So you want something sweet, adorable, and delicious without committing to a full-sized pie? Same. Mini desserts are basically the universe’s way of saying, “You deserve something cute today.” And mini pumpkin pies? Oh, they’re the definition of cute. Bite-sized, cozy, and impossible to share—unless you really, really like someone.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
These mini pumpkin pies are embarrassingly easy. Like, “I made these while half-asleep and they still turned out perfect” easy.
They’re also:
- Ideal for parties when you want guests to think you tried way harder than you did.
- Perfect for portion control… or binge-eating twelve in a row. Zero judgment.
- Great for using up leftover pumpkin puree staring at you in the fridge saying, “Hey, remember me?”
Honestly, this recipe is so idiot-proof, even I didn’t mess it up—shocking, I know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pie crusts (store-bought if you’re lazy; homemade if you want to feel like a kitchen legend)
- Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie mix—unless chaos is your hobby)
- Brown sugar
- White sugar (because one type of sugar just isn’t enough)
- Eggs
- Evaporated milk
- Pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon + ginger + nutmeg if you’re feeling extra fancy)
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional, but let’s be real—it’s not optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Yes, actually preheat it. No one likes half-baked regrets.
- Cut circles from your pie crust using a cookie cutter or a cup. Press each circle into a muffin tin like a tiny edible blanket.
- Mix the filling: Combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, evaporated milk, pumpkin spice, and vanilla. Stir until smooth. Pretend you’re hosting a cooking show.
- Fill each crust about ¾ full. Don’t overfill unless you enjoy cleaning your oven at midnight.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until the centers are set. They should jiggle like a polite wobble, not like a full-blown earthquake.
- Cool completely before removing from the pan. If you rush this, they’ll break apart dramatically like a soap opera exit scene.
- Top with whipped cream and try not to inhale them all instantly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping preheating. Rookie mistake. Your pies will bake weirdly and then you’ll blame me.
- Using pumpkin pie mix. It already has sugar and spices, so your filling will be chaos-in-a-cup.
- Overfilling the cups. Unless you enjoy mini pumpkin lava explosions.
- Taking them out of the tin too early. Patience, friend. They’re fragile little babies when hot.
- Ignoring your spices. Old spices taste like sadness—check the dates.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- Crust options: Try graham cracker crusts for a softer, sweeter vibe. IMO, they’re ridiculously good.
- Evaporated milk swap: Use half-and-half or heavy cream. Not the healthiest choice but honestly… who cares?
- Sugar swaps: Coconut sugar or maple syrup work, but flavor changes slightly. Still delicious.
- Spice alternatives: No pumpkin spice? No problem. Use a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Bonus points if you eyeball it like a fearless grandma.
- Vegan version: Use coconut milk + flax eggs + vegan crust. Yes, it works. Yes, your vegan friends will scream.
FAQs
Can I freeze these mini pumpkin pies?
Yep. Freeze them without toppings, then thaw and add whipped cream like the classy human you are.
Do I have to use muffin tins?
Pretty much, unless you’re into pumpkin chaos splattered across a baking sheet.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely. They chill in the fridge like champs—up to 3 days.
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?
Sure, if you’re into extra work. It tastes great, but canned works perfectly and saves your sanity.
Why did my pies crack on top?
You probably overbaked them. Still edible. Still cute. Just call them “rustic.”
Can I use almond milk instead of evaporated milk?
Technically yes, but the filling won’t be as rich. Your pies might feel emotionally unsupported.
Can I skip the crust?
Sure—make crustless pumpkin pie bites. They’re basically tiny custards pretending to be pies.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your mini pumpkin pies that look expensive, taste amazing, and require minimal effort. Now go impress your family, your friends, your crush, or honestly… just yourself. You 100% earned a cozy treat today. Enjoy every bite, chef!
Printable Recipe Card
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