Fall is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with these adorable and incredibly tasty pumpkin pie bites? Forget the fuss of a whole pie – these individual treats are perfect for a quick dessert, a party snack, or a satisfyingly sweet end to any meal. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal baking time and even less cleanup. Get ready to enjoy the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice without the overwhelming commitment of a traditional pie! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it perfect for those looking for delicious and satisfying healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 (14.1 ounce) can refrigerated pie crusts
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin – this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. You can use cooking spray or a little butter for this step.
Step 2: Blend the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt until smooth and well combined. A hand mixer works well, but a good whisk will do the job just as efficiently.
Step 3: Assemble the Bites
Unroll the pie crusts and use a 2 ½ - 3 inch cookie cutter or a knife to cut out circles. Press each circle into the bottom and up the sides of the muffin tin cups. If your pie crust is particularly crumbly, chill it for about 15 minutes before cutting to prevent it from breaking.
Step 4: Fill and Bake
Evenly fill each pie crust cup with the pumpkin filling. Don’t overfill; leave a little space at the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
Let the pumpkin pie bites cool completely in the muffin tin before removing them. This prevents them from breaking apart and makes for easier handling. Once cool, they’re ready to serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- For a richer flavor: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of regular milk.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of warmth.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pie crusts.
- Add a crunchy topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added texture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Pumpkin Pie Bites: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the pumpkin filling for a decadent twist.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese into the filling for a tangy surprise.
Nutritional Information (per bite, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on crust and milk used)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
These pumpkin pie bites are a simple yet impressive dessert that's perfect for any occasion. They’re quick to make, visually appealing, and bursting with delicious autumnal flavors. They are also a great option for easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas, making them perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cooking with this delightful fall treat!