The holidays are all about gathering with loved ones, sharing memories, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. One dish that stands out among the many festive options is the Easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie. This delightful dessert combines the warm and inviting flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of condensed milk and the nostalgia of spices that remind us of autumn. As the pie cools, the rich aroma wafts through the air, urging everyone to gather around the table. Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also provides a creamy texture that perfectly complements a flaky crust, making it a crowd favorite.

What sets this Easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie apart is its versatility. While it shines during the Thanksgiving feast, it is also a fantastic option for casual gatherings or as a comforting treat during chilly fall evenings. With just a handful of ingredients, including pantry staples like pumpkin puree and egg, you can whip up this pie in no time. The perfectly balanced sweet and spiced filling is sure to evoke the comforting feeling of home. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it an option for various dietary preferences.

So, this Thanksgiving, instead of sticking with the same old dessert routine, try your hand at this Easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie. You won’t just be serving a dessert; you’ll be creating a heartwarming moment that friends and family will cherish. Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know to whip up this pie flawlessly!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie

Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Comforting Flavor: The harmonious blend of pumpkin, spices, and sweetened condensed milk creates a flavor that’s reminiscent of holiday warmth and home.
Customizable: You can switch up the spices or add additional flavors to make it uniquely yours.
Perfect for Leftovers: Leftover pie can be refrigerated and enjoyed for several days, making it a fantastic pre-prepared treat.
Show-stopping Dessert: Serve it at gatherings, and it’s sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and delightful taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making your Easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by making sure you have a clean workspace and all your ingredients measured and ready. This organization will streamline your cooking process.

You’ll need the following tools:

A 9-inch deep-dish pie pan – This will hold your pie crust and filling seamlessly.
A mixing bowl – A large bowl for whisking together the filling ingredients.
A whisk – Essential for blending the ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy in your ingredient quantities.
A spatula – For smoothing the filling into the crust.

Don’t forget to preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) before you begin preparing the filling! This step ensures your pie will bake evenly.

Ingredients

1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
2 large eggs
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s warming up, take your pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it fits snugly. If you are using a store-bought crust, simply unroll it carefully and tuck it into the dish without stretching. This crust will form the foundation of your pie.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract. Using a whisk, blend the mixture thoroughly until it becomes smooth and creamy. Take a moment to taste a small amount; the flavor should be perfectly balanced between sweet and spiced, inviting you to lick the spoon!

Step 3: Fill the Crust

Carefully pour your filling into the prepared pie crust, using a spatula to scrape all the flavorful mixture into the crust. Smooth the top with the spatula to ensure an even bake. This will also help in achieving that lovely custard-like texture once it bakes.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

Place your pie in the preheated oven and let it bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. After this initial bake time, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35 to 40 minutes. During this time, keep an eye on the pie. It’s ready when the center remains slightly jiggly; it will firm up as it cools.

Step 5: Cool & Chill

Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 2 hours. This resting period is essential, allowing the filling to set. After it has cooled, cover it and refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This chilling not only enhances the flavor but also allows the texture to develop beautifully.

Variations

Protein: Add cooked, diced bacon for a savory twist or even chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
Vegetables: Try mixing in pureed butternut squash along with pumpkin for added flavor depth.
Spices: Boost the spices by adding cinnamon chips or a hint of nutmeg for extra warmth.

Cooking Notes

Baking time may vary based on your oven, so always check for doneness with a gentle jiggle test.
If you prefer a more intense pumpkin flavor, consider using fresh roasted pumpkin blended to a puree.
Using a deep-dish pie crust gives you ample filling and prevents overflow during baking.
When cooling, it’s important to not rush the process—allow the pie to set properly for optimal texture.
If the edges of your crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil for the remaining baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
Sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the cream for added flavor and presentation.

Tips

Always taste your filling before baking to ensure the sweetness and spice levels are to your liking.
If you’re in a hurry, stores sell ready-made pie crusts that save you time in preparation.
Make mini versions of this pie in muffin tins for a fun twist, perfect for portion control.
Don’t skip the chilling time; it greatly enhances the overall flavor and makes for a more enjoyable pie.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling)

Nutritional Information

Calories: 300
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 250mg

FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve, making it an ideal holiday dessert.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

You can make a homemade version using milk and sugar, but keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to four days, but it’s best eaten fresh to enjoy the full flavor.

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking or after. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before baking or serving.

Conclusion

This Easy Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home, ideal for family gatherings and special occasions. With its rich, spiced filling and tender crust, it offers a taste of tradition that warms the soul. Whether enjoyed plain or with whipped cream, every bite brings out the flavors of the season, creating memories around the table that will last a lifetime. We hope you give this recipe a try and share your experiences or any exciting variations in the comments below. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, laughter, and delicious pie!