cardamom—it gave it a lovely floral twist that surprised everyone.
- Crust alternatives: Using a homemade pie crust works well too; just remember to partially blind bake it to keep the bottom crispy and prevent sogginess.
- Diet-friendly variations: For a lighter version, try swapping sweetened condensed milk with evaporated milk and a bit of honey or maple syrup, but expect a slightly different texture.
- Mini pies: Make individual-sized pies using muffin tins, perfect for parties or dessert bars.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Crust With Care
Start by setting your oven rack in the lowest position and preheating it to 425°F. Thaw your refrigerated pie crust according to package directions—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Once soft but still cool, unroll it and gently fit it into your pie dish. I like to fold the edges under just slightly and press between my fingertips to create a charming wavy edge. It’s an easy way to make the crust look homemade and pretty without any fancy tools.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dreamy Filling
In a bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk (don’t forget to scrape the can so none goes to waste!), eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk until everything blends smoothly together. You’re aiming for a silky batter with no lumps—this mix is the heart of the pie.
Step 3: Bake Like a Pro
Pour your filling into the prepared crust, then give the pie a gentle wiggle to level the surface. To avoid an overly browned crust edge, I like to tuck a ring of aluminum foil around the edges—trust me, it’s a game-changer. Place the pie on a baking sheet (this helps catch any drips) and slide it onto the lowest oven rack. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.
Once those first 15 minutes are up, lower the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll want the filling to be mostly set; it should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the pan. This ensures a creamy but firm texture that slices beautifully.
Step 4: Cool and Chill for the Perfect Slice
Set your pie on a wire rack to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. If you prefer a chilled slice, cool it at room temperature for an hour first, then transfer it to the fridge for another 2 hours. This step helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up perfectly.
Top Tip
After making this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe a dozen times, I’ve learned a few secrets that guarantee perfect results every time.
- Keep the crust edges safe: Wrapping foil around the crust edges after the first 15 minutes keeps them from getting too dark while the filling finishes cooking.
- Don't overbake: The filling will firm up as it cools, so remove the pie from the oven when it’s just set with a slight jiggle in the middle.
- Use a baking sheet: Always bake your pie on a tray lined with parchment or foil to catch any spillage and make cleanup a breeze.
- Cool completely: Leaving the pie to cool properly ensures clean slices instead of a messy fill!
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
I’m a simple gal, so I love serving this pumpkin pie with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. If I’m feeling fancy, a sprinkle of extra pumpkin pie spice or a few chopped toasted pecans adds a lovely crunch and spice note on top.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with warm apple cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. When hosting, I like to balance it with something savory, like roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad, to create a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For festive occasions, try serving your pumpkin pie in mini mason jars or as individual tartlets—adding cute holiday-themed toothpicks or cinnamon sticks for extra flair. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser and conversation starter!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually cover leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. I find that the flavors only deepen overnight, making the next-day slice even better.
Freezing
This pumpkin pie freezes well! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When you want a slice, thaw it overnight in the fridge and enjoy almost like fresh-baked. I’ve had great success with freezing for up to 2 months.
Reheating
I prefer eating pumpkin pie cold or at room temperature, but if you like it warm, reheating individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds works well. Just be careful not to overheat or you'll risk curdling the creamy filling.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Pumpkin puree is plain cooked pumpkin without added sugar or spices, perfect for making your own spiced pie filling from scratch. Pumpkin pie filling is pre-sweetened and spiced, so using it could lead to an overly sweet or heavily spiced pie.
Absolutely! Homemade crust adds a personal touch and can be delicious. Just partially blind bake it first to prevent sogginess because pumpkin filling is quite moist.
The pie is done when the edges are set and the center only jiggles slightly when you shake the pan. It should not be liquidy or overly sloshing; the filling will continue to firm up as it cools.
Yes! This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe benefits from some advance planning. After baking, cool completely and refrigerate. It actually tastes even better the next day, and you can keep it refrigerated for 3-4 days safely.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like home. Every time I bake it, memories of cozy kitchen chats and holiday laughter come flooding back. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s honestly one of the simplest ways to fill your home with warmth and sweetness. So, grab your mixing bowl and give it a try; I promise it’ll become a favorite in no time.
Print
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 46 minutes
- Total Time: 56 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pumpkin Pie recipe offers a classic, creamy pumpkin dessert perfect for autumn and holiday gatherings. Utilizing a store-bought pie crust and simple pantry ingredients like pumpkin puree and sweetened condensed milk, this recipe delivers a rich, spiced pie with minimal effort. The pie features traditional pumpkin pie spices and a perfectly set filling, making it a delightful treat for up to eight people.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 (9-inch) refrigerated pie crust (store-bought)
Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set the oven rack in the lowest position and preheat to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare the crust. Thaw the chilled pie crust according to package directions. Unroll it and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Decorate the edges by folding them under slightly and pressing between fingertips to create a wavy design if desired.
- Mix the filling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk (including any excess from the can), eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well blended.
- Fill the pie crust. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust and level the filling by gently wiggling the pie dish. Place the pie on a baking sheet. Optionally, cover the crust edges with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
- Bake the pie. Transfer the pie on the baking sheet to the oven’s lowest rack and bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for 35 to 40 minutes until the filling is nearly set and does not jiggle when moved.
- Cool the pie. Remove the pie from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. For a chilled pie, allow the pie to rest 1 hour at room temperature, then refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- If using a homemade pie crust, it is recommended to partially blind bake it first to prevent sogginess from the wet filling.
- You can substitute the pumpkin pie spice with a blend of 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ginger, and ¼ teaspoon cloves for a homemade spice mix.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Leave a Reply