Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of the year, and let me tell you, the desserts are a huge part of that joy! I love gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. This *easy Thanksgiving dessert* is my go-to because it’s simple to whip up yet bursting with that warm, cozy flavor we all crave. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll create a scrumptious pumpkin pie that captures the essence of the season without any fuss. Trust me, whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will leave you feeling accomplished and your loved ones begging for seconds. Let’s dive into this delightful treat that’s sure to shine at your Thanksgiving feast!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust
How to Prepare Instructions
Getting this *easy Thanksgiving dessert* ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious pumpkin pie that’ll impress everyone at your table. Let’s get started!
Preparing the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential because you want your pie to bake evenly and thoroughly. While the oven is heating up, you can get everything else ready. Trust me, starting off with a hot oven makes all the difference!
Mixing Ingredients
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of sugar, and the 3 large eggs. Don’t forget the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a sprinkle of 1/4 teaspoon of salt! Using a whisk or an electric mixer, blend these ingredients together until everything is smooth and creamy. It should smell heavenly by now!
Assembling the Dessert
Next, it’s time to pour that lovely mixture into the pre-made pie crust. Gently pour the filling into the crust, starting from the center and letting it spread out. This helps avoid any spills! If you’re worried about making a mess, you can place the pie crust on a baking sheet first, just in case.
Baking Instructions
Pop your assembled pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle—perfectly normal! Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool completely before serving. This cooling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully, so patience is key here!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time of just 15 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday!
- Delightful flavor that captures the essence of Thanksgiving with every bite.
- Perfect for gatherings—it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
- Vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can indulge without worry.
- Simple ingredients make it accessible for cooks of all levels.
- Warm, cozy aromas will fill your kitchen and set the mood for the celebration.
Tips for Success
If you want to elevate this *easy Thanksgiving dessert* to the next level, I’ve got some pro tips just for you! Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference in flavor and presentation.
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best taste, try to use fresh ground spices instead of pre-packaged ones. Fresh cinnamon and nutmeg bring out a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible!
- Chill Your Cream: If you’re planning to serve whipped cream on top, chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand. This helps the cream whip up beautifully and hold its shape!
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Letting your pie cool completely is crucial. It helps the filling set properly, making each slice clean and beautiful. Plus, it gives the flavors a chance to deepen.
- Experiment with Toppings: While whipped cream is a classic, don’t hesitate to get creative! Try a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dessert actually gets better with a little time! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to impressing everyone with this scrumptious pumpkin pie. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information Section
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here are the typical nutritional values for each slice of this *easy Thanksgiving dessert*. Keep in mind that these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what to expect when you indulge in this delicious pumpkin pie!
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 15g
So, while you’re enjoying this delectable dessert, you can feel good about treating yourself to a seasonal favorite! Happy feasting!
FAQ Section
Can I use homemade pie crust?
Absolutely! While I love the convenience of a pre-made pie crust, making your own can add a personal touch and flavor that’s hard to beat. If you decide to go the homemade route, just make sure it’s well-chilled before adding the filling. A flaky, buttery crust will elevate this *easy Thanksgiving dessert* to the next level!
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftovers of this delicious pumpkin pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. It’s a perfect treat for those post-Thanksgiving snack cravings!
Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this pie! To do so, make sure it’s completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. It’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. You might want to add fresh whipped cream just before serving for that special touch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your scrumptious *easy Thanksgiving dessert*, you might have some leftovers, and trust me, you’ll want to keep them for later! To store your pumpkin pie, make sure it’s completely cooled down, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will keep it fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in from the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days without losing that delicious flavor!
If you’re thinking about freezing it, you can absolutely do that too! Just follow the same cooling and wrapping process, but make sure to use a freezer-safe container or wrap it extra tight to prevent freezer burn. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice again, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. No need to rush this part—patience is key!
As for reheating, if you prefer your pie warm, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat it, as you don’t want it to dry out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This way, you’ll get that lovely warm texture while keeping the flavors intact. Enjoy every bite of your delightful pumpkin pie, whether fresh or reheated!
Print
Easy Thanksgiving Dessert: 5 Steps to Pumpkin Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious dessert perfect for Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix pumpkin puree, cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until set.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh spices for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: easy thanksgiving dessert
