Mini Pumpkin Pies: The Perfect Sweet Treat for Busy Fall Days
Ah, fall! The season of cozy sweaters, colorful leaves, and—let’s be honest—delicious pumpkin-flavored everything! If you’re anything like me, once those PSLs (Pumpkin Spice Lattes) make their grand return, it’s a sweet, spiraling dive into all things pumpkin. That’s where these Mini Pumpkin Pies come into play. They’re not just adorable; they’re the perfect solution for impressing your friends and family without spending half the day in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or needing a sweet treat for your kid’s school event, these little gems are sure to bring smiles all around!
Why You’ll Love These Mini Pumpkin Pies
These Mini Pumpkin Pies are everything you’ve been waiting for. They’re quick to assemble, super cute, and most importantly—delicious! Made with a creamy filling infused with pumpkin spices, you’ll be amazed at how something so tiny can pack a flavor punch. Plus, they are an effortless way to add a bit of fancy to any dessert table without the stress.
So, grab your apron (or your favorite comfy shirt), and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful mini pumpkin pies:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought is just fine, no judgment here!)
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling – we want the pure stuff!)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Recipe Steps
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will give your pies a warm home to bake in.
Prepare the Crusts: Roll out your pre-made pie crust and use a cookie cutter or a small bowl to cut out mini circles. You’ll want them to be about 3 inches in diameter. Gently press these into a mini muffin tin. (Yes, that muffin tin we rarely use will finally come in handy!)
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir in the heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is blended well. This mix should smell like a cozy autumn morning!
Fill the Crusts: Carefully pour the pumpkin filling into each mini crust, filling each one about ¾ full. Don’t worry if they spill a bit; you’re just adding to their charm.
Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling sets. You’ll know they’re done when the center has a slight jiggle but isn’t liquid. Trust me, it takes all of your willpower not to dive in at this moment!
Cool and Serve: Let the mini pies cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re cooled, feel free to top them with a dollop of whipped cream. Because, you know, no one should ever say no to more cream!
Cooking Tips
- Avoid an overflow: Pouring too much filling can lead to messy mini pies. Keep it to about ¾ full, and you’ll be golden—trust me, I’ve made that mistake once too often!
- Spice it up: If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add a dash of allspice or cloves for a deeper flavor.
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and just whip it out when you’re ready to bake. It’ll save you precious time (and sanity) the day of your gathering!
A Little Backstory
Let me tell you—a few years back, I attempted to make a full-sized pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving, and let’s just say it did not end well. Fast-forward to the present, and my kids are obsessed with these mini versions that we’ve whipped up just in time for the holidays. They’re the perfect size for little hands (or big hands that want to nibble on multiple pies!), and every time someone takes a bite, it’s like watching their faces light up with pure joy. Trust me; you’ll have the same experience!
FAQs About Mini Pumpkin Pies
Can I substitute pumpkin puree? Yes! If you’re ever in a bind, you can use butternut squash puree or sweet potato. Just ensure it’s pureed and unsweetened.
How can I store leftovers? If you have any left (which you probably won’t!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just note that the crust may soften a bit.
Can I make these ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day in advance, keep them in the fridge, and then bake them just before serving for that fresh-baked aroma.
So, why not step into fall with these delightful Mini Pumpkin Pies? They’re not only perfect for family gatherings, but they offer a sense of nostalgia while being simple enough for any busy mom or working professional. Enjoy the cozy season, and remember: the most delicious memories are made around the table!
In case you’re interested in more cozy and delicious recipes, check out my Simple Apple Crisp or Autumn Vegetable Soup for wholesome fall dishes that will warm your heart and home!
Meta Description: Mini Pumpkin Pies are the perfect recipe for busy fall days. Quick, easy, and delicious, these mini treats will certainly impress!
Enjoy the baking, and may your kitchen smell like heaven this fall!
Mini Pumpkin Pies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out your pre-made pie crust and cut out mini circles about 3 inches in diameter. Gently press them into a mini muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir in the heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Carefully pour the pumpkin filling into each mini crust, filling each one about ¾ full.
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling sets.
- Let the mini pies cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
