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    Home » Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe

    Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe

    Published: Sep 5, 2019 · Modified: Nov 18, 2022 by Laura · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Jump to Recipe

    This is the best Pumpkin Pie Recipe ever! It's easy to make and contains no sweetened condensed milk! It is the only pumpkin pie recipe you'll ever need - perfect for Thanksgiving.

    Front/overhead view of a slice of the best pumpkin pie on a plate

    I know that I'm making a bold clam when I say that this is the Best Pumpkin Pie recipe ever. But I wouldn't say such a thing if I didn't believe it was 100% true.

    Literally everyone who tries this Pumpkin Pie Recipe falls in love with it. It's a beautiful blend of creamy, spicy sweet flavors that encompass all that is wonderful about fall.

    Plus it's easy to make with only 10 ingredients and no condensed milk! Serve with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for fall dessert perfection!

    Overhead view of a baked pumpkin pie recipe in a white pie plate

    Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe: Ingredients & Substitutions

    The great thing about this pie is that it is actually fairly versatile (for a pie)! You can tweak a few ingredients to make this pie suitable for all sorts of dietary needs!

    overhead view of the ingredients in this Pumpkin Pie Recipe
    • All-purpose flour: Gluten-free purpose flour can be used in a 1:1 ratio to make this pie! You can also substitute your favorite gluten-free crust if desired!
    • Butter. Vegan butter (such as Earth Balance) can be used for a dairy-free version!
    • Heavy Cream. Half and half is a great substitute. For dairy-free options choose full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream. Dairy-free creamer can also be used, just watch out for the added sugars!
    • Light Brown Sugar: dark brown sugar is a good substitute, but note that it will impart a bolder molasses taste. Coconut sugar also works well.
    • Pumpkin puree. Use a 15 oz can of pure pumpkin puree, or make your own from a fresh pie pumpkin (instructions in the recipe card). Can't find pumpkin? Make this sweet potato pie instead!
    • Pumpkin pie spice. Use store-bought or make your own with this homemade pumpkin pie spice recipe!
    A slice of Pumpkin Pie on a plate

    Tools used to make this recipe

    • I used these Fall Pie Crust Cutters to make the pretty shapes around the crust (and made 1.5x the recipe in order to do so)!
    • I have had this Marble Rolling Pin for 10 years and use it all the time!
    • A pastry cloth is an absolute must to make transferring the pie into your pie plate a breeze!
    • I have used my food processor for so many things over the years I can't even count. It's the only way I will make pie crusts because it's so so easy!
    • And obviously a pie plate is a must-have! I love this one as a simple yet elegant, and affordable option! 
    Pumpkin pie in a pie dish with a slice cut out

    How to make Pumpkin Pie

    Many people think homemade pies (like apple pie, French Silk Pie and sweet potato pie) are intimidating but they really aren't!

    You absolutely will not regret making this pumpkin pie from scratch. Don't forget to watch the video for extra help!

    Make the Crust

    I have an entire tutorial on how to make an all-butter pie crust. It's the best pie crust ever!

    Just be sure to remember that you need to make the crust and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before rolling it out. so plan accordingly.

    overhead view of the best pumpkin pie crust before shaping

    Make the Pumpkin Pie Filling

    This pumpkin pie filling is so easy to make! Simply whisk all the ingredients together and you're done! I like to make it while the crust is chilling so that it's ready to go! 

    overhead view of the pumpkin pie filling in a glass bowl with a spatula

    Shape the pie crust

    After chilling and rolling, shape the pumpkin pie crust to fit in your favorite pie dish. I like to use these fall pie crust cutters to cut fun shapes into any extra dough! Then bake them in the preheated oven separately from your pie for 5-8 minutes, and decorate the top of the pie once it's cooled!

    overhead view of a pumpkin pie crust shaped into the pie plate

    Fill the crust

    Fill the crust with the pumpkin pie filling quickly. You do not want the crust to get warm before baking! 

    front view of pumpkin pie filling being poured into the crust to make the best pumpkin pie recipe

    Bake

    Place your pumpkin pie into the oven to bake. I recommend using a pie crust shield or aluminum foil to cover the crust, otherwise it will brown before the filling is done. 

