The Ultimate Easy Pumpkin Pie: A Thanksgiving Classic
A Slice of Tradition
As Thanksgiving approaches, the aroma of spices and the warmth of baked goods fill the air, evoking a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Among the array of traditional desserts that grace holiday tables, pumpkin pie reigns supreme. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a beloved staple of the season. This easy pumpkin pie recipe captures all the essence of a classic without the fuss, ensuring you can serve a delicious dessert with minimal effort.
Pumpkin pie has been a cherished part of Thanksgiving feasts for generations. Originating from Native American cuisine, it became popular among early settlers who adapted the use of pumpkin to create a sweet dessert. With its blend of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger—pumpkin pie embodies the flavors of fall, making it a perfect finale to your Thanksgiving meal. What makes this pumpkin pie truly amazing is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that rivals any bakery. The key components include pure pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and a medley of warm spices. These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy filling that perfectly complements a flaky pie crust.
Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of this pumpkin pie recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With pre-made pie crusts available at your local grocery store, you can save time without sacrificing taste. Simply mix the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and spices in a bowl until smooth, pour the filling into the crust, and bake. In less than an hour, your kitchen will be filled with the delightful aroma of baking pumpkin pie, inviting everyone to gather around the table. While the classic pumpkin pie is delightful on its own, there are numerous ways to customize the flavor to suit your taste. Adding a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the sweetness, while a pinch of sea salt balances the flavors. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, experimenting with additional spices like allspice or cloves can take the pie to another level. Whipped cream is the traditional topping, but consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
Perfect for Any Occasion
While pumpkin pie is often associated with Thanksgiving, it’s a dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, a cozy fall dinner, or just a casual get-together with friends, this easy pumpkin pie is sure to impress. Its versatility makes it a wonderful addition to any dessert table, delighting guests of all ages. Making pumpkin pie can also become a cherished family tradition. Invite your loved ones into the kitchen to help with the preparation, share stories about past Thanksgiving gatherings, and create new memories together. This easy recipe encourages everyone to participate, making the process as enjoyable as the final product.
Notes
Make Ahead Instructions: You can make the entire pie the day before and store it the refrigerator, or prepare the pie crust and filling the day before and store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to bake the next day.
Storage Instructions: Store-bought pumpkin pies can sit at room temperature because of the preservatives added, but homemade pumpkin pie should be refrigerated if not eaten within 2 hours of sitting out. Leftover pumpkin pie will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to allow pumpkin pie to cool completely and then cover it loosely with plastic wrap, for storing.
Freezing Instructions: Cooked pumpkin pie can be frozen for up to 3 months, covered well. You can also freeze the pie crust for up to 3 months. Thaw pumpkin pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Take control of your weekly meals with this all-in-one Meal Plan Planner and Organizer. This digital product includes everything you need to simplify meal planning: a meal plan shopping list to streamline grocery trips, a weekly calorie and macro tracker to stay on top of your nutrition, and 3 easy, delicious recipes perfect for meal prep. Whether you're looking to save time, eat healthier, or just stay organized, this planner has you covered. It's designed to help you balance your meals, track your nutrition, and make cooking less stressful, all while maintaining delicious variety. Perfect for busy home cooks!
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 Hour hr 5 minutes
Total Time 1 Hour hr 35 minutes
Pie Servings: 12
Calories: 225 kcal
Equipment
Pie Pan
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Pie:
1 9-inch Homemade pie crust , or store-bought, deep dish, unbaked
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 large eggs
15 ounce can canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin puree
12 ounce can evaporated milk
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
In a large bowl beat the eggs and pumpkin together. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves, and add to pumpkin mixture.
Gradually stir in the evaporated milk. Carefully pour mixture into unbaked pie shell.
Bake at 425 degrees F for for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350° F; bake for 40 to 50 minutes longer, or until the pie is set. Check for doneness by giving the pie a gentle wiggle. The center may jiggle just a tiny bit. It will continue to set up as it cools. Or, it is done when a sharp knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool completely on a wire cooling rack. Serve immediately with whipped cream and caramel pecan topping, if desired.
Caramel Pecan Topping:
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add brown sugar, cream, corn syrup, and butter to a small saucepan over medium high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and vanilla. The topping will thicken as it cools. Spoon topping over cooled pumpkin pie slices and top with whipped cream.
