This maple pumpkin pie recipe takes the classic Thanksgiving dessert and gives it a warm, caramel-like twist with real maple syrup in the filling. It has that same silky, spiced custard you grew up with, but the maple syrup adds a depth of flavor that plain sugar just can't match.
Adjustable pie crust shield to prevent over-browning
Hand mixer for whipping the maple cream topping
Wire cooling rack
Ingredients
1unbaked 9-inch pie crusthomemade or store-bought
15ouncespumpkin pureeone 15-ounce can, pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling
3large eggsat room temperature
2/3cupheavy cream
1/2cuppure maple syrupGrade A dark for the boldest flavor
1/4cuplight brown sugarpacked
1teaspoonground cinnamon
1/2teaspoonground ginger
1/4teaspoonground nutmeg
1/4teaspoonground cloves
1/4teaspoonsalt
1teaspoonvanilla extract
For the Maple Whipped Cream Topping
1cupheavy whipping creamchilled
2tablespoonsmaple syrup
1teaspoonvanilla extract
extra maple syrupfor drizzling, optional
chopped toasted pecansfor garnish, optional
vanilla ice creamfor serving, optional
Instructions
Roll pie dough into a 12-inch circle and transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim excess dough, fold under, and crimp edges. Chill crust for 20 minutes while making filling.
Set oven rack to lower third position. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Whisk in heavy cream, maple syrup, and vanilla until combined.
Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt into the pumpkin mixture. Whisk until completely smooth with no spice streaks remaining.
Pour filling into chilled crust. Tap the pie plate on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F and bake for 40-45 minutes. Pie is done when edges are set and center has a slight wobble. Use a crust shield if edges brown too quickly.
Transfer to a wire rack and cool at room temperature for 2 hours. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to fully set.
In a chilled bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, maple syrup, and vanilla. Whip with a hand mixer on medium-high until soft peaks form, about 2-3 minutes. Do not overmix.
Slice chilled pie with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts. Top each slice with maple whipped cream and an extra drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
Notes
Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which already contains sugar and spices.
Eggs: Bring eggs to room temperature before whisking for a smoother, more evenly baked filling.
Chilling: Don't skip the crust chilling step—a cold crust holds its shape better in a hot oven.
Doneness: Watch for the slight jiggle test rather than overbaking until fully firm; the pie continues to set as it cools.
Cooling: Let the pie cool completely before slicing so the custard has time to firm up properly.
Maple syrup: A dark or very dark Grade A maple syrup gives the boldest flavor; lighter syrups will work but the flavor will be more subtle.
Make ahead: This pie is actually better when made a day ahead; store covered in the refrigerator and add whipped cream just before serving.
Storage: Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Freeze baked, unsliced pie for up to 2 months wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Variation: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for a warm, boozy note (Bourbon Maple Pumpkin Pie).
Dairy-free: Swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk.