Oh, there’s just something magical about pumpkin cream pie, isn’t there? The moment you slice into that golden crust and reveal the silky, smooth filling is pure bliss. I remember the first time I made this pie during a cozy fall gathering with friends. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the kitchen, and as we dug in, I was met with smiles and happy sighs. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to whip it up every autumn!
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cream Pie
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade, whichever you prefer!)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh, just make sure it’s pure pumpkin!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (this is what gives it that dreamy texture)
- 1/2 cup sugar (to sweeten it just right)
- 2 large eggs (for that perfect custard-like filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (a splash of flavor magic)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (the warm hug of spices)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (just a pinch for that earthy depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (it balances all the sweetness beautifully)
- Whipped cream for topping (because what’s pumpkin pie without it?)
How to Prepare Pumpkin Cream Pie
Getting ready to make your pumpkin cream pie is easier than you might think! Let’s dive right into it. First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your pie is ready to go in. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. Next, add in the heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, stirring well until everything is blended. Pour this luscious mixture into your pie crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and just slightly wobbly. Let it cool completely before serving, as this will help it maintain its shape. Top it off with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the pre-made pie crust.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly jiggles in the center.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving for the best texture.
- Top with whipped cream just before serving.
Nutritional Information
Just a little heads up: the nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. But to give you a general idea, here’s what you can expect from a single slice of this delightful pumpkin cream pie:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
This pie is a sweet treat, so just keep that in mind as you indulge! Enjoy every creamy, spiced bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy fall days!
- Deliciously creamy and rich flavor that’s a true crowd-pleaser.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for various diets.
- Uses simple, accessible ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The combination of spices creates that cozy autumn vibe in every bite.
- Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a comforting dessert any time!
- Can be made ahead of time—just chill and serve when you’re ready!
Tips for Success
To make your pumpkin cream pie truly exceptional, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, if you can, use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. It really elevates the flavor and gives a more vibrant taste—plus, it’s a fun way to embrace the season! Just roast a small pumpkin until it’s tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth.
Chilling the pie is key! After baking, let it cool completely at room temperature, then pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps firm up the filling and makes for easier slicing. Trust me, the wait is worth it when you’re rewarded with that perfect slice.
Also, don’t skimp on the spices! A little extra cinnamon or even a touch of ginger can really enhance the flavor profile. And remember, if you want a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs on top of your whipped cream. Happy baking!
Variations of Pumpkin Cream Pie
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, I’ve got some fun variations for you to try! First, consider adding a splash of maple syrup to the filling for a deeper sweetness and that lovely fall flavor. You can also experiment with spices—try adding a bit of ginger or allspice for an extra kick that’ll warm you right up.
For a twist on the crust, how about using a gingersnap crust instead of the traditional pie crust? It adds a delightful spiciness that complements the pumpkin beautifully. You could also go gluten-free with a crust made from almond flour or crushed nuts mixed with butter.
If you’re a chocolate lover, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the top of the whipped cream or even folding in some mini chocolate chips into the filling for a delicious surprise. The options are endless! So don’t be afraid to get creative—your pumpkin cream pie can be as unique as you are!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your delicious pumpkin cream pie, the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even more! I love serving it alongside a steaming cup of spiced chai or a classic cup of coffee. The warm spices in both the drink and the pie create a cozy vibe that’s just perfect for fall.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider pairing the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of homemade whipped cream on the side. It adds a delightful creaminess that complements the pie’s texture beautifully. You could even drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra touch of indulgence!
For a lighter option, serve it with a side of fresh fruit, like sliced apples or pears, which provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pie. And don’t forget about savory sides! A simple cheese platter with some mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the pie, making for a well-rounded dessert experience. Enjoy the cozy flavors and happy gatherings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious pumpkin cream pie properly is key to keeping it fresh and tasty! Once your pie has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container if you have one handy. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days—perfect for those late-night cravings or unexpected guests!
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, let’s be honest!), and you want to savor that pumpkin goodness later, you can freeze the pie as well. Just slice it into individual pieces, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw a slice in the refrigerator overnight.
As for reheating, pumpkin cream pie is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it, as it can make the filling too soft. Enjoy every delightful bite, whether fresh or warmed up!
Print
Pumpkin Cream Pie: 7 Reasons You’ll Fall in Love
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious pumpkin cream pie with a smooth filling and a crispy crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Add cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; stir well.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until set.
- Let it cool before serving.
- Top with whipped cream before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh pumpkin puree for better flavor.
- Chill the pie before serving for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: pumpkin cream pie
