As I stepped into the kitchen on a crisp autumn afternoon, the air was filled with the inviting scent of pumpkin and warm spices, instantly transporting me to cozy gatherings of the past. It was then I decided to elevate a classic Thanksgiving treat with a hint of sophistication: a Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel. This recipe melds tradition with indulgence, featuring a luxuriously creamy custard enriched by the depth of bourbon and nestled in a buttery crust.
What truly sets this pie apart is the spectacular topping — a crunchy streusel, crafted from browned butter and toasted pecans, which brings a delightful contrast of textures and flavors to every bite. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that garners compliments and warm smiles, making it the perfect sweet ending to any fall gathering. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a pie that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds)!
Why will you adore Bourbon Pumpkin Pie?
Irresistible flavor: The rich bourbon mingles perfectly with warm spices, creating a deep, comforting taste that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
Decadent topping: The salted brown butter pecan streusel adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the silky pumpkin filling.
Versatile delight: Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or simply indulging at home, this pie never fails to impress.
Elevated indulgence: This isn’t just pumpkin pie; it’s a sophisticated twist that will have your guests raving.
Simple steps: Follow our easy instructions for a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to showcase your kitchen prowess! Try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury.
Bourbon Pumpkin Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Filling
• Pumpkin Purée – The star of the show that provides rich pumpkin flavor; fresh or canned works beautifully!
• Brown Sugar – Adds a deep caramel sweetness that enhances the pumpkin.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger) – These warm spices elevate the pie’s comforting aroma and flavor profile.
• Salt – A pinch helps balance the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Eggs – Key for creating a rich, custardy texture.
• Evaporated Milk – Contributes creaminess and a smooth texture; for a twist, try half-and-half!
• Bourbon – Infuses depth and warmth; feel free to omit for a non-alcoholic treat!
For the Streusel Topping
• Butter – Browned to perfection, it brings a rich, nutty flavor to the streusel.
• Flour – Binds the streusel together, ensuring the ideal crunchy texture.
• Pecans – Adds delightful crunch; toasting enhances their flavor.
• Sea Salt – Just a touch balances sweetness and intensifies the flavors of the streusel.
This Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel is sure to be a hit at your next fall gathering!
How to Make Bourbon Pumpkin Pie
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial high temperature helps set the custard filling while baking.
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Whisk together eggs, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, bourbon, and evaporated milk in a large bowl until smooth. Ensure all ingredients are fully blended for a silky texture.
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Pour the filling into an unbaked pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. This will help create an even bake and a beautiful presentation.
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Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes. The pie should have a slight jiggle when done.
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Prepare the streusel: In a saucepan, brown the butter over medium heat until golden and nutty. This adds a rich flavor to your streusel.
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Mix in brown sugar, sea salt, flour, and chopped pecans until crumbly. Ensure it’s well combined for a delightful crunch!
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Sprinkle the streusel over the warm pie after the initial bake, then return it to the oven for 10 minutes until the topping is crisp and golden.
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Cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating. This allows flavors to meld and ensures a perfect slice.
Optional: Top with whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bourbon Pumpkin Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe! Customizing it can elevate your dessert experience even further.
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Nut Swap: Replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique twist. Both nuts add their distinctive flavor while maintaining that delightful crunch.
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Spice it Up: Add a hint of cayenne or black pepper to the spice mix for a surprising warmth that dances on your palate. It’s a delightful exploration of flavor.
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Chocolate Delight: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pie or sprinkle mini chocolate chips in the filling for a touch of sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
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Vegan Twist: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and replace evaporated milk with coconut milk for a creamy, plant-based version. No one will miss the dairy!
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Savory Streusel: Mix in some crumbled bacon or savory herbs like rosemary into your streusel for a unique sweet-and-savory flavor profile. This unexpected addition creates a delightful contrast.
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Fruit Infusion: Stir in some finely chopped apples or pears into the filling to add a fruity element that enhances the overall taste and texture. Each bite will surprise you!
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Chocolate-Bourbon Indulgence: Combine cocoa powder into the filling for a rich, chocolatey twist that pairs beautifully with the bourbon. It’s an indulgence worth sharing.
