Name: Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups 160g all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; ½ cup 115g unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water; 1 ¾ cups 15 oz can pure pumpkin puree; ¾ cup 150g brown sugar; 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk; 1 cup 240ml heavy cream; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt

Pumpkin pie is an iconic dessert that embodies the warm, comforting flavors of fall. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving a slice of homemade goodness, this pumpkin pie recipe is the only one you’ll ever need.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the perfect pumpkin pie—from selecting the best ingredients to mastering the ideal crust. Plus, I’ll share expert tips, variations, and serving suggestions to help you elevate this classic dessert.

Why Pumpkin Pie is a Timeless Favorite

Pumpkin pie has been a staple of autumn celebrations for centuries. Originating from early American settlers who incorporated native pumpkins into their recipes, this dessert has evolved into the rich, spiced treat we know and love today. The combination of creamy pumpkin filling, warm spices, and a flaky crust makes it an irresistible delight.

Ingredients for the Perfect Pumpkin Pie

Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make a pumpkin pie truly exceptional.

For the Pie Crust (Homemade)

A buttery, flaky crust is the foundation of any great pie. While you can use a store-bought crust for convenience, making your own from scratch takes this dessert to the next level.

1 ¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes

3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the Pumpkin Pie Filling

The filling is the heart of this dessert. Using high-quality ingredients will yield the best flavor and texture.

1 ¾ cups (15 oz can) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or evaporated milk for a lighter texture)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pumpkin Pie

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s break down the process into simple, foolproof steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
Incorporate the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter (or your fingers), blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add ice water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the dough begins to come together.
Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll out the crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.

Transfer to the pie dish: Carefully place the rolled-out dough into the dish, trim the edges, and crimp as desired.
Blind bake (optional): To prevent a soggy crust, pre-bake the crust at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes with pie weights or dried beans.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

Whisk eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and brown sugar until smooth.

Add pumpkin and spices: Stir in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
Incorporate liquid ingredients: Mix in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, ensuring a creamy consistency.
Blend until smooth: If desired, use a hand mixer for an ultra-smooth texture.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pie

Pour the filling: Once the crust is ready, pour the pumpkin filling into the pie shell.
Bake at 350°F (175°C): Place the pie in a preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center may have a slight jiggle.
Cool completely: Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Expert Tips for a Flawless Pumpkin Pie

Use pure pumpkin puree: Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sweeteners and spices.
Prevent cracks: Do not overbake. The pie should have a slight wobble in the center when removed from the oven.
Chill for best flavor: Refrigerating the pie for a few hours enhances the flavors and allows the filling to fully set.

Brush the crust with egg wash: For a golden, glossy crust, brush the edges with an egg wash before baking.

Variations to Try

While the classic pumpkin pie is a favorite, there are plenty of ways to customize it:

Maple Pumpkin Pie: Replace half the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer flavor.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie: Swirl in a layer of sweetened cream cheese for a decadent twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust or substitute with a nut-based crust.
Vegan Pumpkin Pie: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut cream instead of dairy.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie

Serve chilled or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream.
Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect balance of flavors.

How to Store Pumpkin Pie

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

Final Thoughts: The Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe for Every Occasion

There you have it—the ultimate homemade pumpkin pie recipe that is sure to impress! Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of rich pumpkin flavor, warm spices, and a buttery crust makes it a must-have for any fall or holiday gathering.