Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (2024)

This EASY PUMPKIN PIE RECIPE is a holiday classic! A family favorite for four generations, this easy pumpkin pie is my go to recipe for Thanksgiving dessert. You only need one bowl, and the only measuring you’ll need to do is with a teaspoon, it’s seriously the easiest pumpkin pie ever!

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (1)

If you’ve ever made a pumpkin pie from scratch, you’re in for a treat. This truly is one of the easiest Thanksgiving pie recipes you can make!

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (2)

Our family loves pumpkin recipes, and this is what we consider to be the best pumpkin pie recipe.

Libbys Pumpkin Pie Recipe

This recipe is adapted from the famous Libbys Pumpkin Pie Recipe. And because I like to keep it simple, this pumpkin pie filling can be made quickly using just one bowl. Less dishes during the holiday season is always a good thing!

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (3)

Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Pie was one of the first “real foods” each of my daughters ever tasted, mainly because my family was sneaking it to them when I was busy cleaning up Thanksgiving dinners.

There is something so simple, yet so delicious, about pumpkin pie. For many years, my husband and I have hosted Thanksgiving dinner for our family and friends.That means a lot of prep, a lot of shopping , a lot of cooking, a lot of people and, to keep it real, a lot of stress.

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Easy Pumpkin Pie

Because of this I am always looking for ways to simplify things, make things easier, and save some time. My pumpkin pie is one of the things that I’ve found a way to simplify.

Pie Crust

Moment of truth… for my pumpkin pies I use the pre-made pie crusts. The ones that come rolled up in a box in the fridge section of the grocery store. Yep, these pie shells aren’t from scratch.

And without fail, every year someone compliments me on my pie crusts.I used to start explaining, now I’m at the point where I just thank them. I mean I did buy them myself, unroll them and fill them with pie filling, that counts for something, right?

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (5)

Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crusts are my favorite. I think I’ve tried every different refrigerated pie crust available, but so far nothing has beat the Pillsbury pie crusts in the red box.

Pumpkin Pie Filling

I’ve also simplified the pie filling recipe we use, which is a spin on the Libby’s classic pumpkin pie recipe.My mom always made the famous Libby’s Pumpkin Pie recipe with evaporated milk when I was growing up.

However instead of using the two cans of evaporated milk that the recipe calls for, she would replace one can with sweetened condensed milk.

The sugar called for in the traditional recipe is left out all together.We find that the sweetened condensed milk really creates a superior texture in our pumpkin pies.

Have I mentioned that not only is it quick and easy, it’s pretty much fool-proof as well.

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (6)

Fresh Pumpkin Vs. Canned Pumpkin

People often ask if fresh pumpkin can be used in place of canned pumpkin puree. For the most part, fresh pumpkin and canned pumpkin are not quite the same thing.

Using Canned Pumpkin For Pie

Canned pumpkin is created specifically for use in recipes. Libby’s uses a special variety of pumpkin called Dickinson Pumpkin. Some say that it walks the line between being a pumpkin and a squash.Canned pumpkin tends to be fairly consistent in it’s texture, making it a great choice for baking.

Using Fresh Pumpkin For Pie

If you would like to use fresh pumpkin, make sure you are using a sugar pumpkin. Sugar pumpkins have more flavor, and are denser and drier than other pumpkin varieties.Your typical Jack-O-Lantern pumpkins are not the ones you want to be baking with.

When using fresh pumpkin, make sure you leave enough time to make your homemade pumpkin puree. This typically takes around three hours, though will vary based on pumpkin size.

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Deciding Which To Use

I’ve tried using fresh pumpkin for pies before, and it’s good, but I find that it can be really inconsistent. I’m all for experimenting and trying new things, just not for big events like Thanksgiving dinner.At times like that, I stick with what is tried and true. And my pumpkin pies are no exception.

If you usually use canned pumpkin puree, and want to try using fresh pumpkin instead, I’d suggest baking a practice pie in advance.This gives you a chance to master making the pumpkin puree, and also allows you to decide if the difference in flavor is right for you.

Pumpkin Pie Tips:

For an easy, no fail, pumpkin pie recipe, this truly is my go to recipe.

Big Flavor

*If you like robust flavor, consider kicking up the spices, even putting in probably double what the recipe calls for.I like my pie spicy. If you feel the same way, feel free to increase the amount of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.

Thick Texture

*Thick thighs? I thought you said THICK PIES.Runny pies are not my thing. So I do not use the entire can of evaporated milk when I make this recipe.

