Pumpkin pie is a quintessential dessert for Thanksgiving, embodying the flavors of fall and the warmth of the holiday season. For those seeking a truly exceptional pumpkin pie, look no further than The Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Pie Recipe. Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, has crafted a recipe that consistently delivers a smooth, rich, and perfectly spiced pumpkin pie that will be the star of your Thanksgiving table.
Close-up of a slice of pumpkin pie with a fork, showcasing its smooth texture and golden-brown crust
Why This Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Pie Recipe is a Must-Try
Ree Drummond’s pumpkin pie recipe, featured in her cookbooks and beloved by home bakers, stands out for its simplicity and incredible flavor. It’s not just another pumpkin pie recipe; it’s a reliable guide to creating a pie that’s both comforting and impressive. What makes this recipe so special?
- Flavor Balance: The Pioneer Woman perfectly balances the sweetness with warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg, ensuring the pumpkin flavor shines through without being overly sugary.
- Smooth Texture: This recipe guarantees a smooth, creamy filling, avoiding the grainy or watery texture that can sometimes plague homemade pumpkin pies.
- Accessible Ingredients: The ingredients are straightforward and readily available, making it easy for anyone to bake this pie, whether a seasoned baker or a beginner.
- Thanksgiving Tradition: Ree Drummond’s recipes are rooted in home-style cooking and holiday traditions, making this pumpkin pie recipe a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
Key Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Pumpkin Pie
To embark on your Pioneer Woman pumpkin pie journey, gather these essential ingredients:
- Unbaked Pie Crust: You can use your favorite homemade pie crust recipe or a store-bought crust for convenience. Ree Drummond herself has a fantastic pie crust recipe, but using a good quality store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing too much on flavor.
- Pumpkin Puree: The heart of the pie! You can use canned pumpkin puree for ease, or elevate the flavor by making your own homemade roasted pumpkin puree. Homemade puree often has a richer, less watery flavor than canned.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is a key ingredient that contributes to the pie’s smooth texture and sweetness. Sweetened condensed milk provides a unique richness that sets this recipe apart.
- Eggs: Eggs bind the filling together, giving it structure and richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of warmth and complexity.
- Spices: A blend of ground cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg creates the classic warm spice notes of pumpkin pie. Freshly ground spices will offer the most potent flavor.
- Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Evaporated Cane Juice (or Sweetener of Choice): While sweetened condensed milk provides sweetness, a touch of additional sweetener, like evaporated cane juice or your preferred alternative, perfects the sweetness level.
Ingredients for pumpkin pie filling in a clear glass bowl, showcasing pumpkin puree, eggs, spices, and sweetened condensed milk
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Pie
Follow these simple steps to bake a delicious Pioneer Woman pumpkin pie:
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Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out your pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges decoratively if desired. For best results, chill the prepared crust in the refrigerator while you make the filling. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
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Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cloves, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and evaporated cane juice (or sweetener). Whisk all ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no lumps for the smoothest filling.
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Pour and Bake: Pour the pumpkin pie filling into the prepared pie crust. Carefully place the pie in your preheated oven.
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Initial High Heat Bake: Bake at 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) for 15 minutes. This initial high heat helps to set the crust and prevent a soggy bottom.
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Reduce Heat and Continue Baking: Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking for an additional 40-50 minutes. The pie is done when the filling is mostly set but still slightly jiggly in the very center when gently shaken. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the edges with tin foil or use a pie crust shield.
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Cool Completely: Remove the pumpkin pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial for the filling to fully set and for the flavors to meld. Allow at least an hour of cooling time.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Pioneer Woman pumpkin pie chilled or at room temperature, as preferred. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect accompaniment to this classic Thanksgiving dessert.
Pouring pumpkin pie filling into a prepared pie crust in a pie pan
Close-up of a baked pumpkin pie with a golden brown crust, cooling on a wire rack
Tips for the Perfect Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Pie
- Homemade Pumpkin Puree: For a richer, more nuanced pumpkin flavor, consider making your own roasted pumpkin puree. It’s a simple process and elevates the taste of the pie significantly.
- Spice Freshness: Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor. If your spices have been in your pantry for a while, consider replacing them for optimal taste.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry or cracked pumpkin pie. Bake until the center is just set, with a slight jiggle remaining. The residual heat will continue to cook the pie as it cools.
- Blind Bake Crust (Optional): For an extra crispy crust, especially if using a homemade recipe that tends to get soggy, consider blind baking your pie crust before adding the filling.
- Whipped Cream is Essential: A generous serving of homemade whipped cream enhances the flavors and texture of the pumpkin pie. Consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or cinnamon to your whipped cream for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: Pumpkin pie is a great make-ahead dessert. It can be baked a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making Thanksgiving Day preparations less stressful.
Slices of pumpkin pie on plates, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon
Overhead shot of a whole pumpkin pie with decorative crust edges, sitting on a wooden surface
Slice of pumpkin pie being lifted from the pie dish with a pie server, showing the creamy filling and flaky crust
The Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Pie recipe is your ticket to a Thanksgiving dessert that will impress family and friends alike. With its perfect balance of spice, smooth texture, and classic pumpkin flavor, this recipe is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition in your home. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a slice of pumpkin pie perfection!
