If you’ve ever wanted to master a dessert that captures the heart and soul of autumn in every bite, this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is your new best friend. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare, yet delivers that tender, creamy pumpkin filling spiced just right, nestled in a perfectly flaky crust that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pie maker, this recipe brings together classic flavors in a way that feels both familiar and special – it’s pure cozy comfort on a plate!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are not just simple and easy to find but also work together beautifully to create that classic pumpkin pie magic. Each one plays a unique role in giving the pie its creamy texture, rich flavor, and that golden color everyone loves.
- Refrigerated pie crust: Saves time and effort while providing that buttery, flaky base every pumpkin pie deserves.
- Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 oz): The star ingredient, offering that deep, earthy sweetness and vibrant orange hue.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Adds creamy sweetness and a silky texture without needing extra sugar.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the filling together, ensuring a smooth yet sturdy custard consistency.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- Pumpkin pie spice (2 tsp): This warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings that unmistakable aromatic warmth to the pie.
- Whipped cream: Optional topping that adds a light, creamy contrast to the pie’s richness.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by taking your refrigerated pie crust and fitting it into a 9-inch pie plate. Press down gently and crimp the edges for a lovely finished look. Once set, pop the crust into the refrigerator to chill while you focus on the delicious filling. This step ensures the crust stays crisp and flaky as it bakes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). This initial high temperature jump-starts the baking process, helping the crust set quickly before the filling takes center stage.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture is completely smooth. This blend is what gives the pie its beautifully creamy texture and that perfect pumpkin-spiced flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour your luscious pumpkin filling into the chilled pie crust. To protect your crust edges from burning, cover them with foil strips or a pie shield. Placing the pie on a baking sheet helps with easy handling and keeps your oven clean in case of spills.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Bake the pie at 425°F for 10 minutes to set the crust, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center looks slightly jiggly but isn’t liquid. Don’t worry if the edges crack a little—that’s just the sign of a perfectly baked pumpkin custard.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove your pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. For best flavor and texture, refrigerate it for at least two hours before serving. When ready to enjoy, add a generous dollop of whipped cream for that silky finish that complements the spice and sweetness beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Whipped cream is the classic topping, adding a smooth, airy touch that balances the dense, spiced filling perfectly. For a festive flair, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top, or add a drizzle of caramel sauce to up the indulgence factor.
Side Dishes
Serve this pie alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot apple cider to embrace that full fall vibe. It also pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream for an irresistible dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve individual mini pumpkin pies in ramekins during gatherings, or top slices with candied pecans for extra crunch. You can even jazz it up with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a few fresh cranberries for a pop of color and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the pie stays fresh and tasty for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze baked pumpkin pie by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When frozen, it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.
Reheating
If you prefer your pumpkin pie slightly warmed, pop a slice in the oven at 300°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, as the custard can become rubbery if cooked too long.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree for this Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree works wonderfully and adds an extra element of freshness. Just make sure it’s well strained to avoid excess moisture which could affect the pie’s texture.
Is sweetened condensed milk necessary for the filling?
Sweetened condensed milk is key in this recipe because it provides sweetness and creaminess without the need for additional sugar or cream. It helps create that silky smooth texture everyone loves in pumpkin pie.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making the pie a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to set perfectly. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
Why does the pie center jiggle when baking?
The slight jiggle signals that the filling is set but still creamy like a custard. It will firm up more as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep that smooth texture.
What can I use instead of pumpkin pie spice?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, mix cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and cloves in equal parts to create a homemade blend that tastes just as wonderful.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that always brings warmth and smiles to the table. Its simplicity makes it accessible to everyone, yet the rich flavor and inviting aroma feel like a special celebration in every slice. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own family favorite!
Print
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes including chilling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy pumpkin pie recipe features a simple homemade filling combined with a refrigerated pie crust for a classic dessert. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy fall evenings, the pie balances traditional pumpkin flavors with a smooth, creamy texture and a hint of warming spices.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (from a pack of two) or frozen crust
Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
Serving
- Whipped cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges as desired. Chill the crust while you prepare the filling to help maintain its shape during baking.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. This will create the classic creamy filling.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust. Place the pie plate on a baking sheet to make transferring easier and to catch any drips. Cover the edges of the crust with foil strips or a pie shield to prevent the crust from over-browning while baking.
- Bake the Pie: Bake the pie at 425°F (218°C) for 10 minutes to set the edges and start the cooking process. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) and continue baking for 30 to 40 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. A slight crack around the edges is normal and signals doneness.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. For best flavor and texture, chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Top each slice with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Using a pie shield or foil strips helps prevent the crust edges from burning.
- The filling will continue to firm up as it cools, so slight jiggle when hot is expected.
- Chilling the pie before serving enhances flavor and texture.
- Can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
