Classic Pumpkin Pie

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time
15 min	50 min	1 h 5 min

Introduction

This classic pumpkin pie is creamy, cozy, and perfectly spiced, with a flaky crust that tastes like pure holiday comfort.

Using a pre-made crust and canned pumpkin keeps things easy, so you can get dessert in the oven fast.

It is perfect for Thanksgiving, fall potlucks, or any chilly night when you want a simple, crowd-pleasing treat.

Prep mode (keeps screen active)

Prepare the pie crust

Preheat your oven to 425°F and place a rack in the center.
Unroll the refrigerated pie crust and gently fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
Fold or crimp the edges as desired, then place the crust in the fridge.
Mix the pumpkin filling

In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree and sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs and whisk until fully combined and slightly thickened.
Whisk in the evaporated milk, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla.
Tap the bowl on the counter to release any big air bubbles.

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Fill the crust and start baking

Pour the pumpkin filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes to set the edges.
Reduce the heat and finish baking

Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F without opening the door.
Continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes, until the center looks mostly set.
The pie is done when a knife near the center comes out mostly clean.
Cool and chill the pie

Transfer the pie to a wire rack and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Chill the cooled pie in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing.

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Slice and serve

For neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Serve the pie chilled or at cool room temperature with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.

Evaporated milk -> half-and-half or heavy cream: Use 1/2 cup half-and-half or heavy cream instead of evaporated milk; the pie tastes richer and slightly more custardy.
Granulated sugar -> light brown sugar: Light brown sugar adds a deeper caramel note and a bit more moisture, making the filling taste cozy and complex.
Pumpkin puree -> mashed cooked sweet potato: Use the same amount of smooth mashed sweet potato for a fun twist; the pie turns slightly denser and very creamy.

Keep the crust crisp: Bake the pie on a preheated metal baking sheet; the extra heat helps firm the bottom crust and prevents sogginess.
Check doneness by the jiggle: The center should jiggle like Jell-O, not slosh; it will finish setting as the pie cools.
Prevent surface cracks: Avoid overbaking, which causes big surface cracks and a dry texture. Take the pie out as soon as the center mostly sets and the edges puff slightly.
Use chill time to your advantage: Pumpkin pie tastes even better the next day, so bake it a day ahead when possible.
Slice at the right temperature: If the pie is very cold, let it sit 10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Why is my pumpkin pie filling still runny after baking?: The filling is likely underbaked, so it never reached a high enough temperature to set the custard. Bake longer at 350°F, checking every 5 minutes, until only a small center circle still jiggles. Then cool the pie completely before cutting, which lets the structure firm up.
How can I keep my pie crust from shrinking?: Let the crust rest in the pie plate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before filling. Avoid stretching the dough into the pan, and press it gently so it just fits.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?: Yes, but make sure the pumpkin puree is well drained and very smooth before using. Roast the pumpkin, mash it, then press it through a sieve or food mill for the best texture.
Can I make this pie without pumpkin pie spice?: You can replace pumpkin pie spice with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon each nutmeg and ginger. Taste the filling and add a pinch of cloves if you like a stronger spice flavor.
Can I make this pumpkin pie dairy free?: Yes, you can use full-fat canned coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. Choose a dairy-free crust or press in a nut crust if you need the whole pie dairy free.