If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds, look no further than this Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe. With a perfectly flaky crust and a luscious, spiced pumpkin filling, this pie brings together the comforting flavors of fall in every single bite. It’s not just any pumpkin pie; it’s a recipe celebrated for its rich texture, balanced sweetness, and aromatic spices that make every forkful an absolute delight. Trust me, once you try this pie, it will become your go-to dessert for holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion that calls for a touch of homemade magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding creaminess, depth of flavor, or that golden hue we all love. These pantry staples come together effortlessly to create a pie that looks as amazing as it tastes.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade crust for that flaky base that holds all the filling perfectly.
- 1 15 oz can pumpkin puree: The star ingredient, providing the rich, smooth pumpkin flavor and vibrant orange color.
- 1 cup evaporated milk: Adds creaminess without thinning the filling too much, giving it that velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For extra richness and a silky mouthfeel.
- 2 large eggs: These binders give structure to the filling, helping it set beautifully in the oven.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pie to perfection without overpowering the spices.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Brings a subtle molasses undertone that deepens the flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The quintessential warming spice that defines autumn baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a sweet, woody note that enhances the pumpkin’s natural taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Adds a hint of aromatic boldness, balancing the sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing all the flavors and preventing the pie from tasting flat.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle flavor booster that rounds out the whole filling beautifully.
How to Make Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, get your unbaked 9-inch pie crust ready in a pie pan. This step ensures the crust is primed to bake into a golden, crisp base that will perfectly cradle your luscious pumpkin filling.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin and Cream
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. These ingredients blend together to create the creamy base of your filling, giving it that signature smooth texture that makes this Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe so beloved.
Step 3: Add Sugars and Spices
Next, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and vanilla extract to the pumpkin mixture. Stir everything together until well combined—this is where the magic starts to develop, as the spices and sweeteners infuse the filling with those rich, aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Lightly beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then fold them gently into the pumpkin-spice mixture. The eggs help the filling set just right while keeping it creamy and tender. Be sure to mix until smooth but avoid over-beating, which can introduce air bubbles.
Step 5: Fill Your Pie Crust
Pour the silky filling into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly and smoothing the top. A smooth surface allows the pie to bake evenly and achieve that classic, beautiful look everyone admires.
Step 6: Bake in Two Stages
Bake your pie at 425°F for 15 minutes to help set the crust and start the filling’s rise. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-45 minutes. This slower baking phase ensures the filling cooks through gently without cracking, resulting in a perfectly tender and luscious pie.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Once baked, let your Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe cool on a wire rack for at least two hours. This resting time is essential for the filling to fully set, making it easier to slice and enhancing its flavors as it settles.
How to Serve Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving game, top each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or grated nutmeg over the top. Not only do these garnishes complement the spices in the pie, but they also add a refreshing creaminess that balances the rich filling.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin pie pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee, chai, or spiced tea. If you’re serving it at a larger meal, light and crisp salads or fresh fruit are excellent companions that provide a nice contrast to the pie’s indulgent texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the pie in mini tart pans for individual portions, which are perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. You can also drizzle caramel sauce over each slice or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor complexity, giving your Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover pumpkin pie with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy that comforting taste any time without baking it again.
Freezing
You can freeze this pumpkin pie to enjoy later by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes or until heated through. This method refreshes the pie without drying it out, bringing back that freshly-baked feel you love in this Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! If you prefer, roast fresh pumpkin until soft, then puree it until smooth. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid for a consistent texture similar to canned pumpkin puree in the recipe.
Why does my pumpkin pie sometimes crack?
Cracking usually happens when the pie is baked too quickly or at too high a temperature. Following the two-stage baking process in this recipe helps prevent cracks and gives a smooth, creamy filling.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the traditional pie crust with a gluten-free one. Make sure your pumpkin puree and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
Is evaporated milk essential in this pie?
Evaporated milk contributes to the creamy texture and rich flavor that’s hard to replicate with regular milk. You can try substituting with heavy cream or coconut milk, but it may slightly alter the pie’s consistency and taste.
How long should I let the pie cool before serving?
Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature for at least two hours. This cool-down time helps the filling firm up properly, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavor development.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the warm hug of a perfectly baked pumpkin pie, and this Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe truly delivers on every level. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at pumpkin pie for the first time, this recipe’s approachable steps and delightful flavors will make it a cherished tradition. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin, bringing smiles and comfort to everyone at your table.
Print
Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus 2 hours cooling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Award-Winning Pumpkin Pie recipe features a creamy, spiced pumpkin filling nestled in a flaky 9-inch pie crust. Infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and sweetened with a blend of granulated and brown sugar, this classic dessert is perfect for fall celebrations or any occasion that calls for a comforting, flavorful pie.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie pan, ensuring it is fitted properly and ready to hold the filling.
- Mix Pumpkin Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. Stir these ingredients together until well blended and smooth.
- Add Sugars and Spices: Into the pumpkin mixture, add granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly to ensure all spices and sugars are evenly incorporated.
- Incorporate Eggs: Lightly beat the two eggs in a separate bowl. Fold the beaten eggs gently into the pumpkin mixture, blending until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
- Fill the Pie Crust: Pour the prepared pumpkin filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly to smooth the top with a spatula or spoon.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 40 to 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely for at least two hours before serving to let the filling set properly.
Notes
- Ensure the pie crust is fully thawed if pre-made and refrigerated for even baking.
- For best results, use canned pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sugar.
- Allow the pie to cool fully to ensure clean slices when serving.
- Optional: serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Check the pie at 40 minutes during the lower temperature stage to avoid overbaking.
