Pumpkin pie is a holiday staple, but what if you could enjoy it with a healthier twist? Healthy Pumpkin Pie combines the comforting flavors of traditional pie with a few lightened-up ingredients. You’ll still savor the creamy, spiced filling and buttery crust, but with less guilt. Whether you’re looking for a treat for Thanksgiving or just a cozy dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why Healthy Pumpkin Pie is the Perfect Choice
Healthy Pumpkin Pie keeps all the flavors you love while swapping out some traditional ingredients for lighter options. It’s a great way to enjoy dessert without overindulging. Plus, it’s easy to make and looks beautiful on any holiday table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pie:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Refrigerated pie crusts | 2 |
Pumpkin puree | 1 cup |
Packed brown sugar | ⅓ cup |
Heavy cream | 2 tbsp |
Pumpkin pie spice | 1 ½ tsp |
Kosher salt | ¼ tsp |
Egg | 1 |
Water | 1 tsp |
For Topping:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Coarse sanding sugar | 2 tbsp |
Pumpkin pie spice | ½ tsp |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Pie Crusts
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface to remove creases.
- Use a 3-4 inch pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the dough.
- Place the cut shapes on the prepared baking sheets and chill in the refrigerator while you make the filling.
3. Make the Pumpkin Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, heavy cream, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt until smooth.
- Set the filling aside.
4. Assemble the Pies
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of the pumpkin filling to each chilled dough shape, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Cut small vents in the remaining dough shapes to create tops for the pies.
- Brush the edges of the filled shapes with an egg wash made from 1 egg whisked with 1 teaspoon of water.
- Place the vented dough shapes over the filled ones, pressing the edges together gently.
- Seal the edges by pressing with the tines of a fork.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
- Brush the tops of the pies with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle each pie with coarse sanding sugar and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for added flavor and texture.
6. Bake the Pies
- Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the pies rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Healthy Pumpkin Pie
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough shapes before baking helps them hold their shape in the oven.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh pumpkin pie spice ensures the best flavor.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling the pies to prevent leakage during baking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Total Fat | 8g |
Saturated Fat | 4g |
Cholesterol | 40mg |
Sodium | 120mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 24g |
Sugars | 12g |
Protein | 3g |
FAQs About Healthy Pumpkin Pie
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mini pies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use homemade pie crust?
Absolutely. Homemade pie crust adds a personal touch and can make the pies even more delicious.
3. What if I don’t have a pumpkin-shaped cutter?
You can use any shape of cookie cutter or simply cut the dough into circles or squares.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a crisp crust.
5. Can I freeze these pies?
Yes! Freeze the baked pies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. How can I make these pies dairy-free?
Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free pie crust.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these mini pies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair them with a warm cup of chai or pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall experience.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Fall Dessert
Healthy Pumpkin Pie is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. These mini pies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday treats. Easy to make, fun to eat, and packed with pumpkin spice goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the cozy comfort of homemade pumpkin pie!
PrintHealthy Pumpkin Pie: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini pies
Description
Enjoy the cozy flavors of traditional pumpkin pie with a lighter twist! Healthy Pumpkin Pie delivers all the spiced, creamy goodness you love while using wholesome ingredients. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a guilt-free treat, this recipe is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Pie:
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon water
For Topping:
- 2 tablespoons coarse sanding sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Pie Crusts:
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface to remove creases.
- Use a 3-4 inch cookie cutter (pumpkin-shaped or other) to cut out shapes from the dough.
- Place the cut shapes on the prepared baking sheets and chill in the refrigerator while you make the filling.
- Make the Pumpkin Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, heavy cream, pumpkin pie spice, and kosher salt until smooth.
- Assemble the Pies:
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the pumpkin filling onto half of the chilled dough shapes, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Cut small vents into the remaining dough shapes to serve as tops for the pies.
- Brush the edges of the filled shapes with an egg wash made by whisking 1 egg with 1 teaspoon of water.
- Place the vented dough shapes over the filled ones and press the edges together gently.
- Seal the edges by pressing with the tines of a fork.
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- Brush the tops of the pies with the egg wash.
- Sprinkle each pie with coarse sanding sugar and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake the Pies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the pies rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough shapes before baking helps them hold their shape.
- Don’t Overfill: Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during baking.
- Homemade Option: Feel free to use homemade pie crust for a more personal touch.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American