why make this recipe
Mini Pumpkin Pies are a perfect treat for any occasion, especially during fall and holiday gatherings. These little desserts pack the classic flavors of pumpkin pie into bite-sized portions that everyone will love.
They are easy to make, delicious, and can satisfy your sweet tooth without much fuss. Plus, they are great for sharing, making them ideal for parties or family gatherings.
equipment needed for Mini Pumpkin Pies
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (or glass)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
What You Need to Make Mini Pumpkin Pies
- 1 container Refrigerated pie crust dough (dairy free if necessary)
- 1/3 cup coconut sugar (can substitute 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 substitute with 1/4 cup almond butter)
- Dairy free whipped cream (for serving)
How to Cook Mini Pumpkin Pies Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 400F. This will ensure it is hot enough to perfectly bake your mini pies. Take the refrigerated pie crust out of the fridge and let it rest on the counter for about 15 minutes. This allows it to soften a little, which will help when you start rolling it out.
While waiting, grab a large bowl and add all the filling ingredients. This includes the pumpkin puree, coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, salt, oat milk, and eggs. Whisk everything together thoroughly until fully combined and smooth. This mixture is what gives your mini pies that classic pumpkin flavor.
Next, lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough using a rolling pin. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch for the dough. Once rolled out, use a 2.5-3 inch cookie cutter or the top of a glass to cut out circles of dough. These will serve as the bases for your mini pies.
Now, take your muffin tin and place the cut-out dough circles gently into each muffin cup. Make sure to press the dough firmly against the edges of the tin so that it molds nicely to create a little pie shell. Once all the dough is in the muffin tin, it’s time to fill them.
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the pumpkin filling into each dough shell. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling may expand while baking. Once filled, carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. The pies should be set and have a nice golden-brown color.
After baking, allow the mini pumpkin pies to cool in the muffin tin for 30 minutes. This cooling period is essential for the pies to firm up a bit. Once cooled, transfer them to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.
To serve, add a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream on top of each mini pumpkin pie and sprinkle a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor.
how to make Mini Pumpkin Pies
Making Mini Pumpkin Pies is straightforward and fun. Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment before you begin. It helps everything go smoothly through the process.
Preheat your oven first; this is an important step that should not be overlooked. The right temperature will ensure that your pies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Then, prepare the pumpkin filling in a bowl. Make sure all your ingredients blend well. This filling is the heart of the pies, so you want to ensure it has the right balance of sweetness and spices.
After creating the filling, work on the pie crust. Rolling it out to the right thickness means the crust will bake well, giving that delicious flaky texture. Use a cookie cutter to form the shapes needed for your muffin tin.
Assembling the pies is simple. Just place your crust in the muffin tins, fill it with the pie mixture, and bake! Keeping an eye on them as they bake is crucial. Once golden brown, remove them to cool.
Finally, don’t forget to serve them with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It adds that finishing touch that makes them even more delightful.
how to serve Mini Pumpkin Pies
Mini Pumpkin Pies are best served at room temperature. After they cool down, you can present them on a beautiful platter. Garnishing each pie with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream elevates the presentation, making them look irresistible.
You can also sprinkle a bit more cinnamon on top or even a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flair. This not only enhances their appearance but adds extra flavor that complements the pumpkin.
These little treats make for a perfect dessert at the end of a meal. They are also excellent for an afternoon snack or a sweet pick-me-up during the fall season.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider placing them at the dessert table alongside fresh fruits or a festive cake for variety. Their small size means they can be enjoyed easily without any fuss.
what to serve with Mini Pumpkin Pies
Mini Pumpkin Pies are delightful on their own but can also be paired with various other treats. A warm cup of spiced chai or apple cider complements the flavors of the pumpkin pies wonderfully.
For a more substantial dessert table, consider serving them alongside a rich chocolate cake or pecan pie. This provides guests with various choices, accommodating different tastes.
If you’re looking for something lighter, fresh fruit salads or a selection of seasonal cheeses make excellent companions. They balance out the sweetness of the mini pies while adding a fresh, crunchy element.
