There’s something magical about the aroma of a pumpkin pie baking in the oven. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly fall day, and for many, it’s the dessert centerpiece of holiday gatherings. This honey pumpkin pie takes that tradition and adds a delightful twist. By replacing some of the sugar with honey, you introduce a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the warm spices of the season.
I first stumbled upon the idea of using honey in pumpkin pie during a fall market visit. A local beekeeper shared how she used her honey in family recipes, and I was intrigued. That same day, I went home, experimented with my trusty pumpkin pie recipe, and discovered something incredible: the honey didn’t just sweeten the pie—it enhanced the flavor, giving it a subtle floral note and depth that traditional sugar can’t match. Since then, this has been my go-to recipe, loved by both kids and adults alike.
If you’re looking for a pie that stands out but still feels comforting and familiar, this honey pumpkin pie is the one. It’s the perfect balance of tradition and creativity, making it a must-have for your Thanksgiving dessert table or any cozy autumn night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced Sweetness: The natural sweetness of honey complements the pumpkin and spices without overpowering them. It’s a more nuanced flavor than traditional pumpkin pie.
- Creamy Perfection: With the addition of an extra egg yolk and evaporated milk, the texture is ultra-smooth and luscious. It practically melts in your mouth!
- Simple Ingredients: No need for specialty items—you probably already have everything you need in your pantry and fridge.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This pie tastes even better the next day, allowing you to prepare ahead of time and focus on other parts of your meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The unique honey flavor makes this pie stand out, and it’s always a hit at gatherings, often sparking conversations about what makes it so special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 heaping tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- Wet Ingredients:
- 15 ounces pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 extra egg yolk
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell
How to Make Honey Pumpkin Pie
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Starting at a higher temperature helps the crust set and develop a beautiful golden color while ensuring the filling begins to cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk these together to break up any lumps and ensure the spices are evenly distributed. The aroma of the spices alone will start to get you in the fall spirit!
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
Add the pumpkin puree to the dry mixture and stir until combined. Slowly drizzle in the honey, mixing until the texture is smooth and silky. The honey will make the mixture slightly glossy.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the two eggs and the additional yolk. Add them to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until incorporated. Finally, pour in the evaporated milk and whisk until the filling is fully blended. You’ll notice the mixture is creamy and pourable—a sign of a perfectly balanced filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell. To avoid spills, place the pie plate on a baking sheet before transferring it to the oven. Gently tap the pie plate on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles that might have formed.
Step 5: Bake at High Temperature
Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes. This step helps the filling begin to set while giving the crust a head start on becoming golden and flaky.
Step 6: Reduce the Heat and Finish Baking
After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for about 50-60 minutes. Halfway through, check the crust. If it’s browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield to prevent over-browning.
You’ll know the pie is done when the center jiggles slightly when shaken but no longer appears liquidy. Insert a knife about an inch from the center—if it comes out clean, your pie is ready.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least two hours. Cooling is essential for the filling to set properly. Resist the temptation to slice into it while it’s warm—you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly firm, sliceable pie if you wait.
Helpful Tips
- Pumpkin Puree Tips: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices. If you prefer homemade, roast and puree a sugar pumpkin, but be sure to drain excess moisture for the right consistency.
- Honey Selection: Go for a mild honey like clover or orange blossom to let the pumpkin and spices shine. Stronger honey varieties might overpower the pie’s flavor.
- Perfect Crust: For a flakier crust, chill the pie shell in the freezer for 10 minutes before pouring in the filling. This helps prevent sogginess.
Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Notes
This pie tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead for stress-free holiday planning.
Nutritional Information
Each slice contains approximately:
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 13g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze honey pumpkin pie?
Yes! Let the pie cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 4 days.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Yes, but honey adds a unique flavor and moisture. If needed, maple syrup is a good alternative.
Related Recipes
If you loved this honey pumpkin pie, try these:
Conclusion
Honey pumpkin pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a warm, nostalgic embrace that brings people together. The natural sweetness of honey elevates the traditional flavors, creating a pie that’s perfect for any fall or holiday occasion. Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!
Print
Honey Pumpkin Pie: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Dessert
Description
There’s something magical about the aroma of a pumpkin pie baking in the oven. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly fall day, and for many, it’s the dessert centerpiece of holiday gatherings. This honey pumpkin pie takes that tradition and adds a delightful twist. By replacing some of the sugar with honey, you introduce a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the warm spices of the season.
I first stumbled upon the idea of using honey in pumpkin pie during a fall market visit. A local beekeeper shared how she used her honey in family recipes, and I was intrigued. That same day, I went home, experimented with my trusty pumpkin pie recipe, and discovered something incredible: the honey didn’t just sweeten the pie—it enhanced the flavor, giving it a subtle floral note and depth that traditional sugar can’t match. Since then, this has been my go-to recipe, loved by both kids and adults alike.
If you’re looking for a pie that stands out but still feels comforting and familiar, this honey pumpkin pie is the one. It’s the perfect balance of tradition and creativity, making it a must-have for your Thanksgiving dessert table or any cozy autumn night.
Ingredients
-
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 heaping tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- Wet Ingredients:
- 15 ounces pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 whole eggs
- 1 extra egg yolk
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Starting at a higher temperature helps the crust set and develop a beautiful golden color while ensuring the filling begins to cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Whisk these together to break up any lumps and ensure the spices are evenly distributed. The aroma of the spices alone will start to get you in the fall spirit!
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
Add the pumpkin puree to the dry mixture and stir until combined. Slowly drizzle in the honey, mixing until the texture is smooth and silky. The honey will make the mixture slightly glossy.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the two eggs and the additional yolk. Add them to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until incorporated. Finally, pour in the evaporated milk and whisk until the filling is fully blended. You’ll notice the mixture is creamy and pourable—a sign of a perfectly balanced filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell. To avoid spills, place the pie plate on a baking sheet before transferring it to the oven. Gently tap the pie plate on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles that might have formed.
Step 5: Bake at High Temperature
Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes. This step helps the filling begin to set while giving the crust a head start on becoming golden and flaky.
Step 6: Reduce the Heat and Finish Baking
After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for about 50-60 minutes. Halfway through, check the crust. If it’s browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield to prevent over-browning.
You’ll know the pie is done when the center jiggles slightly when shaken but no longer appears liquidy. Insert a knife about an inch from the center—if it comes out clean, your pie is ready.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least two hours. Cooling is essential for the filling to set properly. Resist the temptation to slice into it while it’s warm—you’ll be rewarded with a perfectly firm, sliceable pie if you wait.
Notes
This pie tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make it a day ahead for stress-free holiday planning.
