Quick Thanksgiving Dessert Recipe: Pie Bites
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Introduction
When it comes to Thanksgiving, the food is just as important as the company. While traditional dishes like turkey and stuffing take center stage, Thanksgiving desserts are a close second! Pumpkin pie is often the star, but this year, why not try a twist on the classic? These quick Thanksgiving dessert recipe pie bites are an easy, bite-sized version of pumpkin pie that’s perfect for guests to grab and enjoy. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to make and require minimal prep time, making them ideal for busy holiday schedules!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) canned pumpkin (available on Amazon)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or use your favorite pastry)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: whipped cream or powdered sugar for garnish
🛒 Stock up on canned pumpkin for your holiday baking needs with this Amazon link.
🍽️ Get mini muffin tins for perfect pie bites from CJ Affiliate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin with a bit of cooking spray or butter to ensure the pies don’t stick.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until smooth. Add the canned pumpkin and continue to beat until fully combined and creamy.
Step 3: Cut and line the muffin tin
Roll out your refrigerated pie crust on a flat surface and use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut circles slightly larger than the muffin tin cups. Press each dough circle into a cup of the mini muffin tin, making sure the dough is snugly fitted.
Step 4: Add the filling
Spoon a generous tablespoon of the pumpkin filling into each dough-lined muffin cup, filling them almost to the top.
Step 5: Bake the pie bites
Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of the pastry for a golden, glossy finish. Bake the pie bites in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling has set.
Step 6: Cool and serve
Let the pie bites cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve as-is or garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Serving Tips
- Mini Treats: These pumpkin pie bites are perfect for a crowd. Make them in advance, and they’re easy to pass around during your Thanksgiving celebration.
- Decorating: For a festive touch, you can top them with cinnamon sugar or finely chopped pecans for some extra crunch and flavor.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and dough a day in advance, then assemble and bake the pie bites the day of your celebration. This saves time and effort while still delivering a fresh, homemade treat.
Conclusion
These quick Thanksgiving dessert recipe pie bites are sure to be a hit at your holiday table. They’re delicious, easy to make, and give you all the flavors of a traditional pumpkin pie without the hassle of slicing and serving. Perfect for those who love the flavors of Thanksgiving but want a more convenient, portable dessert option. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later on Pinterest and share with friends and family!
Looking for more festive recipes? Check out our Holiday Recipes and Quick Meals sections for more easy and delicious ideas to make your Thanksgiving extra special.