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There is something incredibly cozy and delightful about a pumpkin dessert when the chill of autumn sets in, and this Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe is a perfect example of that comforting magic. Without the fuss of a crust, this pie highlights the rich, spiced pumpkin filling that is velvety smooth and bursting with warm flavors, all while being lighter and easier to prepare than traditional pumpkin pie. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug and a celebration of fall’s best flavors rolled into one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe calls for a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays an important role: from creating the creamy texture to bringing out the natural sweetness and those signature fall spices. Unlike many other pies, these essentials keep it both wholesome and satisfying.
- Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient providing that unmistakable autumn flavor and luscious texture.
- Full-fat canned coconut milk: Adds richness and a subtle creaminess that mimics traditional dairy in a dairy-free way.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding the mixture and giving the pie that custard-like consistency.
- Tapioca flour (or cornstarch): Acts as a natural thickener, helping the pie set perfectly without cracking.
- Pure vanilla extract (optional): A gentle touch of sweetness that lifts the pumpkin’s flavor.
- Pure maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the pie with depth and a hint of caramelized flavor.
- Fresh grated ginger (optional): Adds a bright, spicy note that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.
- Pumpkin pie spice: The perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that quintessential pumpkin pie aroma.
- Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness flawlessly.
How to Make Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Dish
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9-inch pie dish generously with nonstick cooking spray—this simple step makes all the difference when it’s time to serve because nothing sticks, and your slices will come out perfectly intact.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Place all the ingredients into a blender. Blend everything on low speed until you get a smooth, even mixture. No blender? No problem. You can also whisk everything together by hand or use an electric hand mixer in a bowl. The key is ensuring the mixture is completely uniform so the texture stays silky after baking.
Step 3: Bake the Pie
Pour the velvety pumpkin mixture into your prepared pie dish and pop it into the oven on the center rack. Let it bake for about 40 to 50 minutes. Around 40 to 45 minutes, peek in to ensure it’s not browning too much on top. You want the center to just set and gently spring back when touched—a sign that custardy perfection has been reached.
Step 4: Cool and Chill
Once baked, allow your Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe to cool for about 15 minutes on the counter. Then cover with plastic wrap and transfer it to the fridge to chill completely. This step is essential because the pie firms up as it cools, making slicing and serving cleaner and easier.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
After chilling, carefully cut the pie into slices. Use a flexible spatula to gently lift each piece from the dish; since there’s no crust, the filling can be delicate, so handle with care. The longer you chill it, the sturdier the slices become. Serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Creation
A classic way to enjoy this pie is with a dollop of whipped cream on top, adding that cool and creamy contrast to the warm pumpkin spices. And just like that, you’ve got a stunning dessert that’s both simple and show-stopping!
How to Serve Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, the possibilities are wonderfully flexible. A swirl of freshly whipped cream is a crowd-pleaser, but for an extra special touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top. Toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup also add a textural contrast and deeper flavor dimension that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with autumnal sides like spiced apple compote or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to create a classic, indulgent dessert plate. If you’re serving it as part of a festive meal, consider a hot cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness with warm, aromatic notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Consider serving small individual portions of the Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe in ramekins topped with a single pecan or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a rustic touch. You could also layer slices with dollops of mascarpone or cream cheese frosting for a more decadent twist. Presentation is part of the charm and lets your creativity shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 4 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more—sometimes, pie actually tastes better the next day!
Freezing
If you want to make this pie well ahead of time, freezing is an excellent option. After the pie has chilled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep its texture and flavor for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds if you prefer a warm dessert. Alternatively, you can enjoy this pie cold straight from the fridge, which enhances its creamy texture and fresh flavors—perfect anytime you need a cozy treat!
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Fresh pumpkin can work but requires extra preparation like roasting and pureeing until smooth. Canned pumpkin puree is more convenient and consistent in texture for this Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe, helping the pie set perfectly every time.
Is this pie dairy-free?
Yes! Using canned coconut milk instead of dairy cream makes this recipe naturally dairy-free while still offering richness and creaminess that matches traditional pumpkin pie filling.
What if I don’t have tapioca flour? Can I use cornstarch instead?
Absolutely. Tapioca flour and cornstarch both act as thickening agents. For this recipe, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch can substitute the 1.5 tablespoons of tapioca flour without any problem.
How do I prevent the pie from cracking while baking?
Cracking is often due to overbaking or rapid temperature changes. Bake the pie until just set and cool it gradually at room temperature before refrigerating. This makes the custard firm up nicely while minimizing cracks in your Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe.
Can I add other spices or flavorings?
Definitely! While pumpkin pie spice is classic, feel free to experiment with additions like cardamom, allspice, or even a splash of bourbon or espresso for a grown-up twist on this Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about sharing this Crustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe with friends and family. It’s simple to make, filled with warm spices, and lighter than traditional pies without sacrificing taste or texture. If you’re looking for an effortless way to bring that iconic pumpkin flavor to your table, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple—you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated fall without it!
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PrintCrustless Pumpkin Pie Recipe
This Crustless Pumpkin Pie is a creamy, dairy-free alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, perfect for those looking to enjoy the classic fall flavor without a crust. Made with pumpkin puree, coconut milk, and a blend of warming spices, this easy-to-make dessert is blended and baked to a silky custard-like texture. It’s a perfect seasonal treat that’s naturally gluten-free and sweetened with pure maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Crustless Pumpkin Pie Ingredients
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 Tbsp tapioca flour (or 1 Tbsp cornstarch)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tsp fresh ginger (peeled and grated, optional)
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9-inch pie dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the pie slices after baking.
- Combine Ingredients: Place all of the pumpkin pie ingredients into a blender. Blend on low speed until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Alternatively, mix the ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl using an electric hand mixer, wooden spoon, or whisk.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the blended pumpkin mixture evenly into the prepared pie dish. Bake on the center rack of the oven for 40 to 50 minutes. Check at around 40-45 minutes to avoid over-browning. The pie should be set and slightly risen in the center when done.
- Cool: Let the pie cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then cover it with plastic wrap and transfer it to the refrigerator to chill completely, ideally for several hours or overnight for best results.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut the pie into slices using a flexible spatula to carefully lift each piece from the dish. Due to the absence of a crust, the custard is delicate and can break apart easily. The longer the pie chills, the easier it is to slice and serve.
- Optional Topping: Serve chilled slices with a dollop of whipped cream for an added creamy texture.
Notes
- Full-fat canned coconut milk provides richness and creaminess as a dairy-free alternative, enhancing the pie’s texture.
- Maple syrup is used for natural sweetness, but you can adjust the amount to taste or substitute with honey if not strictly vegan.
- Using tapioca flour helps with the custard’s set and thickness; cornstarch is a suitable substitute.
- Fresh grated ginger is optional but adds a lovely warming spice to complement the pumpkin pie spice.
- Chilling the pie thoroughly is key to allowing it to firm up, making cutting and serving easier.
- This pie is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
