Why Make This Recipe
Mini pumpkin pies are the perfect bite-sized treat for any fall gathering or holiday celebration. These little delights pack all the warm flavors of traditional pumpkin pie into a cute, single-serving size. Plus, they are simple to make and satisfy any pumpkin craving.
With a buttery crust and a spiced pumpkin filling, these mini pies bring comfort in every bite. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare, making them ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned bakers alike.
Equipment Needed for Mini Pumpkin Pies
Before diving into the preparation, gather the necessary equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience. You will need:
- A muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter or glass
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
With everything ready, you can focus on creating these delightful mini pumpkin pies with minimal distractions.
What You Need to Make Mini Pumpkin Pies
- 1 container Refrigerated pie crust dough (dairy free if necessary)
- 1/3 cup coconut sugar (can sub cane or brown sugar)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1.5 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 can (15oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 tbsp oat milk (or any other milk alternative)
- 2 large eggs (may sub 1/4 cup almond butter)
- Dairy free whipped cream (for serving)
How to Cook Mini Pumpkin Pies Step by Step
To get started, preheat your oven to 400°F. While that heats up, remove the pie crust from the fridge. Allow the pie crust to rest on the counter for about 15 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the filling ingredients except for the whipped cream. This includes the coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, salt, pumpkin puree, oat milk, and eggs. Use a whisk to combine them thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and set it aside for later.
Next, roll out the pie dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Using a 2.5 to 3-inch cookie cutter or the top of a glass, cut out the base for your mini pies. Carefully place the pie crust circles into the muffin tins, gently pressing them to fit the edges. This forms the perfect shell for your filling.
Now, it’s time to fill each crust with the pumpkin mixture. Add about 2 tablespoons of the pie filling into each crust, being careful not to overfill as this can cause them to spill over while baking. Once they are all filled, slide the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for around 20 minutes.
Once baking is complete, let the mini pies cool in the muffin tins for about 30 minutes. This cooling period will help them set and make them easier to handle. After cooling, transfer the mini pumpkin pies to a cooling rack to allow them to cool completely.
Before serving, top each mini pie with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top. This final step adds both flavor and a lovely presentation to your delicious treats.
How to Make Mini Pumpkin Pies
Making mini pumpkin pies takes a few steps, but it’s quite straightforward. Start by preparing your ingredients and equipment. Preheat the oven, roll out the crust, and mix your filling in one bowl.
Once you prepare the dough and filling, simply place the dough in muffin tins and fill them. Then, bake to golden perfection. After they cool, add the whipped cream, and they are ready to serve.
This process allows you to enjoy the comforting flavors of pumpkin in a fun, portable way that everyone will love.
How to Serve Mini Pumpkin Pies
Serving these mini pumpkin pies is as easy as placing them on a platter and letting your guests dig in. They make a great addition to any dessert table, especially during fall festivities like Thanksgiving or Halloween.
For a cozy touch, consider serving these pies with warm apple cider or a cup of spiced hot chocolate. The warm drinks complement the pies beautifully and enhance the overall experience.
If you want to elevate your presentation, you could arrange the mini pumpkin pies on a decorative plate. This adds a festive touch, which is great for gatherings.
What to Serve with Mini Pumpkin Pies
Mini pumpkin pies pair wonderfully with various beverages and side dishes. Consider serving them alongside:
- Apple cider
- Coffee or espresso
- Vanilla ice cream
- Hot chocolate
- Spiced chai tea
Each of these options complements the rich flavors of pumpkin and adds to the cozy atmosphere of your gathering.
How to Store Mini Pumpkin Pies
To store mini pumpkin pies, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days, but if you want to keep them fresh for longer, refrigerate them.
Refrigeration extends their shelf life to about one week. If you need to, you can also freeze them. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then placed in an airtight container.
When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and warm them in the oven if you like them warm.
Tips to Make Mini Pumpkin Pies
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your mini pumpkin pies turn out perfectly every time:
- If the pie crust comes out too thick, you can roll it thinner for a flakier crust.
- Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending and texture.
- Avoid overfilling the pie crusts to prevent spilling during baking.
- Use a whisk to mix the filling thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
By following these tips, your mini pies will have the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. For instance, you can try using different sweeteners, like maple syrup or honey.
If you prefer nut-free options, almond butter can be replaced with more pumpkin puree. You can also experiment with flavors by adding chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
Best Time to Make Mini Pumpkin Pies
Mini pumpkin pies are best made during the fall season when pumpkins are fresh and plentiful. However, they are also great for holiday parties, potlucks, and family gatherings throughout the year.
These pies can be made ahead of time and stored, making them a convenient option for busy occasions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making mini pumpkin pies is easy, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of:
- Not properly cooling the pies before moving them can lead to messy mini pies.
- Overbaking can cause dryness; keep an eye on them during the final few minutes.
- Using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin can change the flavor and texture.
By paying attention to these details, you can ensure your mini pumpkin pies are a hit.
Nutritional Notes
Mini pumpkin pies can be quite nutritious! Pumpkins are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a great source of vitamins A and C, which can promote good vision and boost the immune system.
Using alternative sweeteners and dairy-free options can also make them healthier for various dietary needs. Just remember to enjoy them in moderation!
FAQs
Can I make these mini pumpkin pies in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and bake the mini pumpkin pies ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before adding it to your filling.
How do I make the crust from scratch?
You can make pie crust from scratch using flour, butter, and cold water. Combine the ingredients until crumbly, then form a dough and chill before using.
Conclusion
Mini pumpkin pies are an enjoyable and easy treat that brings the flavors of fall to your table. They are perfect for any celebration or simple gatherings with family and friends.
With a flaky crust, spiced filling, and delicious whipped cream topping, these miniature desserts will surely impress everyone. Get started today and savor the joy of baking these delightful little pies!
