A Delicious and Easy Guide to Traditional Holiday Baking in Just 75 Minutes!
There’s something magical about the smell of a freshly baked pumpkin pie wafting through your home. It’s the quintessential holiday dessert, bringing families together over its rich, creamy texture and warm spices. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning to explore the joys of homemade treats, this recipe is your perfect guide to crafting a classic pumpkin pie with ease and fun.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the joy it brings to the whole family. It’s a chance to create delicious memories together without spending hours in the kitchen. Let the kids get involved measuring ingredients, mixing the filling, and maybe even sneaking a taste before it’s baked. With just 75 minutes from start to finish, this pie is the ideal addition to your holiday table and a wonderful way to share family traditions.
So, tie on your apron, grab the rolling pin, and get ready to bake a pumpkin pie that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this classic holiday dessert. Don’t forget to involve the kids they’ll love helping you gather everything!
For the Pie Crust
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for a GF option)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and diced; substitute plant-based butter for a dairy-free option)
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
For the Pumpkin Filling
- 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free alternative)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream (or coconut whipped cream for dairy-free)
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, diced butter. Using a pastry cutter (or your fingers), blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. It should feel slightly sticky but not wet.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Interactive Tip: Let the kids press the dough into shape with their hands. They’ll love feeling like mini chefs!
Step 2: Make the Filling
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Interactive Tip: Let the kids help whisk the filling it’s the perfect job for little hands!
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently into place. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
3. Pour the filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
Interactive Tip: Let the kids decorate the edges of the crust with small cutouts using cookie cutters for a personal touch.
Step 4: Bake
1. Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.
Estimated Cooking & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
This quick timeline ensures that you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the holiday festivities with your loved ones!
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin A: 120% of the daily recommended intake
- Calcium: 8%
Pumpkin pie is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like Vitamin A, which supports eye health a great excuse to have that second slice!
Congratulations! You’ve just created a classic pumpkin pie that’s sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream and a mug of hot cider for the ultimate holiday treat. Leftovers? Store them in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.
Baking with kids isn’t just about making food it’s about creating traditions, sparking joy, and sharing special moments. We’d love to hear about your pumpkin pie adventures! Did you try a fun twist or add your own creative toppings? Share your story in the comments below.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to subscribe for more family-friendly cooking ideas. Follow us on social media for daily inspiration, and share this recipe with fellow parents looking for a simple and delicious holiday treat. Cooking with my boys always brings laughter and love to our kitchen here’s hoping it does the same for yours!