Some people make like a slightly more traditional texture, but a good solid thick pie is my thing.

Pumpkin Check

*Canned pumpkin can vary greatly from brand to brand and even batch to batch.

If your pumpkin does not seem thick coming out of the can (you should have to spoon or scoop it out), I would suggest cutting back slightly on the evaporated milk.

Some years the pumpkin seems much runnier than other years.Organic canned pumpkin is often runnier as well. This is okay, you just want to cut back a touch on the liquids in your recipe.

More Thanksgiving Recipes

Check out these other great recipes for Thanksgiving, as well as my tips for a successful Thanksgiving.

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (8)

Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Poke Cake
Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles
Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Butterscotch Pumpkin Pie
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Pumpkin Streusel Bars
Pumpkin Delight
Pumpkin Brownies
Pumpkin Bread

Pie Recipes

Libby’s Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin Pie With Graham Cracker Crust
Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars
Individual Mini Pumpkin Pies
Pecan Pie Without Corn Syrup
Easy Brownie Pie
No-Bake Eggnog Pie
Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars

Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie

Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes

Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potato Casserole
Crockpot Creamed Corn
Homemade Green Bean Casserole
Glazed Carrots
Macaroni and Cheese

MORETHANKSGIVING RECIPES
MOREPUMPKIN RECIPES

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (9)

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EASY PUMPKIN PIE RECIPE

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (10)

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Author Christi Johnstone

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

A delicious and easy pumpkin pie! This recipe makes two pies, perfect for large crowds or sharing with friends and family. Feel free to cut ingredients in half and make only one pie.

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings 16 servings

Equipment

  • 2 pie pans

Ingredients

  • 2 refrigerated pie crusts
  • 1 29 oz can pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling. I use Libby’s pumpkin)
  • 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 12 oz can evaporated milk (I like a thick pie and only use about 2/3 of the can)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • Optional – 1/2 cup of sugar this is not an overly sweet pumpkin pie, so if you like yours SWEET, add 1/2 cup of sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.

Crust

  • Following directions on pie crust packaging, prepare pie crusts. Set aside to make pumpkin pie filling.

Pie Filling

  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, then add pumpkin, full can sweetened condensed milk and approximately 2/3-3/4 can of the evaporated milk (you can use the entire can, I prefer a more solid pumpkin pie, thus do not use the entire can). Stir well to combine. Add in cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla and salt. If adding sugar, stir in. Stir well to combine.

  • Carefully pour mixture into into pie shells. Place pies in oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425 degrees F, then reduce the temperature to 350 degrees. Bake for an additional 35-45 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center of a pie comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool for two hours. Serve immediately or refrigerate. Store in refrigerator.

Video

Notes

This recipe makes TWO pies. If only one pie is desired, recipe may be halved.

A pie shield (or a DIY one made with foil) will help prevent over browning if needed. I put the pie shield on after about 15 minutes and leave on for the remaining baking time.

Adapted from Libby’s Famous Pumpkin Pie.

Nutrition

Calories: 116kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 41mg | Sodium: 176mg | Potassium: 36mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 69IU | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

Disclaimer

Nutrition information is estimated as a courtesy. If using for medical purposes, please verify information using your own nutritional calculator. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Tried this Recipe? Pin it!Mention @LoveFromTheOven or tag #LFTORecipes!

CLICK TO PIN THIS EASY PUMPKIN PIE RECIPE

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (11)
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (12)

Make sure to follow along on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram for more delicious and easy recipes.

Looking for some other great pie recipes? Here are some that you will love…

Butterscotch Pumpkin Pie

My Favorite Pecan Pie Recipe

10 Perfect Pie Recipes

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (15)

Vanilla Pecan Pie

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (16)

Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie

And don’t miss my pie recipe round up!

Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (18)
Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Is condensed milk or evaporated milk better for pumpkin pie? ›

As the name suggests, sweetened condensed milk makes the pie sweeter and gives it a denser, creamier texture. Evaporated milk, on the other hand, yields a lighter, airier result. Evaporated milk isn't sweetened either, which is why you can't simply swap one thickener for the other.

What can I use instead of evaporated milk for pumpkin pie? ›

While many recipes call for it, you can absolutely make an outstanding pumpkin pie without evaporated milk. If your recipe calls for one can of evaporated milk (as most do), you can substitute 1 ½ cups of cream or half and half, or a combination of the two. You can also use milk (any kind from whole to skim).

