Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie Recipe From Scratch

Why You’ll Love this Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie

When autumn rolls around, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a slice of homemade pumpkin pie. This classic recipe is the perfect balance of warm spices and creamy pumpkin that’ll make your kitchen smell like a fall wonderland. Trust me, your family will beg for seconds.

What makes this pie special? It’s the perfect texture—not too dense, not too jiggly—and those aromatic spices that warm you from the inside out. The simple ingredients come together to create something truly magical. Plus, it’s easier than you might think. Even if you’re new to baking, you can nail this iconic dessert on your first try.

What Ingredients are in Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie?

The best pumpkin pie starts with quality ingredients that create that perfectly balanced flavor we all crave when fall arrives. This classic recipe uses simple pantry staples that come together to create that unmistakable taste that makes everyone feel like they’re sitting at grandma’s Thanksgiving table. The combination of warm spices with creamy pumpkin creates a dessert that’s both nostalgic and absolutely irresistible.

Pastry dough for a 9-inch pie crust
2 eggs
16 ounces pumpkin puree (or 2 cups cooked pumpkin)
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 2/3 cups evaporated milk

When shopping for ingredients, try to find pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which already contains spices and sugar. This way, you can control exactly how sweet and spicy your pie becomes. And while store-bought pastry dough works perfectly well, making your own crust can take this pie to the next level if you’re feeling ambitious. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—these basic ingredients transform into something truly special when baked to perfection.

How to Make this Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie

Making this pie is surprisingly straightforward, even for those who don’t consider themselves baking experts. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F—this initial high temperature helps set the crust properly before we lower it to finish cooking the filling.

While the oven heats up, prepare your pastry dough and line a 9-inch pie plate, gently pressing it into the corners and crimping the edges for that picture-perfect finish.

For the filling, grab a mixing bowl and slightly beat 2 eggs with a hand beater (or whisk if that’s what you have). This is where the magic happens—beat in 16 ounces of pumpkin puree, 3/4 cup sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and those wonderful warming spices: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves.

Once everything is well combined, gradually incorporate 1 2/3 cups evaporated milk until you have a smooth, silky mixture. See how the filling has that gorgeous amber color? That’s exactly what we’re looking for.

Now comes the slightly tricky part—place your pastry-lined pie plate on the oven rack first, then pour in the filling. This prevents spills that might occur if you try carrying a filled, unbaked pie across the kitchen.

Bake at that high temperature for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F and continue baking until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean—about 45 minutes longer for a 9-inch pie. The filling might still look slightly jiggly in the center, but it will firm up as it cools.

Let the pie cool completely before slicing, and don’t forget a dollop of whipped cream on top for serving. The contrast between the cool cream and spiced filling? Absolutely divine.

Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie Substitutions and Variations

Several wonderful substitutions and variations can transform this classic pumpkin pie recipe to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences.

For a dairy-free version, I recommend coconut milk instead of evaporated milk – it adds a subtle tropical note that’s quite lovely.

Can’t do eggs? Try using 1/4 cup of cornstarch as a binder instead.

Play with the spices, too! A dash of cardamom or nutmeg brings warmth, while black pepper adds surprising depth.

For a boozy twist, stir in 2 tablespoons of bourbon or rum.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, swap in butternut squash for the pumpkin – most people won’t even notice the difference.

What to Serve with Classic Homemade Pumpkin Pie

When serving my classic homemade pumpkin pie, I always consider complementary flavors that enhance its warm spices and creamy texture. Whipped cream is non-negotiable, honestly—fresh and lightly sweetened with a hint of vanilla. A dollop, or maybe two?

For a more indulgent touch, try salted caramel sauce drizzled on top, or maple-infused whipped cream instead of plain.

Coffee makes a perfect beverage pairing, cutting through the sweetness with its bitter notes. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns this dessert into a proper à la mode situation.

And for special occasions? A splash of bourbon in your coffee, because why not?