If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that perfectly combines seasonal warmth with a delightful crunch, the Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe is exactly what you need. This pie boasts the smooth, velvety richness of spiced pumpkin filling paired with a buttery, nutty pecan streusel that adds an irresistible texture and flavor contrast. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply craving a cozy treat, this pie will charm every guest and fill your kitchen with the most enchanting aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this pie truly unforgettable. From the creamy pumpkin filling to the crunchy pecan streusel, these simple elements come together in harmony to delight your taste buds.
- Pie crust (1 unbaked 9-inch): A flaky base that holds all the delicious filling and streusel perfectly.
- Pumpkin purée (1 15-ounce can): The star ingredient providing that authentic pumpkin flavor, be sure to use pure pumpkin, not the pie mix.
- Brown sugar (1 cup + 1/2 cup, firmly packed): Adds sweetness and moisture for both the filling and streusel.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind and set the pumpkin filling with a silky texture.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup + 3 tablespoons, melted): Brings richness to the filling and crumbly goodness to the streusel topping.
- Evaporated milk (1 5-ounce can): Contributes creaminess and smoothness to the pie filling.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Essential warming spice that defines pumpkin pie’s signature flavor.
- Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, spicy zing to brighten the mix.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A little dash of nutmeg adds depth and complexity.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon total, divided): Enhances all flavors, balancing sweetness and spices.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor with a gentle sweetness and aroma.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Provides the irresistible crunch and nutty flavor in the streusel topping.
- All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Helps bind the streusel and create that perfect crumbly texture.
How to Make Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Place your unbaked pie crust on a rimmed baking sheet for easy handling. This helps catch any filling drips and keeps your oven clean. The crust sets the foundation for the pie, so having it ready and sturdy is the first step towards pie perfection.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, 1 cup of brown sugar, eggs, and melted butter until fully combined. Add the evaporated milk along with the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until the filling is smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious mixture directly into your prepared pie crust, ensuring it spreads evenly for ideal baking.
Step 3: Bake the Pie Base
Place your pie in the center of the oven and bake at 425°F for 30 minutes. This initial high heat helps set the custard base quickly, locking in the creamy texture that distinguishes this pie. Meanwhile, prepare your heavenly pecan streusel topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pecans, flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, salt, and melted butter. Use your fingers to gently press and mix the ingredients until they form a slightly crumbly, lumpy mixture. This streusel mixture will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor once baked on top of your pumpkin pie.
Step 5: Add Streusel Topping and Finish Baking
After the first 30 minutes of baking, carefully remove the pie from the oven and sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly over the top. Reduce the temperature to 350°F and return the pie to the oven. Bake for another 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is set — you can test by inserting a toothpick in the center, which should come out mostly clean. Let the pie cool completely before serving for the best texture and flavor development.
How to Serve Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
Garnishes
This pie is stunning on its own, but adding a fluffy cloud of whipped cream immediately elevates it to gourmet level. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Another fun twist is toasted marshmallow cream, which adds a smoky sweetness complementing the streusel topping beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve this pumpkin pie alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee to recreate that cozy autumn feeling. It also pairs well with a light salad featuring citrus and nuts if you want to balance the richness of the dessert after a hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! Try slicing the pie and serving each piece on a decorative plate, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pecans around the edge. You can also place individual portions in mini clear cups layered with whipped cream for a fun party-friendly dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and moisture. This makes it easy to prepare ahead for events or enjoy slices throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this pie later or save a portion, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to two months. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to refresh the crumbly topping and soften the pie filling. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and affect the overall texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for this pie?
Absolutely! If you want to use fresh pumpkin, roast and purée it until smooth, then measure out 15 ounces just like the canned version. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture before using to avoid a watery filling.
What can I substitute for evaporated milk?
You can substitute evaporated milk with an equal amount of whole milk mixed with 2 tablespoons of powdered milk for a similar richness, or use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Each will slightly influence the flavor, but all work well.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
To avoid over-browning, cover the pie crust edges with strips of aluminum foil or a pie shield once the filling is partially set. This shields the crust while the center finishes baking perfectly.
Can I prepare the streusel topping in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the streusel a day ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Just give it a quick stir before sprinkling it on the pie for even baking.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Definitely. Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the all-purpose flour in the streusel with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Final Thoughts
This Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe is truly a treasure, guaranteed to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen. Its perfect combination of smooth pumpkin custard and crunchy pecan topping is a celebration of flavors and textures that brings warmth and joy to any table. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with the people you love!
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Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping is a classic autumn dessert elevated with a crunchy pecan streusel layer. Featuring a rich, spiced pumpkin filling baked in a flaky pie crust, it captures the quintessential fall flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Finished with a buttery pecan crumble on top, this pie is perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
Pie Filling
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
- 1 (15-ounce) can canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix)
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or flavoring
Pecan Streusel Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips and make handling easier. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
- Make Pumpkin Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin purée, brown sugar, eggs, and melted butter until combined. Stir in the evaporated milk, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Pour this pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake the Pie Filling: Place the pie in the center of the preheated oven and bake at 425°F for 30 minutes. This initial high-temperature bake helps set the filling.
- Prepare Pecan Streusel: While the pie is baking, combine the chopped pecans, flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Use your fingers to press and crumble the mixture together, creating a crumbly streusel topping. Set aside.
- Add Streusel Topping and Continue Baking: After the 30 minutes of initial baking, carefully remove the pie from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the prepared pecan streusel over the top of the pumpkin filling. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes or until the pie is set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate to set fully before serving. For an extra special touch, serve the pie topped with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or toasted marshmallow cream if desired.
Notes
- Use pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie mix, to control the sweetness and spices in the filling.
- Chilling the pie thoroughly after baking helps it set and slices cleanly.
- Storing the pie refrigerated keeps it fresh and safe to eat for several days.
- For added texture and flavor, try toasting pecans before incorporating them into the streusel.
- This pie is perfect for holiday meals and pairs wonderfully with coffee or spiced cider.
