Classic Pumpkin Pie

Classic Pumpkin Pie is one of those timeless desserts that brings warmth, comfort, and nostalgia with every bite. With its silky pumpkin filling, fragrant spices, and buttery, flaky crust, this dessert has become an iconic staple during the fall season—especially around Thanksgiving.

What makes it truly special is the perfect harmony between the smooth custard-like texture and the cozy aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It is a dessert that evokes memories of family gatherings, festive holidays, and chilly evenings spent indoors with loved ones.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and depth of flavor. Every ingredient plays an important role, and nothing is overly complicated.

The custard filling is incredibly smooth and creamy, yet still firm enough to slice beautifully. The spices create that unmistakable pumpkin pie taste—comforting, aromatic, and slightly sweet with subtle warmth.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This Classic Pumpkin Pie is a must-try because it is the ultimate representation of fall flavors. It brings the essence of the season into your home and creates a dessert experience that is both traditional and impressive.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it warm, chilled, or even with various toppings like whipped cream, caramel, or ice cream.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes (including cooling)
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: Approximately 320 calories per slice (varies with crust and toppings)

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Crust

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, and spices.
4. Add eggs and whisk until smooth.
5. Slowly add evaporated milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is fully combined.
6. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
7. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes.
8. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35–45 minutes, or until the center barely jiggles.
9. Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare your pie crust and fit it into the pie dish.
2. Combine dry ingredients: sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Mix in the pumpkin puree until smooth.
4. Whisk in eggs one at a time.
5. Add evaporated milk and vanilla; whisk until creamy and well-blended.
6. Pour the filling into the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake at a high temperature initially to set the crust, then lower the heat to bake the filling evenly.
8. Check for doneness by inserting a knife near the center—it should come out mostly clean.
9. Cool the pie completely to allow the filling to set fully.

How to Serve

• Serve warm, room temperature, or chilled.
• Top with homemade whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Dust lightly with cinnamon before serving for added aroma.
• Pair with hot coffee, chai, or apple cider for a seasonal treat.

Recipe Tips

• For a smoother filling, strain the mixture before pouring into the crust.
• Cover the crust edges with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
• Do not overbake—the center should still have a slight wobble when removed from the oven.
• For extra richness, replace evaporated milk with half-and-half.

Variations

Spiced Maple Pumpkin Pie
Add 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup and increase cinnamon slightly for a deeper sweetness.

Graham Cracker Crust Pumpkin Pie
Use a graham cracker crust for a more rustic, sweet, and crunchy base.

Cream Cheese Swirl Pumpkin Pie
Add dollops of sweetened cream cheese and swirl for a marbled effect.

Coconut Pumpkin Pie
Add 1/4 cup coconut milk to the filling and sprinkle toasted coconut on top.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator:
Store slices or the whole pie covered tightly for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze the fully baked and cooled pie for up to 2 months.
• Wrap in plastic wrap and foil for best protection.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Balloon whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (for crust edge protection)
• Cooling rack

Conclusion

Classic Pumpkin Pie is a timeless, comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall in every slice. With its velvety texture, warm spices, and buttery crust, it is a dessert that brings joy to holiday tables and everyday meals alike. This recipe is dependable, flavorful, and easy to customize, making it a must-have addition to your baking collection. Whether you enjoy it warm with whipped cream or chilled straight from the fridge, this pie is guaranteed to satisfy your seasonal cravings.