As soon as I open that can of pumpkin, I already know this pie is happening.
My first great tip for Libby’s Pumpkin Pie?
Don’t skip warming the filling ingredients slightly—it helps everything bake more evenly.
And a little extra cinnamon and a pinch of salt in the crust help the pie taste more balanced overall.
I check for doneness by gently nudging the pan—the edges should be set, but the center should still move a bit.
Make sure to use a metal pie plate if you can—it helps the crust firm up better than glass.
I keep coming back to this recipe because it just works every single time without needing adjustments.
The mix of texture, spice, and that custard-like center always makes it worth the wait to cool and slice!
How to Make Libby’s Pumpkin Pie
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 1 tsp Cinnamon (ground)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Ginger (ground)
- 1/4 tsp Cloves (ground)
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 can Pumpkin (15 oz.)
- 1 can Evaporated Milk (12 oz.)
- 1 unbaked Pie Shell (9-inch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 425°F.
This ensures the right temperature for a crisp crust and properly cooked filling.
Step 2:
In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and cloves.
Set the bowl aside for later use.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in pumpkin and prepared spice mixture.
Slowly add the evaporated milk, stirring until smooth and well combined.
Step 4:
Pour the mixture into the pie shell, carefully spreading it evenly.
Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
Step 5:
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, or until an inserted knife comes out clean.
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for 2 hours.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Spices
Using fresh spices can enhance the flavor of your pie by adding more intensity.
It’s amazing how a little fresh cinnamon or ginger can boost the taste.
Cover Crust Edges
If the crust edges start browning too fast, cover them with strips of aluminum foil.
This simple trick prevents over-browning and keeps them looking perfect.
Check Pie with a Knife
To ensure your pie is fully cooked, insert a knife near the center about two inches from the crust edge.
When it comes out clean, your pie is ready.
Let It Cool Completely
Letting the pie cool completely helps the filling to set properly.
This might require patience, but it makes slicing much easier.
Store Properly
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain the pie’s quality.
Refrigeration helps preserve both flavor and texture for a longer period.
What to Serve with Libby’s Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Classic Mashed Potatoes
You can’t go wrong with a big bowl of creamy mashed potatoes.
The smooth and buttery texture complements the sweetness of pumpkin pie perfectly, creating an awesome contrast in flavors.
For a little something extra, try mixing in roasted garlic or chives for a subtle kick.
Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole pairs well with pumpkin pie on any table.
The crunchy onion topping along with the creamy sauce is absolutely comforting.
It’s a versatile and easy dish to prepare alongside your pie.
Cranberry Sauce
A sweet and tangy cranberry sauce is a fantastic choice to serve with your pumpkin pie.
The bright, tartness of the cranberries provides a nice balance to the sweetness of the pie.
Try a homemade version with a bit of orange zest to add a citrusy twist.
Spiced Roasted Pecans
For something a bit unusual, spiced roasted pecans make a wonderful accompaniment to your pie.
The savory spices on the toasted nuts bring out the warm spices in the pumpkin pie filling.
You might find this to be an addictive snack that pairs nicely with desserts.
Orange-Caramel Glazed Carrots
Another unique but delicious choice is orange-caramel glazed carrots.
They add a vibrant color to your meal and an interesting mix of sweet and savory flavors.
The caramelized glaze complements the pie and is a treat for your taste buds.
Variations and Substitutions
Spice Mix Substitution
For a twist on the classic recipe, you can swap the traditional cinnamon, ginger, and cloves with pumpkin pie spice.
Using 1-3/4 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice gives a slightly different, yet delicious flavor.
Milk Alternatives
If you’re looking for a creamier texture, opt for sweetened condensed milk instead of evaporated milk.
Just remember, it’s already sweet, so you might want to reduce the sugar a bit.
Sugar Adjustments
If you’re using pumpkin pie mix, keep in mind it contains sugar.
You’ll want to adjust your recipe by cutting down about a scant cup of sugar.
Crust Options
For those who like experimenting, consider a homemade graham cracker crust or a gluten-free crust.
Both can offer a unique texture and flavor profile to the pie.
How to Store Leftover Libby’s Pumpkin Pie
Room Temperature Cooling
After baking, let your pumpkin pie cool at room temperature.
This usually takes about two to four hours.
Be sure not to leave it out longer than four hours to avoid any food safety concerns.
Refrigeration Tips
Once cooled, cover your pumpkin pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place it in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to four days.
Using airtight containers will also help maintain its delicious taste and texture.
Freezing Method
If you plan to store it for a longer period, freezing is a great option!
Wrap the pie tightly with tin foil, then add a layer of plastic wrap.
This method can keep your pumpkin pie good in the freezer for up to one month.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Too Much Evaporated Milk
It’s easy to pour a little extra evaporated milk, but it can make your pie too liquidy.
Stick closely to the recipe amounts for the best texture.
An extra dollop can cause a runny filling, and nobody wants that!
Using Ready-Made Pumpkin Pie Filling
Using canned pumpkin pie filling might seem like a good shortcut, but it’s not ideal here.
Libby’s recipe calls for their pure pumpkin puree for the right flavor and consistency.
Trust me, this small step makes all the difference!
Incorrect Oven Temperature
An oven set too high or low can directly affect how the pie bakes.
Ensure your oven’s temperature is just right by using an oven thermometer.
A well-set oven helps achieve a perfect pie texture.
Libby's Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 1 tsp Cinnamon ground
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Ginger ground
- 1/4 tsp Cloves ground
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 can Pumpkin 15 oz.
- 1 can Evaporated Milk 12 oz.
- 1 unbaked Pie Shell 9-inch
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- This ensures the right temperature for a crisp crust and properly cooked filling.
- In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and cloves.
- Set the bowl aside for later use.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in pumpkin and prepared spice mixture.
- Slowly add the evaporated milk, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the pie shell, carefully spreading it evenly.
- Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, or until an inserted knife comes out clean.
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for 2 hours.