If you’re dreaming of that perfect blend of creamy, spiced pumpkin filling and a crunchy, nutty topping, you’ve just found it. The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe is a showstopper that combines the beloved cozy flavors of autumn with a delightful, buttery streusel crunch that takes pumpkin pie to glorious heights. It’s the kind of dessert that not only fills your home with inviting aromas but also wins over every taste bud at the table, making it the perfect centerpiece for holiday celebrations or any time you crave a little slice of pumpkin perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with ingredients that you probably have on hand, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the pie’s irresistible flavor, smooth texture, and autumnal charm.
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust: The buttery, flaky base that cradles all the goodness.
- 1 (15-ounce) can canned pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix): The rich and creamy heart of the pie, bringing natural pumpkin flavor.
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar (light or dark): Adds sweetness and depth with a lovely molasses hint.
- 2 large eggs: The binder that gives the filling its silky structure.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Enhances richness and smooths out the filling’s texture.
- 1 (5-ounce) can evaporated milk: Keeps the filling luxuriously creamy without being heavy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses classic warmth and spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Lends a subtle zing that brightens all the other spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers aromatic depth and comforting notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or flavoring: Adds a round, sweet fragrance that ties it all together.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: The star of the streusel topping, bringing crunch and nuttiness.
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar (light or dark): Sweetens the streusel with a touch of caramel richness.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Gives the streusel its crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the pecan flavor and balances sweetness in the topping.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Binds the streusel together with a savory, buttery finish.
How to Make Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to a robust 425°F. This high heat kickstarts the baking process, allowing the crust to set beautifully before the filling fully cooks. Place your unbaked pie crust on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips and make transferring it in and out of the oven a breeze. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Pumpkin Pie Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, brown sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and combined. Stir in the melted butter to enrich the filling, then add evaporated milk along with the fragrant spices — cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt — all of which bring that classic pumpkin pie warmth. Finally, fold in the vanilla extract for a subtle sweet edge. Pour this velvety filling into the prepared crust, getting ready for baking magic.
Step 3: Initial Baking Phase
Slide the filled pie into the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This step firms up the filling so it holds its shape nicely but still leaves it creamy. It also starts that inviting aroma of pumpkin and spices to fill your kitchen, promising something truly special.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Streusel Topping
While your pie is baking, mix the crunchy pecans with flour, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Use your fingers to gently press the mixture, creating that perfect crumble texture — not too dry and not too wet. This topping adds a delightful textural contrast that’s utterly addictive.
Step 5: Add Streusel and Finish Baking
Once the 30 minutes are up, carefully remove the pie from the oven and sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly over the pumpkin filling. Reduce your oven temperature to 350°F and return the pie to bake for another 25 to 30 minutes. The streusel crisps up beautifully while the pumpkin filling finishes setting. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean but not dry.
Step 6: Cooling and Serving Preparation
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack to help the filling set fully and the flavors meld. Once cool, refrigerate it to maintain freshness. This Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe shines when served slightly chilled or at room temperature with your favorite accompaniments.
How to Serve Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Topping this pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream is an absolute classic, but feel free to get creative. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of toasted marshmallow cream adds an extra layer of indulgence. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few extra toasted pecans on top can also make the presentation pop and deepen the flavor.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with cozy fall beverages like hot apple cider or a spiced chai latte. If you’re serving dessert after a hearty meal, a simple salad with crisp greens and tart vinaigrette can balance the richness beautifully, keeping the focus on that luscious pumpkin and pecan combination.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving individual slices with an artistic drizzle of caramel sauce or even layering small slices with whipped cream and pecan streusel crumbs in clear dessert glasses for a stunning parfait twist. The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe is not just delicious but versatile enough to impress in many dazzling ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy that perfect balance of creamy pumpkin and crunchy topping without any loss of texture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze pumpkin pie, but keep in mind that the streusel topping might soften a bit after thawing. To freeze, wrap the whole cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or slice and freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
If you’d like to enjoy the pie warm, reheat slices gently in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10–15 minutes to revive that fresh-baked feeling. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and the pecan streusel lose its crunch, diminishing the charming texture contrast of the Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! You’ll just need to cook and puree fresh pumpkin first, then drain any excess moisture to match the consistency of canned pumpkin. This can add a fresher flavor, but canned pumpkin is a convenient pantry staple that keeps this recipe quick and reliable.
What is the best type of pecans to use?
Fresh, raw pecans work best to achieve that perfect crunch and nutty flavor in the streusel. Toasting the pecans lightly before mixing can deepen the flavor even more, but it’s not required if you’re short on time.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour in the streusel topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, choose a gluten-free pie crust to keep everything safe for gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing taste.
How long should the pie cool before serving?
Allowing the pie to cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours, helps the filling set properly. Chilling it further in the fridge enhances the flavors and texture, making slicing easier and serving neater.
Is this pie suitable for making ahead for a holiday party?
Most definitely. The Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe actually benefits from making ahead because the flavors have time to meld and deepen overnight. Just top with fresh garnishes right before serving to keep everything looking fabulous.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bake something that brings joy with every bite and earns a permanent spot in your dessert lineup, the Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe is your go-to. Its effortless combination of creamy spiced pumpkin and crunchy pecan topping is a celebration of fall flavors that’s sure to delight family and friends alike. Give it a try, and enjoy all the wonderful smiles and compliments that come your way!
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Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping is a perfect fall dessert combining the rich, smooth pumpkin filling with a crunchy, buttery pecan streusel. Baked to perfection with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, this classic pie is elevated by a sweet and nutty crumb topping, making it a delightful treat for holidays or any cozy occasion.
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 the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin purée, 1 cup brown sugar, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. Stir in evaporated milk, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla until thoroughly combined. Pour the filling evenly into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake Initial Filling: Bake the pie in the center of the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial bake helps set the filling and prepares the crust.
- Make the Streusel Topping: While the pie bakes, combine chopped pecans, 1/2 cup brown sugar, all-purpose flour, salt, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Use your fingers to mix and press the ingredients together to form a crumbly streusel mixture. Set aside.
- Add Streusel and Continue Baking: After the initial 30 minutes, carefully remove the pie from the oven. Sprinkle the pecan streusel evenly 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 until the pie is set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely to room temperature, then refrigerate to fully set. Serve chilled or at room temperature topped with whipped cream, ice cream, or toasted marshmallow cream if desired.
Notes
- Use canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie mix, for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to pre-bake the crust briefly with the filling before adding the streusel to avoid a soggy crust.
- Store the pie covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- If you prefer a less sweet topping, you can reduce the brown sugar in the streusel by a quarter cup.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour in the streusel topping with a gluten-free flour blend.