    Remove the pie crust shield int he last 10 minutes of baking to be sure the crust gets golden-brown! You know the pie is done when:

    1. The top will be set and slightly puffed. 
    2. It will be set on the edge and have a very slight jiggle in the middle! 
    3. A cake tester inserted in the middle of the pie will come out clean. But a word of warning, I don't like to do this because it leaves a hole in the center of the pie and might cause it to crack as it cools. You could cover up the hole with a pretty pie crust design, but I'd be careful!
    front view of the best pumpkin pie recipe in a white pie dish before baking

    Let it cool

    After it's baked this pie needs to cool for at least 2 hours on a wire rack. You can put it in the fridge (or outside on your cold porch) to speed up the process.

    Store in the refrigerator

    After it has cooled for 2 hours at room temperature, pumpkin pie needs to be stored in the refrigerator until serving. 

    overhead view of the best pumpkin pie recipe in a white pie dish after baking

    To Freeze

    This pie freezes very well! There are 2 ways to freeze this recipe:

    1. Freeze the entire pie. Simply bake and chill the pie, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and serving. 
    2. Freeze individual slices. If you have a few leftover slices you want to freeze, place them on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer to flash-freeze them. Then, once they're frozen, wrap them in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator for about 6 hours. 

    front view of a slice of Pumpkin Pie on a plate with a pie crust pumpkin on top

    FAQs about Pumpkin Pie

    Here are some commonly asked questions about making this pumpkin pie recipe!

    Why is my pumpkin pie wet on top? 

    If your pumpkin pie develops droplets of water on top (or "weeps") that likely means that it was over baked. It will still taste delicious, just adjust the baking time the next time you make it!

    Does Pumpkin Pie set after baking? 

    Yes. Since this pumpkin pie recipe is more like a custard, it will continue to bake after it's removed from the oven. It will also set up as it cools. 

    Why does my pumpkin pie separate from the crust? 

    Pumpkin pie filling separates from the crust after baking because it shrinks. This happens more dramatically if the pie is over baked, so watch your baking time carefully!

    How do you know when pumpkin pie is ready? 

    There are a few ways to tell that your pumpkin pie is baked! 
    The top will be set and slightly puffed. 
    It will be set on the edge and have a very slight jiggle in the middle! 
    A cake tester inserted in the middle of the pie will come out clean. But a word of warning, I don't like to do this because it leaves a hole in the center of the pie and might cause it to crack as it cools. You could cover up the hole with a pretty pie crust design, but I'd be careful!

    What can I make with pumpkin? 

    I have lots of delicious ideas for you if you're looking to make something with pumpkin, besides this pumpkin pie of course!
    Make a loaf of the BEST pumpkin bread ever! 
    Try this dairy-free pumpkin pie which is equally delicious! 
    Pumpkin baked oatmeal is one of our favorite fall breakfasts! 
    Baked pumpkin donuts are another yummy breakfast for special days!
    This no-bake vegan pumpkin cheesecake is great if you have people in your family with food allergies! Also this paleo pumpkin bread, these paleo pumpkin muffins, and these mini vegan pumpkin pies!
    Make a batch of this pumpkin coffee creamer. It's healthy and delicious! 
    This pumpkin smoothie tastes like a liquid pumpkin pie but it's so much healthier and only takes 5 minutes to make!
    This literally the best pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting I've ever had - ever. 

    front view of a piece of the best pumpkin pie recipe on a plate with a bite taken out

    If you make and love our recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don't forget to follow along with us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Youtube - be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag #joyfoodsunshine so we can your creations!

    The Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe Ever!

    Laura
    This is the best Pumpkin Pie Recipe ever! It's easy to make and contains no sweetened condensed milk! It is the only pumpkin pie recipe you'll ever need - perfect for Thanksgiving.
    5 from 198 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save Recipe Saved!
    Prep Time 10 mins
    Cook Time 1 hr
    Chilling time 1 hr
    Total Time 2 hrs 10 mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Servings 10 Slices
    Calories 294 kcal

    Equipment

    • measuring spoons
    • measuring cups
    • spatula
    • glass batter bowl
    • Food processor
    • whisk
    • pie crust shield
    • pie dish
    • cake tester

    Ingredients
     
     

    Filling:

