Festive Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Name: Festive Spiced Pumpkin Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups pumpkin puree; 3/4 cup sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground clove; 3 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

I absolutely love creating the perfect pumpkin pie during the holiday season. There’s something magical about the blend of spices and the rich, creamy pumpkin filling that takes me back to family gatherings around the table. With each slice, I feel the warmth of nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger coming together, making every bite a comforting delight. This recipe is simple yet impressive, allowing everyone to enjoy a classic dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Join me in savoring this festival of flavors with each delicious piece!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-03T15:50:27.445Z

When I first started making pumpkin pie, I was led to believe that a long cooking time was essential for depth of flavor. However, I discovered that a shorter, more controlled bake time allows the spices to remain vibrant and fresh, creating that quintessential festive flavor. I like to roast the pumpkin before mixing it, as this enhances its natural sweetness, making the final pie not only taste incredible but also beautifully rich.

I also mix my spices carefully, experimenting with a hint of allspice or clove, to find just the right balance. This pie has become a staple in my household, and I can’t wait to see how you enjoy it with your loved ones. Don't forget to serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of spices that evoke holiday cheer
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser

      

Perfecting the Pie Crust

The pie crust is the foundation of your pumpkin pie, so it's important to get it just right. If you're using a store-bought crust, let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before unrolling it. This prevents cracking and helps it fit nicely into the pie pan. For a homemade crust, consider using a mix of all-purpose flour and a bit of sugar to enhance the flavor, and chill your ingredients to achieve a flaky texture.

While crimping the edges of the pie crust, aim for a uniform thickness to ensure even baking. If you notice that your crust starts to puff up while baking, using pie weights or dried beans can help keep it flat. Remember to chill the crust for at least 30 minutes before filling to reduce shrinkage during baking, which can lead to an uneven filling.

Choosing Your Pumpkin Puree

The choice of pumpkin puree plays a crucial role in the pie's flavor and texture. Canned pumpkin puree provides a consistent flavor and convenience, but if you're feeling adventurous, roasting and pureeing your own pumpkin can add depth. Select a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin for the best results, as they are sweeter and less watery than standard carving pumpkins.

If you're using fresh pumpkin, be sure to strain the puree to eliminate excess moisture, as too much liquid can lead to a soggy crust. This is especially important if you’ve opted for a homemade crust, as it will be more susceptible to wet fillings. Tasting the puree before adding sugar can also guide you in balancing flavors, ensuring your pie is perfectly sweet.

Ingredients

For the Pie

1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups pumpkin puree
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground clove
3 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Pie Shell

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim the excess crust and crimp the edges. Place the shell in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove. Whisk until well mixed. Add the eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.

Bake the Pie

Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 45 minutes, or until the filling is set.

Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of black pepper to the spice mix
it enhances the flavor complexity. Also, using freshly grated nutmeg can elevate the taste profile immensely! Remember, the pie tastes even better the next day, so consider making it a day ahead.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a busy holiday season, prepping your pie in advance is a smart move. The pie filling can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent any absorption of odors from your fridge. Another option is to prepare the crust ahead of time and freeze it. Wrap it in plastic wrap and store it for up to a month; just thaw it in the fridge before using.

Once the pie is baked, store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap. It will last for up to four days, but be aware that the texture may change slightly as it sits, becoming denser. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked pie for up to two months. Just remember to wrap it well and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your pumpkin pie experience, consider serving it with various toppings. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can enhance the pie's creamy texture and complementary flavors. You might also try adding a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.

For those who enjoy a little extra spice, serving your pie with a side of spiced whipped cream—made by whisking in a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg—adds a festive touch. If you want to experiment, consider serving the pie with a scoop of spiced chai ice cream, which harmonizes beautifully with the warm notes of the filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin can be roasted and pureed, but make sure to remove excess water to avoid a watery filling.

→ How do I store leftover pie?

Leftover pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this pie suitable for gluten-free diets.

→ How can I tell when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the filling is set and slightly jiggles in the center. A knife inserted into the filling should come out clean.