Finally, for coffee lovers, a dark roast coffee or a pumpkin spice latte enhances the fall ambiance, creating a cozy atmosphere for your dessert experience.
how to store Mini Pumpkin Pies
To store Mini Pumpkin Pies, allow them to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
If you have leftover pies, they can be refrigerated for up to five days. Simply place a piece of parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.
For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
When you are ready to enjoy frozen mini pies, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. You can warm them in the oven briefly if you prefer them warm before serving.
tips to make Mini Pumpkin Pies
A few tips can help ensure your Mini Pumpkin Pies turn out fantastic. First, make sure your pie crust is not overworked; this keeps the crust flaky and tender.
When mixing your filling, try not to incorporate too much air. Over-whisking may cause cracks as they bake. Just whisk until combined and smooth.
Be mindful of your baking time. Oven temperatures can vary, so keeping an eye on your pies is vital. You want them set but not overly brown.
If you find your filling too thick, feel free to add a bit more oat milk to achieve your desired consistency. Good filling texture is key to a delightful mini pie.
Finally, remember to have fun and enjoy the process! Baking is all about experimenting and finding what you enjoy the most.
variation
You can customize Mini Pumpkin Pies in many ways. For instance, feel free to experiment with different sweeteners. Maple syrup or honey can offer a unique twist on the traditional flavor.
Adding nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling adds both texture and flavor. Just chop them up finely and blend them in with the other ingredients.
If you’re looking for a chocolatey flavor, try incorporating some cocoa powder into the filling. This will create a delectable chocolate pumpkin pie that’s bound to surprise your guests.
Lastly, you can also add a dash of vanilla extract for a lovely aroma and another layer of richness.
best time to make Mini Pumpkin Pies
Mini Pumpkin Pies are perfect for the fall season, especially around Thanksgiving. The warm spices and flavors of pumpkin invoke the essence of autumn, making them a seasonal favorite.
You can also make them for Halloween parties or even as a sweet treat during cozy gatherings with friends and family.
Another great time for these pies is during harvest festivals or potluck dinners. Their small size makes them easy to transport, and they are sure to impress everyone.
However, don’t feel limited to only autumn – you can delight your taste buds any time of the year! These pies offer a wonderful comfort food vibe that’s enjoyable anytime.
common mistakes to avoid
When making Mini Pumpkin Pies, avoid overworking your dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. Handle it gently and minimally for a flaky texture.
Another common mistake is using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree. Ensure you use the right ingredient for that authentic flavor and proper texture.
Not measuring your ingredients accurately can affect the final result. Using dry measuring cups for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for liquids is key.
Be cautious with baking time; every oven is different, and underbaking can lead to soggy crusts while overbaking may result in dry filling. Recognizing when they are perfectly baked takes practice.
Lastly, remember to cool the pies before storing. Storing them too soon may lead to moisture buildup, ruining their texture.
nutritional notes
Mini Pumpkin Pies can be a relatively healthy treat if made with wholesome ingredients. The pumpkin puree is packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.
Using coconut sugar or other natural sweeteners can help reduce refined sugar intake, making these mini pies a better option when satisfying your sweet cravings.
They can also easily accommodate dairy-free or gluten-free diets, depending on the pie crust and milk alternatives you choose.
However, moderation is key, as they are still a dessert and may contain added sugars and fats. Balancing them with healthier meals during the day can keep your diet in check.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can substitute any milk or milk alternative in this recipe, such as almond milk or soy milk.
Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and freeze it or even bake them a few days in advance. Just store them appropriately.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can substitute eggs with 1/4 cup of almond butter or use flax eggs. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, and let it sit for a few minutes.
conclusion
Mini Pumpkin Pies offer a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie in bite-sized treats. They are simple to make and perfect for sharing during celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Whether you’re treating your family or entertaining guests, these mini pies are sure to impress. With a few variations and creative serves, you can keep the experience fresh and exciting each time.
Embrace the cozy vibes of fall and whip up a batch of Mini Pumpkin Pies. They’ll surely become a beloved addition to your recipe collection!
