Name: Great Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 50 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small sugar pumpkin; 1 cup white sugar; ¼ cup amber rum; 1 egg yolk; 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice; 1 tbsp butter; 1½ tbsp dark molasses; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 frozen deep-dish prepared pie crust

This delightful homemade pumpkin pie is rich with the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice and dark molasses. The addition of amber rum gives it a unique twist that will leave your guests asking for more. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in, this pie brings a taste of autumn to your table.

Photos of Great Pumpkin Pie Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to pick up a few special ingredients from the supermarket. Make sure to look for a small sugar pumpkin, which is ideal for baking due to its sweetness. Amber rum adds a depth of flavor, and dark molasses provides a rich, robust sweetness. Ensure you have pumpkin pie spice on hand as it combines several spices that are essential for that classic autumn taste.

Ingredients For Great Pumpkin Pie

Sugar pumpkin: A small pumpkin variety known for its sweet, dense flesh, perfect for baking.

White sugar: Common granulated sugar used for sweetness.

Amber rum: A type of rum with a rich, caramel-like flavor that enhances the pie.

Egg yolk: Adds richness and helps bind the filling.

Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of spices, usually including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Butter: Adds a creamy texture and richness to the pie.

Dark molasses: A thick, dark syrup with a deep, sweet flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.

Frozen deep-dish prepared pie crust: A convenient, ready-to-use crust that saves time on preparation.

One reader, Annabelle Jaimes says:

This great pumpkin pie recipe is a hit! The flavors blend perfectly, and the amber rum adds a delightful twist. The pie is rich, smooth, and absolutely delicious. My family couldn't get enough!

Annabelle Jaimes

Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Pie

How to roast a pumpkin: Preheat the oven, arrange pumpkin halves on a baking sheet with cut sides down, and roast until tender. How to mash pumpkin: Scoop the flesh from the roasted pumpkin halves and mash with a potato masher until smooth. How to puree mixture: Use an immersion blender or electric hand mixer to blend the pumpkin mixture until smooth and thick. How to bake a pie: Pour the pumpkin puree into the pie crust and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

How To Make Great Pumpkin Pie

Serve up a classic dessert for this year’s Thanksgiving celebration with our Great Pumpkin Pie Recipe! Enjoy rich pumpkin flavors with whipped cream on top.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 50 minutes

Total: 2 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1smallsugar pumpkinhalved and seeded
1cupwhite sugar
¼cupamber rum
1eggyolk
1tbsppumpkin pie spice
1tbspbutter
1 ½tbspdark molasses
1tspvanilla extract
1pie crustprepared deep-dish, thawed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Arrange pumpkin halves on a baking sheet, cut sides down.
Roast in preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until tender. Set aside until cool enough to handle, though still warm.
Adjust oven heat to 375 degrees F.
Scoop flesh from pumpkin halves into a bowl. Mash with potato masher.
Measure 2 cups mashed pumpkin into a large mixing bowl. Add sugar, amber rum, egg yolk, pumpkin pie spice, butter, dark molasses, and vanilla extract.
Puree the mixture with an immersion blender or electric hand mixer until smooth and thick. Pour the puree into the pie crust.
Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 359.27kcal
Fat: 9.42g
Saturated Fat: 3.94g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.52g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.09g
Carbohydrates: 64.94g
Fiber: 1.31g
Sugar: 44.62g
Protein: 2.55g
Cholesterol: 22.08mg
Sodium: 127.98mg
Calcium: 82.66mg
Potassium: 806.13mg
Iron: 2.59mg
Vitamin A: 605.73µg
Vitamin C: 12.57mg

Technique Tip for Achieving the Ideal Pumpkin Pie Texture

When roasting the pumpkin, place it cut side down on the baking sheet to allow the natural sugars to caramelize, enhancing the flavor of your pumpkin pie.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Pumpkin Pie

Use canned pumpkin: Substitute the sugar pumpkin with canned pumpkin puree to save time on roasting and mashing.

Pre-made crust: Opt for a frozen deep-dish prepared pie crust to avoid making your own crust from scratch.

Combine ingredients efficiently: Mix all filling ingredients in a food processor or blender to speed up the process.

Batch roasting: Roast multiple pumpkin halves at once and freeze the extra for future use.

Quick cooling: Place roasted pumpkin halves in the fridge to cool faster before mashing.

