Name: Mini Individual Pumpkin S’mores Pie Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; Pinch of salt; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves; 3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 8 large marshmallows

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets a little crisper, there’s no denying that fall is the perfect time for baking. One of the most beloved treats that encapsulate the essence of autumn is pumpkin pie, but have you ever thought about putting a twist on this classic dessert? Enter the Mini Individual Pumpkin S’mores Pie Cups! These delightful desserts are not only incredibly cute, but they also marry the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin with the gooey goodness of s’mores. Imagine tiny pumpkin pies perfectly portioned and topped with rich chocolate and fluffy marshmallows, making them an ideal treat for gatherings or a cozy family dessert.

Not only do Mini Pumpkin S’mores Pie Cups capture the festive spirit of fall, but they also offer a variety of textures and flavors that make each bite a heavenly experience. The crispy graham cracker crust provides a buttery crunch, while the smooth pumpkin filling brings a warm spice that’s irresistible. To top it all off, a layer of melted chocolate and a charred marshmallow crown transforms each bite into a nostalgic reminder of campfire nights. Plus, they are easy to whip up in just 45 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute dessert solution!

Whether you’re hosting friends for a fall gathering or simply indulging by yourself, these mini pumpkin pies will surely become a seasonal favorite. Let’s dive into the details of why these Mini Individual Pumpkin S’mores Pie Cups should be your next baking adventure.

Why You’ll Love This Mini Individual Pumpkin S’mores Pie Cups

Fall Flavor: Burst with the flavors of pumpkin and warm spices, making them a perfect autumn treat.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together quickly for a delightful dessert that can be ready in under an hour.
Individual Servings: Pre-portioned servings are perfect for parties, allowing everyone to enjoy their own little pie.
Fun and Versatile: Kids and adults alike will love them, and they’re easy to customize for various tastes.
Decadent Layers: Each cup features a rich graham cracker crust, spiced pumpkin filling, gooey chocolate, and toasted marshmallows.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start baking your Mini Individual Pumpkin S’mores Pie Cups, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. First, ensure that your kitchen is clutter-free, as a tidy workspace will make the cooking process smoother. You’ll need a standard 12-cup muffin tin along with paper liners for easy removal of the mini pies after baking. Having a mixing bowl and whisk ready will help combine your ingredients effectively.

For the crust, a small glass or spoon will be handy for pressing the graham cracker mixture firmly into the muffin liners, creating a sturdy base for your pies. A spatula will be useful for spreading the chocolate toppings smoothly over the pumpkin filling. Additionally, consider having a broiler pan or a heatproof plate at the ready for the broiling step to achieve that perfectly toasted marshmallow top. Finally, clear some counter space for your cooling rack, where the pies can rest post-baking.

Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 large egg
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
3 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
8 large marshmallows

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your muffin tin with 8 paper liners. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix these ingredients together until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will be the base of your mini pies, so ensuring the right texture is important. Once combined, evenly distribute about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture into each liner, pressing down firmly with a small glass or spoon to create a well-formed crust.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the crusts for about 5 minutes. This brief baking time sets the crust and gives it a delightful crunch. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven but keep it on, as we will cook the pumpkin filling next.

Step 3: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

While the crust is cooling slightly, take the time to prepare the pumpkin filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, heavy cream, egg, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the mixture is blended well to create a smooth filling that will complement the texture of your crust.

Step 4: Assemble the Mini Pies

Using a spoon, ladle the pumpkin filling over each baked crust, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This method ensures that there’s enough space for the chocolate and marshmallow topping without overflowing. Place the muffin tin back in the oven and bake for an additional 13 to 15 minutes, or until the centers of the pies are just set.

Step 5: Add Chocolate and Marshmallows

Immediately remove the pan from the oven and distribute the chopped chocolate evenly over the warm pumpkin filling in each cup. Allow the chocolate to soften for about 2 minutes, then gently spread it out using the back of a spoon to create an even layer. After that, place one large marshmallow on top of each mini pie. Return the muffin tin to the oven for another 2 to 3 minutes, until the marshmallows puff up and turn lightly golden. For a more caramelized effect, consider broiling the marshmallows for 30-60 seconds—just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once the marshmallows are toasted to perfection, let the mini pies cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. After that, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delightful treats warm or at room temperature; they’re absolutely delicious no matter how you serve them!

Variations

Protein: Add crumbled bacon or peanut butter for a savory twist.
Vegetables: Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes or a layer of mashed banana for a unique flavor blend.
Spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice or even a touch of cayenne for a subtle heat contrast.

Cooking Notes

Ensure that the pumpkin puree is well-mixed to avoid lumps in the filling.
If you prefer a sweeter dessert, don’t hesitate to add a bit more sugar to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra decadent touch.
Serve alongside a hot cup of apple cider or coffee for balance with the sweetness of the pies.

Tips

For a toasted graham cracker crust, consider baking the crumbs for a few minutes beforehand.
Use kitchen scissors to cut the marshmallows in half for an even toast.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 220
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I prepare the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the crust a day in advance, making it a breeze to assemble the pies when you’re ready.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them if you want to enjoy them later.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! If you have fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it before using it in the recipe.

What if I don’t have semi-sweet chocolate?

You can substitute with milk chocolate or dark chocolate based on your preference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mini Individual Pumpkin S’mores Pie Cups are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that embodies the warmth and flavors of the fall season. Their combination of crispy crust, spiced pumpkin filling, luscious chocolate, and toasted marshmallows make them not just delicious but also a charming presentation for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering or during a quiet evening at home, these mini pies will surely bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, and let the pumpkin s’mores love flow! Feel free to comment below with your thoughts on this recipe or share your own twists!