Crustless pumpkin pie is the perfect dessert for those who want a delicious treat without the hassle of a traditional crust. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for cozy gatherings or a simple weeknight indulgence. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this crustless pumpkin pie offers all the classic tastes of fall in a convenient ramekin format. Plus, it’s great for portion control, making it suitable for two servings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, making it perfect for busy days.
- Rich Flavor: Enjoy the classic taste of pumpkin pie with added creaminess from heavy cream, enhancing every bite.
- No Crust Needed: Skip the fuss of making pastry dough while still enjoying a delightful dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth.
- Perfect Portions: Baked in ramekins, this recipe serves two, making it great for sharing or saving leftovers without waste.
- Versatile Topping Options: Serve with whipped cream, nuts, or additional spices to customize each serving to your liking.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your crustless pumpkin pie, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Ramekins
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Ramekins: These provide the perfect size for individual servings while ensuring even baking.
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
- Whisk: Using a whisk ensures a smooth batter without incorporating too much air, which is key for this recipe.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet keeps the ramekins stable in the oven and catches any drips.
Ingredients
Crustless pumpkin pie baked in two ramekins. So easy, so delicious!
For the Pie Filling
- 5 ounces (2/3 cup) canned pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup (79mL) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (45 grams) brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
How to Make Crustless Pumpkin Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Gather all ingredients and have 2 six-ounce ramekins ready for filling.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Add all the ingredients together.
2. Use a whisk to combine them well until smooth.
3. Avoid using an electric mixer to prevent incorporating air into the batter.
Step 3: Fill Ramekins
Divide the mixture evenly between the two prepared ramekins.
Step 4: Bake
Place the ramekins on a baking sheet:
1. Bake for about 40 minutes.
2. The center should slightly jiggle when done.
3. Turn off the oven and prop open the door with a wooden spoon; cool in the oven for 1-2 hours.
Step 5: Chill
Cover each ramekin with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
Step 6: Serve
Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and an extra dusting of spices if desired. Enjoy your delicious crustless pumpkin pie!
How to Serve Crustless Pumpkin Pie
Crustless pumpkin pie is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether you prefer it simple or dressed up, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
Classic Whipped Cream
- Add a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for the classic touch.
- The sweet and airy texture pairs perfectly with the rich pumpkin flavor.
Spiced Pecans
- Sprinkle some spiced pecans over the pie for added crunch.
- The nutty flavor complements the warm spices in the pie.
Vanilla Ice Cream
- Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the pie.
- The cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the warm dessert.
Caramel Drizzle
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each serving for an indulgent twist.
- This adds a rich sweetness that enhances the pumpkin taste.
Fresh Berries
- Add a side of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries.
- Their tartness balances the sweetness of the pie beautifully.
How to Perfect Crustless Pumpkin Pie
To achieve the best crustless pumpkin pie, follow these helpful tips for a foolproof dessert.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality canned pumpkin puree and fresh spices will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Avoid Overmixing: Whisk just enough to combine ingredients. Overmixing can create air bubbles, leading to cracks.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. The center should only slightly jiggle when done; this ensures a perfect texture.
- Cool Gradually: Allowing the pie to cool slowly in the oven helps prevent cracks from forming due to sudden temperature changes.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the pie for at least four hours improves its flavor and makes it easier to slice.
Best Side Dishes for Crustless Pumpkin Pie
Crustless pumpkin pie pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your dessert.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, honey-glazed carrots add a lovely contrast in flavors.
- Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The savory and slightly bitter sprouts roasted with maple syrup enhance your meal’s overall taste.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that balances well with sweet desserts.
- Savory Stuffing: A flavorful stuffing made with herbs adds depth and heartiness to your meal.
- Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans topped with toasted almonds offer freshness that cuts through the richness of the pie.
- Apple Salad: A crisp salad with apples, nuts, and greens brings a refreshing element that complements pumpkin flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Crustless Pumpkin Pie can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps your pie set properly.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can introduce air into your batter, causing it to puff up and then deflate. Mix just until combined for a smooth texture.
- Ignoring Baking Time: It’s important to watch for doneness. The center should slightly jiggle when it’s done. Don’t open the oven door frequently, as it can affect baking.
- Not Allowing Cooling Time: Letting the pie cool in the oven helps it set perfectly. Rushing this step can lead to a runny texture.
- Serving Too Soon: Refrigerate your pie for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows flavors to meld and improves the overall taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Crustless Pumpkin Pie in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Crustless Pumpkin Pie
- Wrap individual ramekins tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- You can freeze them for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Crustless Pumpkin Pie
- Oven: Preheat to 325°F (160°C) and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes total.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making a Crustless Pumpkin Pie, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions.
How do I know when my Crustless Pumpkin Pie is done?
The pie is done when the center slightly jiggles, but the edges are set. It should not be completely firm.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Just ensure that your pumpkin puree is smooth and well-cooked before using it in this recipe.
Is Crustless Pumpkin Pie gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any flour or crust.
Can I customize the spices in my Crustless Pumpkin Pie?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste or add extras like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Crustless Pumpkin Pie is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Its creamy texture paired with warm spices makes it comforting any time of year. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or spice variations!
Crustless Pumpkin Pie
Crustless pumpkin pie is a delightful twist on the traditional favorite, perfect for those craving the rich flavors of fall without the fuss of pastry. This easy-to-make dessert is baked in individual ramekins, making it ideal for cozy gatherings or a simple weeknight treat. With its creamy texture and spiced pumpkin goodness, this pie delivers all the classic tastes you love while being naturally gluten-free. Whether topped with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel, this crustless pumpkin pie is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 5 ounces canned pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, heavy cream, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and spices. Whisk until smooth.
- Divide the mixture evenly between two six-ounce ramekins.
- Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for about 40 minutes until the center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven and let them cool inside for 1-2 hours before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
- Serve chilled with toppings of your choice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin (about 152g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
