Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when we gather with family, share stories, and indulge in an abundance of delicious food. And let me tell you, no Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a slice of heavenly pumpkin pie. This recipe is my go-to for the holiday because it captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and creamy texture. My grandma used to make this every year, and the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the house was a signal that Thanksgiving was just around the corner. Trust me, this pumpkin pie is the perfect dessert for Thanksgiving dinner, and it’s sure to become a cherished tradition in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful pumpkin pie. I promise these ingredients are simple and easy to find! Make sure to gather the following:
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 pie crust (I recommend a deep dish for extra filling!)
These ingredients come together to create that classic flavor everyone loves. Have them all on hand, and you’re just a few steps away from pumpkin pie perfection!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious pumpkin pie! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that will wow your family and friends.
- First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for starting the baking process perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Wow, the smell already reminds me of Thanksgiving!
- Next, crack in the 3 large eggs. Give everything a good mix until it’s all well combined. You want a smooth and even consistency.
- Now, slowly stir in the 1 cup of evaporated milk. This step adds that creamy richness that makes the pie so luscious.
- Once everything is mixed, carefully pour this delicious pumpkin filling into your prepared pie crust. Make sure to fill it right to the top, but don’t overflow!
- Pop the pie in your preheated oven and bake it for 15 minutes. Then, here’s the trick: reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it!
- To check for doneness, insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean, and the pie should be set but still have a slight jiggle.
- Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This cooling step is essential for the pie to firm up properly before you slice into it.
And there you have it! Your pumpkin pie is ready to be served. Enjoy the anticipation as it cools, and maybe sneak a taste while you wait—no one will know!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pumpkin pie recipe is truly a gem, and here’s why it’s going to be your new favorite for Thanksgiving dinner:
- Quick preparation: You’ll have this pie ready in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family.
- Simple ingredients: All you need are pantry staples and a few fresh items—easy peasy!
- Classic flavor: With warm spices and creamy pumpkin filling, it’s a taste of tradition that everyone loves.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving: This pie is a holiday staple that brings comfort and joy to the table.
- Impressive presentation: Just look at that golden crust and smooth filling! It’s sure to wow your guests.
Trust me, this recipe is bound to become a cherished part of your Thanksgiving celebration!
Tips for Success
To make sure your pumpkin pie turns out absolutely perfect, here are some pro tips I swear by!
- Use a deep-dish pie crust: This allows for more of that delicious filling and prevents overflow during baking.
- Check for doneness: When you insert a knife in the center, it should come out clean, but the pie can still have a slight jiggle; that’s a sign it’s just right!
- Let it cool: Giving your pie time to cool on a wire rack helps it set properly, making it easier to slice.
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking! Add a pinch more cinnamon or a dash of cardamom for a unique twist.
- Serve with flair: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top takes it to the next level!
With these tips, you’ll have a pumpkin pie that’s not just good, but spectacular!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up with your pumpkin pie, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! Here are a few variations that can elevate this classic dessert:
- Maple Pumpkin Pie: Swap out some of the sugar for pure maple syrup to add a rich, caramel-like flavor.
- Chocolate Pumpkin Pie: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful chocolate twist!
- Nutty Crust: Use crushed pecans or walnuts mixed into your pie crust for an extra crunchy texture.
- Spiced Rum: Add a splash of spiced rum to the filling for a warm, festive touch that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Top with flavored whipped cream, like cinnamon or ginger, for an added burst of flavor.
These variations can help keep things exciting and ensure that each Thanksgiving feels a little different while still enjoying the beloved pumpkin pie!
Nutritional Information
As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used, so keep that in mind! Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect per slice of this delicious pumpkin pie:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
This pumpkin pie is a delightful treat that balances indulgence with some nutritional goodness, making it a wonderful dessert for Thanksgiving dinner!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After your Thanksgiving feast, if you find yourself with leftover pumpkin pie (though I doubt it’ll last long!), here’s how to store it properly. First, make sure your pie is completely cooled before covering it. You can wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days!
When you’re ready to enjoy a slice again, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for a bit, or you can pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to warm it up. Trust me, a warm slice with a dollop of whipped cream is pure bliss!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this pumpkin pie? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin beforehand. It’ll add a lovely freshness to your pie.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The best way to check is by inserting a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! The pie should be set but still have a slight jiggle.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the pie a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to serve it?
I recommend serving it with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra touch of holiday magic!
Can I freeze pumpkin pie?
Definitely! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it’ll be good for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Dessert for Thanksgiving Dinner: 7 Reasons You’ll Love It
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious pumpkin pie perfect for Thanksgiving dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Add eggs and mix well.
- Stir in the evaporated milk until combined.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes.
- Let the pie cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Use a deep dish pie crust for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: dessert for thanksgiving dinner
