Pumpkin Cream Pie
A creamy, spiced pumpkin pie topped with fluffy meringue, blending warm cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Perfect for fall celebrations or holiday gatherings, this dessert offers a delightful combination of smooth pumpkin filling and sweet, airy topping that appeals to both traditional and modern palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
- Stir in milk, pumpkin, and pecans until well combined.
- Cook in a double boiler for 20 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add beaten egg yolks and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Cool the mixture and pour into the baked pie shell.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gradually add 1/2 cup sugar to the egg whites and beat until glossy.
- Spread the meringue over the cooled pie filling.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until golden brown on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Make sure to stir the filling continuously to prevent sticking while cooking in the double boiler. For an even creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to the filling mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pumpkin Cream Pie with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added decadence. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee. For a festive touch, garnish with additional pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon. This pie makes a great dessert alongside a hearty meal, such as a roast or savory vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It should stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, place individual slices in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pumpkin Cream Pie contains roughly 637 calories, with 7g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 996mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and bake the pie shell a day in advance. Just add the meringue topping on the day you plan to serve it to ensure it stays fluffy and fresh. Store the pie in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).