    • 3 large eggs
    • 15 oz pumpkin puree (2 cups)
    • 1 cup heavy cream or half & half
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • ¾ cup light brown sugar
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
    • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

    Pie Crust:

    • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
    • ½ teaspoon sea salt
    • 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
    • ½ cup salted butter chilled, and cut into 1 inch pieces**
    • ¼ cup cold water
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions
     

    Make the pie Crust:

    • Place the flour, salt, and sugar in a food processor fitted with an “S” blade and pulse to combine.
    • Add the butter and cold water and process until the mixture resembles a coarse meal, begins to stick together, and holds together when pinched. 
    • Remove dough from processor (will be crumbly) and form into a ball.
    • Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or overnight

    Make the filling:

    • In a large bowl, beat the eggs. 
    • Whisk in the pumpkin, cream and vanilla extract until combined.
    • Add brown sugar, salt, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice and mix until completely combined.

    Putting it together

    • Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
    • Lightly grease a pie plate and set aside.
    • Roll out your pie dough on a well-floured surface (pastry cloth) to fit the size of your pie plate.
    • Carefully transfer the dough to the pie plate and shape the crust how you want it to look.
    • Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust and cover the crust with a pastry shield
    • Bake for 15 minutes at 425 degrees F. 
    • Reduce the temperature to 350 degrees F and continue to bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted comes out clean.  It may be a bit wobbly still, but it will firm-up as it cools.
    • Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for 2 hours (Be patient! This is important).  Serve or refrigerate until ready to serve.

    Video

    Notes

    Ingredient substitutions: 
    • Pumpkin puree. You can use a 15 oz can of pumpkin puree, or 2 cups of fresh homemade pumpkin puree. 
    • All-purpose flour: Gluten-free purpose flour can be used in a 1:1 ratio to make this pie! You can also use a store bought crust. 
    • Heavy Cream. There are many possible substitutions for heavy cream! I have used half & half for a dairy-full variation. 
    • Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar can be used in this recipe! Coconut sugar is a great refined-sugar free alternative!
    How to make homemade pumpkin puree
    To make your own pumpkin puree you will need 2 pie pumpkins. Follow these instructions: 
    1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F
    2. Cut pumpkins in half and remove the pulp and seeds. 
    3. Place pumpkins facedown in a baking dish, dutch oven or on a sheet pan with edges. 
    4. Pour water into the bottom of the baking dish to cover about ¼" of the bottom of the pumpkins. 
    5. Cover, either with a lid (as in a dutch oven) or with aluminum foil. 
    6. Roast for 60 minutes, or until the shell of the pumpkin depresses downward when pushed. 
    7. Let pumpkins cool, then peel the shell off of the pumpkin.
    8.  Blend the pumpkin flesh in a blender or process in a food processor until smooth. Then use in your baking!
    Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
    Use this recipe to make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice! 
    Or, to make only 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice combine: 
    • 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
    • ½ tsp nutmeg
    • ½ tsp cloves
    • ½ tsp allspice
    Serve
    Serve with a dollop of homemade whipped cream for an extra special treat!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1sliceCalories: 294kcalCarbohydrates: 30.3gProtein: 4.5gFat: 19.6gSaturated Fat: 11.8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5.5gCholesterol: 113.2mgSodium: 154.6mgPotassium: 103.2mgFiber: 1.9gSugar: 13.7gVitamin A: 4475IUVitamin C: 0.8mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 1.3mg
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase a product through a link you clicked on here, I receive a portion of the sale. Thank you for supporting JoyFoodSunshine!

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Veronica

      February 28, 2023 at 1:49 pm

      5 stars
      Most delicious pumpkin pie , I’ve ever made! My husband told me to make sure I keep this recipe. Will be made again, and this wasn’t even Thanksgiving or Christmas. Think the heavy cream made a big difference! Yum….

      Reply
      • Laura

        March 01, 2023 at 7:27 am

        Thank you so much Veronica! I feel like pumpkin pie could, and definitely should be made year round - not just over the holidays!

        Reply
    2. Candace

      January 29, 2023 at 2:33 pm

      5 stars
      This was really great! I must have done something wrong with the crust ‘cuz it was tough, but the filling is amazing! Seriously, the best I’ve had.