What is most pumpkin pie filling made of? ›

Store-bought pumpkin pie mix (sometimes labeled "pumpkin pie filling") is a shortcut for making homemade pumpkin pie. It contains puréed pumpkin plus added spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. It also contains sugar and other chemical additives.

What makes a good pie pumpkin? ›

Sugar Baby Pumpkin

Also known as Sugar Pie pumpkins, these thin-skinned squash are smaller (4-8 lbs.) and have a sweet, dense flesh with a fine-grained, smooth texture. The cooked flesh is a bit drier, which makes a great pie filling.

What happens if I put too much evaporated milk in pumpkin pie? ›

Pies with too much evaporated milk formed blisters on top.

Though the interior of the filling had a great, creamy texture. The flavor was ever-so-slightly muted and had a hint of milkiness to it.

What happens if I use condensed milk instead of evaporated milk? ›

These items are essentially the same with one big difference: no sugar is added to evaporated milk. Sweetened condensed milk also has 60% of the water removed, but contains 40% sugar. Due to the big flavor difference, they cannot be substituted for each other.

Why use evaporated milk in pumpkin pie? ›

Evaporated milk: A can of evaporated milk lends richness and helps thicken the pie filling.

What can I use if I don't have enough evaporated milk? ›

We have 6 different suggestions for evaporated milk substitutions.
  • Regular Milk (whole, 2% or skim) ...
  • Heavy Cream. ...
  • Half-and-Half. ...
  • Powdered Milk. ...
  • Regular Non-Dairy Milk (almond, oat, etc) ...
  • Coconut Milk.
Feb 28, 2023

Is condensed milk the same as evaporated milk? ›

Both are concentrated, shelf-stable milk products that have been heated until at least 60 percent of their water content has evaporated. The main difference between evaporated milk and condensed milk is that evaporated milk is unsweetened while condensed milk is sweetened.

What is the difference between Libby's pumpkin and pumpkin pie filling? ›

While the canned pumpkin puree is just canned pumpkin, the Libby "Canned Pumpkin Pie Filling" also has sugar syrup, natural flavoring, salt and spices.

Is Libby's pure pumpkin the same as pumpkin puree? ›

Pumpkin puree can be labeled as 100% pure pumpkin, pumpkin puree, solid pack pumpkin, or simply "pumpkin." Regardless of what it's called, one thing pumpkin puree won't contain is any sort of seasonings or sugar—it's just cooked and mashed squash.

What causes pumpkin pie filling to crack? ›

Those cracks you see in your pie are the result of overcooked eggs, eggs that have tightened up so much, in an uneven way, that they've created fissures in the filling. Usually you'll notice cracks around the edge of the pie first, which makes sense; the edges cook more quickly than the interior.

Why is my pumpkin pie bland? ›

Now if your pie tends to come out bland, you may not be letting your spices hit their full potential. Joy Wilson of Joy the Baker suggests, "To get the most festive flavor out of the spices in your pumpkin pie, bloom the spices with the pumpkin puree in a small saucepan before incorporating into the filling.

Which canned pumpkin is best for pie? ›

Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin

In this taste test, our Test Kitchen pros found that the biggest name in the pumpkin game does, in fact, make the best canned pumpkin on the market. Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin is a favorite among our culinary crew.

Can you use regular pumpkins for pumpkin pie? ›

Start with the right variety of pumpkins, sugar pumpkins. Large pumpkins that we traditionally think of as jack-o-lanterns aren't ideal for pie as they are very stringy and have a lot of seeds. There really isn't very much “meat” to the larger pumpkins. Sugar pumpkins, also known as pie pumpkins, are sweeter.

Should I use evaporated milk or condensed milk? ›

As Leal explains: "Evaporated milk offers creaminess without sweetness and is suitable for savory dishes and some desserts. On the other hand, sweetened condensed milk is intensely sweet and used in desserts and sweet treats, thanks to its thick, syrupy texture."

Is condensed milk better than evaporated milk? ›

Evaporated milk and condensed milk are both shelf-stable canned milks that are easily found at most grocery stores. The main difference is that condensed milk is very sweet, and evaporated milk is unsweetened.

Can you substitute condensed milk for evaporated milk in pie? ›

Condensed milk is also another substitute for evaporated milk in pumpkin pie recipes. Condensed milk is sweeter and thicker, so you may need to reduce the amount of sugar in your recipe. Keep in mind that the final result will be richer and more decadent.

References

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