Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 large eggs
  • 15 ounces (1 can) Pumpkin Puree
  • 12 ounces (1 can) Evaporated Milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
  2. Roll out your pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Stir until well mixed.
  4. In a larger bowl, beat the eggs. Add the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract to the eggs and mix until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the sugar and spice mixture to the pumpkin mixture, stirring continuously.
  6. Pour the pumpkin filling into the pie crust.
  7. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  8. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and continue to bake the pie for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for 2 hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl used for combining ingredients.
  • Whisk - A utensil with wire loops used for thoroughly mixing ingredients.
  • Pie Dish - A round, shallow dish used for baking pies.
  • Rolling Pin - A cylindrical tool used for rolling out dough.
  • Pie Crust Shield - A protective cover used to prevent the edges of the pie crust from burning during baking.
  • Knife - A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups - Utensils used for measuring accurate amounts of liquid and dry ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - Utensils used for measuring small amounts of liquid and dry ingredients.
  • Wire Rack - A rack used for cooling baked goods.
  • Oven - A kitchen appliance used for baking and heating food.

Recipe variations

  • Use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust.
  • Add a streusel topping made of brown sugar, butter, and chopped nuts.
  • Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the evaporated milk to make it dairy-free.
  • Add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the filling for a boozy twist.
  • Incorporate a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice instead of the individual spices.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving.
  • Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped pecans to the filling for added texture.
  • Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Try using sweet potatoes or butternut squash instead of pumpkin for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the spice mixture.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Traditional Pumpkin Pie recipe! This classic fall dessert is a must-have at many holiday gatherings. It's filled with sweet and spiced pumpkin filling, all encased within a flaky pie crust. This recipe provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to create your very own homemade pumpkin pie. It's easier than you might think! Expect to spend around 15 minutes on preparation and an hour for baking. The end result is a fragrant, tasty pie with a firm yet creamy filling, subtly spiced and perfect when served with a dollop of whipped cream. This recipe yields one 9-inch pie, equivalent to 8 servings. Immerse yourself into the holiday spirit with this delightful pumpkin pie recipe!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe? Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you prefer.
  2. Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin puree? Yes, you can substitute fresh pumpkin puree for canned pumpkin. However, make sure to adjust the consistency and moisture level accordingly.
  3. Can I use a different type of milk instead of evaporated milk? Yes, you can use regular milk or any non-dairy milk as a substitute for evaporated milk. However, the texture and taste may vary slightly.
  4. Can I freeze pumpkin pie? Yes, you can freeze pumpkin pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
  5. Can I make the pie ahead of time? Yes, you can make the pie ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  6. Can I add whipped cream or any toppings to the pie? Yes, you can serve the pie with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the pumpkin pie filling.
  • Whisk - To beat the eggs and mix the ingredients together.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Pie Dish - A 9-inch pie dish to hold the pie crust and filling.
  • Pie Server - To cut and serve the pumpkin pie.
  • Wire Rack - To cool the pie after baking.
  • Oven Mitts - To safely handle the hot pie dish and remove it from the oven.
  • Spatula - To help remove and serve the pie slices.
  • Pie Crust Shield - Optional, to prevent the edges of the pie crust from over-browning.

Origin stories

Pumpkin pie, a beloved fall and holiday dessert, has surprisingly humble and practical origins. It can be traced back to early European settlers in North America, who were introduced to pumpkins by Native Americans. As pumpkins were plentiful, nutritious, and lasted well into the winter, they became a staple food. The settlers would hollow out the pumpkins, fill them with milk, honey, and spices to make a custard, then bake the whole pumpkin in the hot ashes of a dying fire. These "pumpkin puddings" were a far cry from the sweet, spiced pies we know and love today, but they laid the groundwork for the evolution of the pumpkin pie. Over centuries, as the dish evolved and pastry crust was added, pumpkin pie gained the iconic status it enjoys today, particularly as a centerpiece of Thanksgiving celebrations.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.