This homemade Pumpkin Pie recipe is sure to become a favorite at your fall gatherings and Thanksgiving celebrations. With just 12 simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously creamy pie that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Its rich flavors and inviting aroma make it an ideal dessert for family dinners or holiday parties, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses common pantry items, making it easy to whip up any time.
- Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of only 45 minutes, you can have this pie ready in no time.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and pumpkin puree creates a warm and inviting taste.
- Family Favorite: This classic pie is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, itβs essential to gather the right tools. Having everything on hand will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Pie dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pie crust evenly for the perfect base.
- Pie dish: A good-quality pie dish ensures even cooking and browning of the crust.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
- 4-6 tbsp cold water
For the Filling
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- pinch of all-spice
- pinch of ground cloves
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Pumpkin Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by combining flour, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl.
1. Add cold butter cut into small pieces.
2. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together.
4. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C).
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerated dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
1. Carefully transfer it to your pie dish.
2. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In another mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, all-spice, and cloves.
1. Whisk together until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Fill the Crust
Pour the filling mixture into the prepared crust.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes at 425Β°F (220Β°C).
1. Reduce temperature to 350Β°F (175Β°C) without opening the oven door.
2. Bake for an additional 35β40 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow your pumpkin pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream if desired!
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether youβre celebrating Thanksgiving or just craving a slice, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
Classic Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture to each bite.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the spices in pumpkin pie perfectly.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the pie adds a rich, sweet layer that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.
Festive Garnishes
- Cinnamon Sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top brings out the warm spices in the pie.
- Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to each slice.
- Fruit Compote: A side of homemade fruit compote provides a fruity contrast that brightens the overall taste.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Pie
Creating the perfect pumpkin pie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out amazing.
- Bold Flavoring: Use fresh spices instead of pre-ground ones for a more intense flavor profile.
- Chill Your Crust: Letting your pie crust chill before baking prevents it from shrinking and ensures it holds its shape.
- Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your pie while it bakes; overcooking can lead to cracks in the filling.
- Let It Cool Thoroughly: Allowing the pie to cool completely helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options you might consider.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage is perfect for fall and pairs wonderfully with pumpkin pie.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness echoes the flavors of pumpkin, creating a harmonious meal.
- Green Bean Almondine: The crispness of green beans with toasted almonds balances the richness of the pie.
- Brussels Sprouts Salad: A refreshing salad made with Brussels sprouts, nuts, and cranberries offers a nice contrast.
- Cranberry Sauce: Its tartness cuts through the sweetness of pumpkin, enhancing every bite.
- Pecan Pie Bites: These mini desserts echo the flavors found in pumpkin pie but provide a different texture experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pumpkin pie can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your final product. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
Using warm ingredients: Always use cold butter and water for the crust. This helps create a flaky texture that enhances your pumpkin pie.
Overmixing the filling: Mix the pumpkin filling just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air bubbles, which might cause cracks during baking.
Not pre-baking the crust: If you skip pre-baking, the crust may become soggy. Pre-bake it for a few minutes to ensure it remains crisp.
Skipping spices: Donβt forget the spices! They add depth and flavor to your pumpkin pie. Use fresh spices for the best taste.
Baking at too high a temperature: Baking at a temperature thatβs too high can burn the edges of the crust before the filling is set. Stick to the recommended temperature for even baking.
Not allowing it to cool properly: Letting your pie cool completely before slicing helps it set properly. This makes serving easier and enhances flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover pumpkin pie in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Place wax paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.
Freezing Pumpkin Pie
- Wrap your pumpkin pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Pumpkin Pie
Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds at a time until warm.
Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick pan over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making pumpkin pie that can help you perfect your recipe:
How do I make my pumpkin pie filling creamier?
To achieve a creamier filling, consider adding an extra egg or using heavy cream instead of sweetened condensed milk.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! Using fresh pumpkin puree from roasted pumpkins gives a richer flavor, but make sure itβs well-pureed with no chunks.
How can I tell when my pumpkin pie is done?
The filling should be set but slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
What can I serve with pumpkin pie?
Pumpkin pie pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You could also top it with caramel sauce for an extra treat!
Can I make this pumpkin pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake it one day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until youβre ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This homemade pumpkin pie recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences. Whether you choose to add more spices or experiment with different toppings, each variation offers something new. Give this classic dessert a try at your next fall gathering or Thanksgiving celebration!

Pumpkin Pie
- Author: Madison
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of homemade pumpkin pie, a quintessential dessert that captures the essence of fall. This recipe combines the rich creaminess of pumpkin puree with a blend of warm spices, all nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy nights at home, this delightful pie is sure to impress family and friends alike. With just 12 simple ingredients, you can create a scrumptious treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence!
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold)
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- pinch of all-spice
- pinch of ground cloves
Instructions
- For the crust, mix flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water to form dough. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C).
- Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
- In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and spices; whisk until smooth.
- Pour filling into prepared crust and bake for 15 minutes at 425Β°F (220Β°C). Reduce temperature to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until set.
- Cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 275mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For an extra creamy filling, use heavy cream instead of condensed milk. Customize spices based on your taste preferences; fresh spices yield better flavor.