      I was intrigued and so also experimented with individually freezing a couple of leftover slices. I was dumbfounded that it could be done and it really tasted just as good when I thawed it a few weeks later. Who knew?

      Thanks for a great recipe!

      Reply
      • Laura

        January 31, 2023 at 7:09 am

        Thank you Candace! I'd love to help you with the crust - did you make any substitutions?

        Reply
    3. Laurie

      December 22, 2022 at 12:57 am

      5 stars
      Definitely the best Pumpkin Pie RECIPE for the pumpkin and the crust.
      My dad is very particular and he raved (said don't know what you did but repeat at Christmas Please). My husband will pass every time on Pumpkin pie and why he tried it I have no clue and he raved to his son ( You missed the best Pumpkin Pie ever this year) Awesome. We had family members that raved about it hopefully my brother the chef will at Christmas too I will let you know.. Thank You for sharing and yes this is definitely the best Pumpkin Pie RECIPE 🥰🥰🥰🥰

      Reply
      • Laura

        December 22, 2022 at 6:57 am

        Thank you so much Laurie! I'm so glad your family loves this recipe as much as we do!

        Reply
    4. Kerrie

      December 14, 2022 at 7:28 pm

      4 stars
      The filling for this pie was very tasty and a good consistency but they crust was not good...butter cooks out and chewy. Will not use the crust recipe again.

      Reply
    5. Kristin

      November 27, 2022 at 8:42 pm

      5 stars
      This was a wonderful pie! It tasted better after being refrigerated. Thanks!!

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 28, 2022 at 6:52 am

        Thank you Kristin! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

        Reply
    6. Lacie

      November 26, 2022 at 3:28 pm

      5 stars
      Hi, Laura! I tried out your pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving, and it was amazing! I love the simplicity of your pumpkin pie. When I made this, I didn't have enough time to make my homemade pie crust, so I used a graham cracker crust, which still turned out great. I didn't use pumpkin pie spice; I added an extra teaspoon of cinnamon. I am going to use this recipe next year. Thank you so much for your recipe!

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 27, 2022 at 6:53 am

        Than you so much Lacie!

        Reply
      • Karen

        December 20, 2022 at 2:25 pm

        Can I ask why you grease the pie plate? I have never heard that before.

        Reply
        • Laura

          December 20, 2022 at 2:30 pm

          You don't have to, but I like to spritz it to ensure easy crust removal.

    7. Karen

      November 26, 2022 at 1:04 pm

      5 stars
      I grew up using the recipes on the back of canned Pumpkin Puree,
      or the Betty Crocker style of Holiday Pie. That being said, I still like Betty Crocker's
      Parker House Roll Recipe---Mom made them EVERY Holiday! 🙂
      I just made this Pumpkin Pie Recipe (Sorry Mom & Betty Crocker)---
      It Really IS the BEST Pumpkin Pie Recipe that I have ever tried or made!
      I am 67 yrs young. And My Family LOVED IT!!!
      I will stick with this one for the rest of my days!
      . AND
      1)I I used Fresh Pumpkin Puree (I had made 3 1/2 weeks earlier, & froze)
      2)I Substituted Raw Cane Sugar (Organic) 1/2 cup
      + 1/4 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar For Sweetening
      ---rather than using all Light brown Sugar.
      3) I also used Heavy Cream rather than Canned Evaporated Milk
      Both options are mentioned in the recipe.
      OMG!
      The Pumpkin Pie Was:
      PERFECTLY MOIST- PERFECTLY SWEETENED - PERFECTLY SEASONED!
      JUST WONDEROUSLY FLAVORFUL PUMPKIN PIE PERFECTION!!!

      ***** I would give this pie recipe 10 stars if there was that option.*****

      Reply
      • Laura

        November 27, 2022 at 6:54 am

        Thank you so much for your thorough and thoughtful review Karen! I'm so grateful you loved it! I would like to know how you make your French pumpkin puree!

        Reply
    8. Joy

      November 25, 2022 at 10:37 am

      5 stars
      Phenomenal pumpkin pie! This was so good and will become a holiday family staple. Added to my recipe box to make for years to come. Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
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    About Laura

    I’m Laura, a former chemistry teacher turned homeschooling mom of six beautiful babies! I create simple and delicious recipes that are tested and perfected to make cooking and baking joyful and fun!

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