Substitute Ingredients For Great Pumpkin Pie Recipe

small sugar pumpkin - Substitute with canned pumpkin puree: Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and provides a similar texture and flavor without the need for roasting and pureeing a fresh pumpkin.
white sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor that complements the spices in the pie.
amber rum - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice provides a similar sweetness and a hint of fruitiness without the alcohol content.
egg yolk - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace the egg yolk, making the recipe vegan-friendly.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with individual spices: Use a combination of ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ginger, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves to replicate the pumpkin pie spice blend.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar richness and helps keep the pie dairy-free.
dark molasses - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar depth of flavor and sweetness, with a slightly different but complementary taste.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract gives a different but pleasant nutty flavor that pairs well with the spices in the pie.
frozen deep-dish prepared pie crust - Substitute with homemade pie crust: Making a pie crust from scratch allows for control over ingredients and can enhance the overall flavor and texture of the pie.

Best Way to Present This Delightful Pumpkin Pie

Roast the pumpkin perfectly: Ensure the pumpkin is roasted until tender and caramelized, enhancing its natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Create a smooth pumpkin puree: Use an immersion blender to achieve a velvety texture, ensuring the pumpkin puree is free of lumps and perfectly smooth.
Balance the sweetness: Carefully measure and mix white sugar, dark molasses, and amber rum to create a harmonious blend of sweetness and richness.
Incorporate pumpkin pie spice: Add the pumpkin pie spice to the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed for a consistent flavor profile throughout the pie.
Use a quality pie crust: Opt for a high-quality, frozen deep-dish prepared pie crust to provide a sturdy and flavorful base for the pie.
Bake to perfection: Monitor the baking process closely, ensuring the pumpkin pie is baked until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully set.
Cool and set: Allow the pumpkin pie to cool completely before slicing, ensuring clean cuts and a firm texture.
Garnish elegantly: Top the pumpkin pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for an elegant finish.
Serve with finesse: Present the pumpkin pie on a pristine white plate, with a drizzle of dark molasses around the edge for a touch of sophistication.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Pumpkin Pie

Oven: Used to roast the pumpkin and bake the pie.
Baking sheet: Holds the pumpkin halves while they roast in the oven.
Potato masher: Mashes the roasted pumpkin flesh.
Large mixing bowl: Holds the mashed pumpkin and other ingredients for mixing.
Immersion blender: Purees the pumpkin mixture until smooth and thick.
Electric hand mixer: An alternative to the immersion blender for pureeing the pumpkin mixture.
Measuring cups: Measures the sugar, rum, and mashed pumpkin.
Measuring spoons: Measures the pumpkin pie spice, molasses, and vanilla extract.
Toothpick: Checks the doneness of the pie by inserting it into the center.
Pie crust: The base that holds the pumpkin filling.
Spatula: Helps to transfer the pumpkin puree into the pie crust.

How To Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie

Let the pumpkin pie cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This usually takes about 2-3 hours.
To store the pie in the refrigerator, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. Label the pie with the date and place it in the freezer. Pumpkin pie can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To thaw a frozen pie, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Do not thaw the pie at room temperature, as this can cause the crust to become soggy.
If you prefer to serve the pie warm, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving and reheat it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
For optimal taste and texture, consume the pumpkin pie within 1-2 days of thawing.

How To Reheat Pumpkin Pie Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pumpkin pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie is heated through. This method helps to maintain the crispy texture of the pie crust while ensuring the filling is evenly warmed.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Cut the desired portion of pumpkin pie and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, or until the pie is warm to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the filling to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover pumpkin pie. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie slice in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps to restore the crispiness of the pie crust.
For a stovetop method, place a slice of pumpkin pie in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the pie is warmed through. This method helps to crisp up the bottom of the pie crust while gently warming the filling.
If you prefer a cold pumpkin pie, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly, making for a delicious and refreshing treat.

Random Fact about Pumpkin Pie

A small sugar pumpkin is often preferred for pumpkin pie recipes because it has a sweeter and less watery flesh compared to larger carving pumpkins.

Is Making Pumpkin Pie at Home Economical?

This pumpkin pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using a small sugar pumpkin and a frozen deep-dish prepared pie crust keeps costs low. The additional ingredients like white sugar, amber rum, and dark molasses are used in small quantities, making them affordable. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $10-$12 USD for a household of 4 people.

Is Pumpkin Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pumpkin pie recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content: The recipe calls for 1 cup of white sugar and 1½ tbsp of dark molasses, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potential health issues like obesity and diabetes.
Saturated fat: The use of butter and a frozen deep-dish pie crust adds saturated fat to the recipe, which can increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
Lack of nutritional diversity: Although pumpkin is a nutrient-dense ingredient, the recipe does not include a variety of other healthy ingredients like whole grains, lean proteins, or additional fruits and vegetables.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar by half and replace the white sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey, which offer some additional nutrients.
Replace the butter with a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or olive oil.
Opt for a whole wheat pie crust or make a crust from scratch using whole grain flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
Incorporate additional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, which can enhance the flavor while providing some health benefits.
Serve the pie with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream to add protein and reduce the overall calorie and fat content of the dessert.

