From Scratch: Homemade Pumpkin Pie

There’s just something about making a classic dessert like pumpkin pie from scratch that makes it feel even more special.

It’s become my favorite Thanksgiving tradition to bake one every year, right alongside the chaos of prepping the rest of the meal.

The combination of spices, the creamy filling, and that perfectly golden crust always feels like the ultimate reward for all the effort.

I love knowing it’s the dessert everyone will look forward to after dinner!

From scratch pumpkin pie has a way of stealing the show among Thanksgiving-themed desserts, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

It’s the kind of dessert that feels like home and makes the holiday table complete.

Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Pumpkin pie is a holiday classic for a reason.

Its smooth, spiced filling paired with a flaky crust is comfort food at its finest, and it has a way of bringing everyone to the table with a smile.

The best pumpkin pie recipe is all about balance—the perfect mix of warm spices, creamy texture, and just the right amount of sweetness.

This recipe has been my go-to for years, and it never fails to deliver that perfect slice that says, “Happy Thanksgiving!”

What You Need to Make the Best Pumpkin Pie

Making pumpkin pie is simple when you have the right ingredients and tools on hand.

It’s all about bringing together pantry staples and a few seasonal favorites for a dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

• Pie crust: The base of any great pumpkin pie; choose homemade or store-bought.
• Pumpkin puree: Provides the rich, creamy filling with that classic pumpkin flavor.
• Eggs: Help bind the filling and give it structure.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and a silky texture to the pie.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling for a perfectly balanced flavor.
• Brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses for depth.
• Cinnamon: The star spice for that warm, holiday flavor.
• Nutmeg: Enhances the sweetness with a slightly nutty aroma.
• Cloves: Brings a bold spice that complements the pumpkin.
• Ginger: Adds a touch of zest to the filling.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the spices.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a smooth, sweet finish.

With these ingredients and tools ready to go, you’ll be set to bake a pie that everyone will rave about!

How to Make From Scratch Pumpkin Pie

Preheat the Oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.

Roll Out the Crust: Flatten your pie crust and fit it into a pie dish, crimping the edges for style.

Mix the Filling: Combine pumpkin puree, eggs, heavy cream, sugars, spices, salt, and vanilla in a mixing bowl.

Pour the Filling: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared crust.

Bake the Pie: Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes until the center jiggles slightly but is mostly set.

Cool the Pie: Let it cool completely on a wire rack for the best slicing and texture.

Pumpkin Pie From Scratch Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
• 1 ¾ cups pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, heavy cream, and sugars until smooth.
4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, salt, and vanilla, and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness by gently shaking the pie (the center should jiggle slightly).
7. Cool the pie on a wire rack before serving.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie with Real Pumpkin

Using fresh pumpkin adds an extra layer of flavor and richness to your pie.

If you’ve never made pumpkin puree from scratch, it’s easier than you might think!

• Pick the Perfect Pumpkin: Pick a sugar pumpkin for the best flavor and texture.
• Preheat the Oven: Heat to 400°F (200°C) to roast the pumpkin.
• Prep the Pumpkin: Halve the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and strings.
• Roast the Pumpkin: Place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes until tender.
• Cool the Pumpkin: Let it sit until cool enough to handle.
• Scoop the Flesh: Remove the roasted flesh with a spoon.
• Puree the Flesh: Blend in a food processor until smooth and ready for use.

Making your pumpkin puree is a fun way to add a personal touch to your pie.

Fresh pumpkin has a lighter, sweeter flavor than canned, and it’s a great way to make your pie feel even more homemade.

Whether you use canned or fresh, the key to a perfect pie is all in the love you put into it!

The Perfect Pumpkin Pie Awaits

There’s nothing quite like serving a homemade pumpkin pie that you’ve crafted from start to finish.

Whether you stick to a classic recipe or go the extra mile with fresh pumpkin, this dessert is the heart of any Thanksgiving table.

So grab your fork, slice into that golden pie, and savor the sweetness of your efforts!

For more pumpkin dessert ideas, I have pumpkin bread recipes, pumpkin cookies and pumpkin muffins for you to try!