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Almond Extract: Substitute a teaspoon of almond extract for vanilla in the filling to add an aromatic twist. This subtle change beautifully elevates the flavor profile.
Make Ahead Options
These Bourbon Pumpkin Pies with Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours ahead of time by whisking together the eggs, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, and spices, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. The streusel can also be made ahead; simply brown the butter and mix in the other ingredients, storing it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling into your pie crust, top with the streusel, and bake according to the instructions. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy all the indulgence without the last-minute stress!
Expert Tips for Bourbon Pumpkin Pie
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Brown the Butter Properly: Ensure the butter for the streusel is adequately browned to enhance its nutty flavor; undercooking can result in a bland topping.
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Cool Completely: Let the pie cool entirely before refrigerating to achieve beautiful, clean slices for serving; this also helps the filling set perfectly.
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Reheat for Crispness: If frozen, reheat the pie at 300°F for about 10 minutes to restore the streusel’s crunchy texture; thawing alone won’t suffice.
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Check for Doneness: Avoid over-baking the custard; it should jiggle slightly in the center when done but not appear sloshy.
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Naturally Sweetened: Use fresh spices instead of pre-ground for a more pronounced flavor; they enhance the indulgence of your Bourbon Pumpkin Pie delight.
How to Store and Freeze Bourbon Pumpkin Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. This ensures the Bourbon Pumpkin Pie maintains its creamy texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices of pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the pie after freezing, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to revive the crunchy streusel topping.
Serving Tip: Always serve the pie chilled with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful finish to your indulgent treat.
What to Serve with Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel?
As the sweet aroma of fall wafts through your kitchen, creating the perfect spread to complement your pie makes every bite even more memorable.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a generous swirl adds a creamy touch that enhances the pie’s rich flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds a decadent layer of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the pie’s spiced custard.
- Chai Tea: The spice-infused warmth of chai complements the flavors of the pie, making each sip a cozy experience alongside your dessert.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight adds a delightful contrast of temperature and flavor, making the dessert truly indulgent.
- Coffee: Whether black or with a splash of cream, a warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly, balancing the sweetness of the pie with its robust flavors.
- Pecans on the Side: Simple toasted pecans echo the streusel topping and provide an extra crunch, enhancing the pie’s nutty elements.
For a classic finish, consider pairing it with a side of festive cheer in a glass, elevating the experience for your guests and family alike!
Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin purée should I use?
You can use either fresh pumpkin purée or canned. If using fresh, start by roasting a sugar pumpkin until tender, then scoop out the flesh and purée it until smooth. Canned purée is a convenient option and delivers excellent results, too!
How long can I store the Bourbon Pumpkin Pie?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze the pie or leftovers?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap slices of pie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. This will keep them safe from freezer burn for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat for the best texture.
What should I do if my pie filling turns out too runny?
If your filling seems too runny after baking, it may not have set properly. To prevent this, make sure to follow the baking times closely: start at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce to 350°F. The filling should be slightly jiggly but not liquid-like when done. If you notice it’s still too runny, consider baking it a little longer, checking every few minutes.
Is this pie safe for those with nut allergies?
This Bourbon Pumpkin Pie features pecans in the streusel, which are not safe for nut allergies. Consider using seed-based alternatives, such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, to create a similar crunchy texture without the nut sensitivity.
How do I achieve a perfectly crispy streusel topping?
To get that perfect crunch, be sure to brown the butter properly; it should be golden and have a nutty aroma before mixing in with the other streusel ingredients. Additionally, baking the streusel for 10 extra minutes at the end will help crisp it beautifully. After freezing, reheat at 300°F for about 10 minutes to restore that delightful crunch!
Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with Salted Brown Butter Pecan Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Whisk together eggs, pumpkin purée, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, bourbon, and evaporated milk in a large bowl until smooth.
- Pour the filling into an unbaked pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
- In a saucepan, brown the butter over medium heat until golden and nutty.
- Mix in brown sugar, sea salt, flour, and chopped pecans until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the streusel over the warm pie, then return it to the oven for 10 minutes until the topping is crisp and golden.
- Cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.