Mini Pumpkin Pies Recipe

If you’re searching for an adorable fall treat that’s bursting with cozy flavors, these Mini Pumpkin Pies are exactly what you need. Perfectly portioned and packed with pumpkin goodness, they capture the spirit of the season in every bite. Imagine tender, flaky crust embracing a warm, spiced pumpkin filling, all topped off with a delicate maple glaze that brings just the right touch of sweetness. These little pies aren’t just a dessert; they’re a celebration of autumn’s best moments, making them a fantastic conversation starter at any gathering or a charming snack to enjoy with your favorite cup of tea. Trust me, once you try these Mini Pumpkin Pies, they’ll become a beloved staple in your seasonal baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Mini Pumpkin Pies is a delightful experience thanks to a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, from the creamy pumpkin puree that brings the earthy flavor, to the warming pumpkin pie spice that adds that classic autumn touch, and the maple syrup which offers a natural, rich sweetness that ties everything together beautifully.

• Deep Dish Frozen Pie Crusts (2, 9 inch): These provide a buttery, flaky base that’s easy to work with and crisps up perfectly in the oven.
• Pumpkin Puree (1/2 cup): The heart of the filling, delivering smooth texture and unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a deep caramel sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
• Maple Syrup (1 Tablespoon plus extra for glaze): Infuses the filling and glaze with a signature fall sweetness and subtle complexity.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1/4 teaspoon): A warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that wakes up the taste buds.
• Egg (1, beaten): Used for brushing the crust to achieve that gorgeous golden finish.
• Lollipop Sticks (6, optional): Add a fun, whimsical way to hold your Mini Pumpkin Pies if you want a festive twist.
• Icing Sugar (1/2 cup): The base for the sweet, glossy glaze that gently crowns each pie.
• Vanilla Extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the glaze with a creamy, fragrant hint that balances all the flavors.

How to Make Mini Pumpkin Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by taking the frozen pie crusts out of the freezer and letting them thaw on the counter for about an hour. This softens the dough just enough so it’s easy to roll out without cracking. Once ready, remove them from their tins and roll the dough flat with a rolling pin. Using a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter, cut out as many pumpkins as you can — this little festive detail adds charm and cuts down on extra mess.

Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Filling

While your dough rests, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl. This combination forms the aromatic and sweet filling with a perfect balance of spice and earthy richness that makes Mini Pumpkin Pies so irresistible.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies with a Touch of Fun

On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, lay out half of your pumpkin cutouts. Brush each with the beaten egg to help everything stick together and develop a glossy crust. If you want to go the extra mile, gently press a lollipop stick into each shape — pushing in about an inch — which makes these pies wonderfully portable and festive.

Step 4: Fill and Seal

Next, spoon a small dollop of the pumpkin mixture onto the center of each egg-brushed pumpkin shape, careful to leave some space around the edges for sealing. Take the remaining pumpkin cutouts and carefully press them on top. Using your fingers and then the tines of a fork, crimp around the edges tightly to seal in that delicious filling, ensuring the pies don’t leak during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Brush the tops of your assembled pies with the beaten egg and pop them in the oven at 350°F. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the crust turns a beautiful golden brown. The smell wafting from your oven at this stage is like pure autumn magic.

Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While the pies are baking, whisk together the icing sugar, vanilla extract, and maple syrup in a small bowl. Add the syrup one tablespoon at a time until you get a slightly runny glaze. Pour this mixture into a ziplock bag, seal it, and snip a tiny corner to create a piping bag. Once your pies cool just enough, drizzle the glaze artistically over each Mini Pumpkin Pie — this glossy finish adds a lovely sweetness and visual appeal.

How to Serve Mini Pumpkin Pies

Garnishes

There are so many lovely ways to dress up your Mini Pumpkin Pies when serving. A dusting of cinnamon or a pinch of finely chopped toasted pecans can bring some crunchy texture and nutty flavor that contrast wonderfully with the soft filling. You can also dollop a spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside for an indulgent treat.

Side Dishes

Mini Pumpkin Pies are fantastic on their own, but if you’re creating a festive spread, pair them with spiced apple cider or warm chai tea to amplify those trademark fall flavors. For a brunch, these pies shine next to a fresh fruit salad or a spinach and feta quiche, providing a sweet finale that rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Presenting your Mini Pumpkin Pies can be just as fun as making them. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board decorated with autumn leaves, small gourds, or cinnamon sticks for an inviting tablescape. If you included lollipop sticks, stand the pies upright in a pumpkin-shaped bowl filled with dried beans or rice for an unexpected pop of whimsy that both kids and adults will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra pies (which is not unlikely), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, letting you enjoy the warm flavors of fall even on busy days.

Freezing

Mini Pumpkin Pies freeze beautifully. To extend their life, flash freeze the pies on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months — perfect for prepping ahead of a big event or holiday gathering.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly-baked charm, reheat the pies in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes if thawed, or 20 to 25 minutes if frozen. Avoid the microwave to keep the crust flaky and crisp. Add a quick drizzle of fresh glaze after warming for that just-made glow.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pie crust instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a lovely personal touch and can be made as flaky or as buttery as you like. Just roll it out to the appropriate thickness for cutting your pumpkin shapes. Using homemade crust might require a bit more prep time, but the delicious payoff is well worth it.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand?

No problem! You can easily make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in small amounts. This way, you control the spice balance, customizing it to your taste while still getting that quintessential fall flavor.

Are the lollipop sticks necessary?

Not at all. The lollipop sticks are an optional fun addition that make these pies easy to hold and serve, especially at parties or for kids. If you prefer to keep them traditional, simply skip this step and bake the pies as cute little hand pies instead.

Can these Mini Pumpkin Pies be made gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the frozen pie crust with a gluten-free variety available in stores or make your own using gluten-free flour blends. Just be sure the crust dough is sturdy enough to hold the filling without cracking.

How sweet are these Mini Pumpkin Pies?

These pies have a gentle, natural sweetness from the maple syrup and brown sugar. The glaze adds a delicate finishing touch of extra sweet, but nothing too overwhelming. If you prefer sweeter desserts, you can easily increase the maple syrup slightly or add a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

Final Thoughts

Making Mini Pumpkin Pies is such a joyful way to welcome the season’s flavors into your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these little delights bring warmth, sweetness, and a hint of nostalgia with every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe soon — it’s a fun project that results in a stunning, tasty treat sure to make your fall celebrations extra special.

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