Editor's Thoughts on This Pumpkin Pie Recipe

This pumpkin pie recipe is a delightful twist on the classic, incorporating amber rum and dark molasses for depth and complexity. Roasting the sugar pumpkin enhances its natural sweetness, while the blend of spices adds warmth. The use of an immersion blender ensures a smooth, velvety filling. However, consider adding a whole egg instead of just the yolk for a richer texture. The frozen pie crust is convenient, but a homemade crust could elevate the dish further. Overall, it's a well-balanced and flavorful dessert perfect for autumn gatherings.

Enhance Your Great Pumpkin Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of brussels sprouts paired with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts complements the sweet and spiced notes of the pumpkin pie, creating a harmonious balance on your palate.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Picture tender carrots bathed in a luscious maple syrup glaze. The natural sweetness of the carrots, enhanced by the maple, provides a delightful contrast to the rich, spiced flavors of the pumpkin pie. It's a match made in autumn heaven.

Cranberry Orange Relish: Envision a zesty cranberry and orange relish that bursts with vibrant flavors. The tartness of the cranberries and the citrusy zing of the orange offer a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy, spiced pumpkin pie, making each bite a delightful experience.

Savory Herb Stuffing: Think of a warm, aromatic stuffing infused with herbs like sage and thyme. The savory, earthy flavors of the stuffing provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet and spiced pumpkin pie, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Spiced Apple Cider: Imagine sipping on a hot, fragrant apple cider spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The warm, comforting flavors of the cider enhance the autumnal essence of the pumpkin pie, making it a perfect pairing for a cozy fall gathering.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Imagine the aroma of pumpkin spice filling your kitchen as you bake these delightful muffins. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack, these muffins are moist, flavorful, and topped with a crumbly streusel.

Maple Pecan Pumpkin Bread: This pumpkin bread is elevated with the rich flavors of maple syrup and crunchy pecans. It's a perfect autumn treat that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: Combining the creamy texture of cheesecake with the spiced goodness of pumpkin pie, these bars are a decadent dessert that will impress any guest. A graham cracker crust adds the perfect crunch.

Spiced Pumpkin Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this velvety pumpkin soup, infused with aromatic spices and a hint of coconut milk. It's a comforting and savory dish that's perfect for chilly evenings.

Pumpkin Spice Latte: Skip the coffee shop and make your own pumpkin spice latte at home. This cozy beverage combines espresso, pumpkin puree, and warm spices for a delightful fall drink.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Pumpkin Pie

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. A touch of Parmesan adds a delightful umami kick, while a sprinkle of breadcrumbs provides a satisfying crunch. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Freshly toasted baguette slices serve as the perfect canvas for a vibrant topping of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar elevate the flavors, making each bite a harmonious blend of freshness and zest. This appetizer is a timeless crowd-pleaser, ideal for any occasion.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, offering a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrusy marinade. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, seasoned with onions, garlic, and spices. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is a hearty and satisfying option for any dinner table. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Why trust this Great Pumpkin Pie Recipe:

This recipe uses a small sugar pumpkin for a fresh, authentic flavor that canned pumpkin can't match. The addition of amber rum and dark molasses adds depth and richness, making this pie stand out. With a blend of pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract, it captures the essence of fall. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, and the use of a frozen deep-dish prepared pie crust saves time without compromising on taste. Trust this recipe for a delicious, homemade pumpkin pie that will impress your guests.

Want to share your own pumpkin pie recipe or discuss baking tips? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's talk about this Great Pumpkin Pie Recipe!

FAQ:

How do I know when the pumpkin is tender enough after roasting?

You can tell the pumpkin is tender when you can easily pierce it with a fork. It should be soft and not offer much resistance.

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin?

Yes, you can use canned pumpkin if you're short on time. Just make sure to use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling. You'll need about 2 cups of canned pumpkin.

Do I need to blind bake the pie crust before adding the filling?

No, you don't need to blind bake the pie crust for this recipe. The filling cooks perfectly in the unbaked crust.

Can I substitute the amber rum with something else?

If you prefer not to use rum, you can substitute it with an equal amount of apple juice or even water. It will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.

How should I store the leftover pumpkin pie?

Store any leftover pumpkin pie in the refrigerator. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It should last for about 3-4 days.