Pumpkin Pie How to Make the Perfect Fall Dessert

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, my thoughts inevitably drift to one of my all-time favorite desserts: pumpkin pie! There’s something so comforting about the rich, creamy filling and the warm spices that just scream fall. If you’re like me and love to whip up delicious treats for family gatherings or cozy nights in, then you’re in for a treat! Today, I’m excited to share my secrets for making the perfect pumpkin pie that will have everyone asking for seconds. And while we’re at it, let’s not forget that this pie pairs beautifully with quick family dinners or even a slice after one of those easy pasta recipes you’ve been trying out. So, let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic fall flavors that warm your heart.
• Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
• Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
• Can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.
• Deliciously creamy filling that melts in your mouth!

Ingredients

To make this delightful pumpkin pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can Pumpkin (15 oz) – Not pumpkin pie filling
• 1 Evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 2 Large eggs – Room temperature
• ¾ cup Brown sugar – Packed
• 1 tsp Ground cinnamon – Use good quality cinnamon
• ½ tsp Ground nutmeg – Fresh grated if possible
• ½ tsp Ground ginger – Optional
• ¼ tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract – Real vanilla
• 1 Pie crust – Pre-made or homemade
• 1 cup Heavy cream – Whipped
• 1–2 tbsp Powdered sugar – Optional
• ½ tsp Vanilla extract – For whipped cream

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making the pie!

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Roll out your pie crust, press it into a 9-inch pan, crimp the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork.
2. Line the crust with foil and pie weights. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the weights and foil, and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, then mix in the brown sugar, pumpkin, spices, salt, and vanilla. Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk until smooth.
4. Tap the pie pan gently to remove any air bubbles. Pour the filling into the crust. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for another 40–50 minutes.
5. Once done, cool on a wire rack for 2 hours. If you’re making it ahead of time, chill it in the fridge. Serve with whipped cream for that extra touch!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your pumpkin pie turns out perfectly:

• Use high-quality spices for the best flavor. Freshly grated nutmeg can make a world of difference!
• Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
• Don’t skip the cooling time! This helps the pie set properly.
• If you want to elevate your pie, try adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the filling.
• For a fun twist, consider drizzling caramel sauce over the whipped cream before serving!

How to Serve

Serving pumpkin pie is all about presentation! Here are some ideas:

• Top each slice with a generous dollop of whipped cream mixed with a hint of vanilla extract.
• Serve with a side of warm apple cider or a cup of coffee for a cozy touch.
• For a festive look, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the whipped cream.
• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pumpkin pie is perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store it:

• Once cooled, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you want to make it even earlier, you can freeze the pie! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• To serve after freezing, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

And there you have it! A delicious pumpkin pie that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying it after a hearty meal or as a sweet treat on its own, this pie is a true fall classic. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, don’t forget to check out my Pumpkin Pie page for more tips and tricks, or explore some Cabbage Soup Diet ideas for a healthy twist. Happy baking!