Thanksgiving desserts hold a special place in my heart—they’re like the sweet icing on the cake of a wonderful holiday filled with family and gratitude. When I think of the perfect Thanksgiving dessert, my mind instantly drifts to this delightful pumpkin pie, which is a harmonious blend of rich pumpkin and warm spices that just screams comfort. Every bite is like a cozy hug! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I can still remember the first time I made it with my grandma, her laughter mixing with the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the kitchen. Trust me, there’s something magical about pulling this pie from the oven and sharing it with loved ones that makes Thanksgiving feel complete. So, let’s dive into this deliciousness together!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Dessert
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get your oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because a properly preheated oven ensures your pie bakes evenly, giving you that perfect filling texture we all crave. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!
Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. You’ll want to mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth—think of it as creating a velvety pumpkin hug! I usually use a whisk for this, but a hand mixer works just as well if you want to save some elbow grease.
Add Spices and Salt
Now it’s time to bring in the flavors! Add in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined. This is where your kitchen will start to smell like a warm, cozy fall day—so delightful! Just make sure there are no lumps; you want this filling to be as smooth as possible.
Pour into Pie Crust
Grab that pre-made pie crust and carefully pour the delicious pumpkin mixture into it. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly—no one wants a lopsided pie! It’s okay if it’s a bit messy; the rustic look adds to the charm.
Bake the Pie
Pop that bad boy in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set, but the center has a slight jiggle—like a gentle wave! If you insert a toothpick, it should come out clean. Keep an eye on it, as every oven is a little different!
Cooling Instructions
Once it’s baked to perfection, you’ll want to let the pie cool before serving. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture! I usually let it sit for at least an hour, but if you can wait longer, even better! It allows those flavors to deepen and mingle beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just about an hour!
- Delicious flavor that perfectly balances sweet pumpkin with warm spices.
- Festive appeal—this pie is a showstopper on any Thanksgiving table!
- Easy to make ahead, so you can enjoy more time with family and friends.
- Classic American dessert that brings back fond memories and traditions.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delightful Thanksgiving dessert. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the exact ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect!
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
This pie is a perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, making it a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving feast! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something special.
FAQ Section
I’ve gathered some common questions you might have about this Thanksgiving dessert, so let’s clear up any confusion and get you ready to bake!
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin can give your pie a lovely flavor. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before using it in the recipe. It’s a little extra work, but totally worth it if you want that fresh taste!
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. Just make sure to cover it well so it doesn’t dry out or absorb any other fridge odors. Trust me, you’ll want to keep it close by for those late-night snack cravings!
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can freeze this pie! Just make sure it’s completely cooled first, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. It’s like having a little slice of Thanksgiving magic waiting for you!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your Thanksgiving dessert turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my best tips that I swear by:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Getting your eggs and cream to room temperature helps them blend into the pumpkin puree more smoothly. It makes a big difference in texture, trust me!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air and lead to cracks in your pie as it bakes. We want a smooth, creamy filling!
- Check for Doneness: To know if your pie is ready, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go! If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
- Let It Cool: Allowing your pie to cool completely will enhance its flavor and texture. It might be tempting to dig in right away, but patience really pays off!
- Serve with a Twist: While whipped cream is a classic topping, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a fun twist. It can take your pumpkin pie to the next level!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Thanksgiving dessert that not only tastes incredible but looks beautiful too. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying this delightful Thanksgiving dessert, the toppings and accompaniments can truly elevate the experience! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this scrumptious pumpkin pie:
- Whipped Cream: A classic choice! I love a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. It adds a light, airy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast with the warm pie. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the filling—pure bliss!
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over each slice for an extra touch of sweetness. It gives a lovely richness that complements the spices beautifully.
- Chocolate Shavings: For a fun twist, sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top. The chocolate adds a delightful depth of flavor that’s unexpected but oh-so-good!
- Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top before serving enhances the warm spices in the pie. It’s a simple yet effective way to bring out those cozy flavors.
- Toast Pecans: Chopped, toasted pecans can add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the smooth filling. They’re a perfect textural addition!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your perfect plate! No matter how you choose to serve it, this pumpkin pie is sure to be the star of your Thanksgiving dessert spread. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Thanksgiving dessert: 7 reasons to love this pumpkin pie
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful Thanksgiving dessert that combines the flavors of pumpkin and spices.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Add cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let the pie cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream on top.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can be made a day ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: thanksgiving dessert, pumpkin pie, holiday dessert
