Looking for a cozy, healthy autumn dessert that’s as easy as it is adorable? These Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups are the perfect solution. With warm spices, a creamy pumpkin filling, and flaky crusts all in a cute, portion-controlled bite, these treats are everything you want in a fall dessert. Whether you’re planning a holiday potluck, want a quick healthy pumpkin snack recipe, or need a kid-friendly option for Halloween, these healthy mini pumpkin pies are a total crowd-pleaser.
They also pair beautifully with other fall-friendly dishes like this creamy mushroom pasta or a comforting bowl of creamy polenta for a wholesome meal that screams autumn. Let’s dive into what makes this one of the best healthy autumn desserts you’ll bake this season.
Table of Contents
What Are Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups?
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups are individual-sized versions of the classic pumpkin pie, baked in a muffin tin for convenience and portability. They deliver all the flavor of traditional pumpkin pie—cinnamon, nutmeg, and that luscious pumpkin filling—without the hassle of slicing and serving. They’re also fantastic for portion control and offer a lighter take when made with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a fall recipes dessert easy enough for beginners and fun enough to make with kids.
Why These Mini Pumpkin Pies Are a Must-Try
These little pies are bite-sized and perfectly portioned. They’re easy to make with simple ingredients and offer a great option for anyone seeking healthy treats. Ideal for holiday parties, lunchboxes, or Halloween gatherings, they’re easy to customize for vegan Halloween treats or gluten-free diets. Looking for a savory but equally festive pairing? Try them alongside a sweet potato and chickpea curry for a cozy dinner-and-dessert combo.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups
Here’s what you’ll need to make a dozen perfect little pies.
For the crust:
- 1 box refrigerated pie crusts (usually includes 2 crusts)
- All-purpose flour (for rolling, optional)
For the pumpkin filling:
- 1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie mix)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream (dairy or coconut)
- Cinnamon dusting
- Crushed pecans or granola
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups
Begin by prepping the crusts. Roll out the refrigerated pie dough slightly to thin it. Using a 3 to 3.5-inch round cookie cutter or glass, cut out circles and gently press them into a greased muffin pan.
Next, mix the filling. In a bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, egg, brown sugar, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth.
Spoon the pumpkin mixture evenly into each pie crust, filling just below the top edge.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the pies cool in the muffin tin for 10–15 minutes before carefully removing them. Chill completely if desired.
Add whipped cream or your favorite garnish just before serving. Pro tip: Pair these sweet treats with protein-loaded breakfast hash browns for a hearty brunch.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make these healthy mini pumpkin pies, gather the following tools:
- Standard muffin tin (12-count)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter or round glass
- Cooling rack
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula
Tips for the Best Healthy Mini Pumpkin Pies
Don’t overfill the crusts. A slight gap at the top prevents overflow. Use real pumpkin purée and avoid pumpkin pie mix with added sugars and spices. Let them cool before removing to help maintain their shape. Chill overnight for deeper flavor and a firmer texture.
Looking for more healthy breakfast ideas to serve with these pies? Try toddler breakfast oatmeal cookies for an all-around morning treat.
Recipe Variations
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups are super adaptable. For a vegan option, use a vegan pie crust, swap the egg for a flax egg, and replace the cream with full-fat coconut milk. For gluten-free needs, use a GF-friendly pie crust or create almond flour cups. You can also use a mini tart pan for a more elegant look. Top with pumpkin seeds or coconut flakes for added crunch. For more festive flavors, pumpkin scones make a great addition to any autumn spread.
Serving Suggestions
These healthy mini pumpkin pies can be served warm with a dollop of whipped cream, chilled with cinnamon and granola, as a sweet side to brunch or tea, or packed into lunchboxes or picnic baskets. If you’re planning a Halloween brunch, serve alongside spooky mummy brownies or pumpkin cinnamon roll cake for a fun twist.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate the mini pies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap them individually and store for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the filling can cause cracks. Using too much dough in the muffin tins may result in undercooked crust. Skipping the cooling step could make removing them tricky. Not greasing the pan properly will make crusts stick.
Healthy Pumpkin Snack Recipes for Fall
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups are just the start. If you’re craving more healthy pumpkin snacks, check out pumpkin baked oatmeal for a cozy breakfast, pumpkin cottage cheese pancakes for a protein-packed morning, or coconut cream pie overnight oats that are great for meal prep.
FAQs About Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups
Can I make these in advance? Absolutely. They’re perfect for meal prepping and storing ahead.
Can I use store-bought pumpkin pie filling? You can, but adjust or skip the added spices and sugar.
Can kids help make them? Yes. Rolling dough, cutting circles, and spooning filling are all fun tasks for little hands.
How can I make these more festive? Use seasonal cookie cutters for decorative crust toppings or serve with Halloween-themed picks.
Why These Healthy Mini Pumpkin Pies Are Perfect for the Season
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups check every box: festive, flavorful, healthy, and easy to serve. Whether you’re prepping snacks for a Halloween gathering, a Friendsgiving potluck, or just want to enjoy a sweet and sensible treat with your coffee, these little pies deliver. And since they’re easy to customize, they’ll fit any dietary needs or preferences. Pair them with cottage cheese flatbread for a high-protein twist or enjoy them as a dessert after this vegetable biryani for a wholesome Indian-inspired dinner.
Try These Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups Today
Craving something festive, healthy, and easy to share? Give these Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups a try and let the fall flavor fill your kitchen. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to the blog for more delicious ideas all season long!
PrintDelicious and Healthy Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups for Fall
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups are adorable, portion-controlled fall desserts packed with warm spices and a creamy pumpkin filling. This healthier version is easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for gatherings, snacks, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 standard 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (225g) pure pumpkin purée
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup (120ml) evaporated milk (or almond milk)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Topping:
- Coconut whipped cream or dairy-free yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin pan or use paper liners.
- Prepare crusts: Roll out dough and cut 3.5–4 inch circles. Press into muffin cups to form mini crusts.
- Mix filling: Whisk pumpkin purée, egg, syrup, milk, spices, and salt until smooth.
- Fill and bake: Spoon filling into crusts 3/4 full. Bake 22–25 minutes until set and crust edges are golden.
- Cool and chill: Let cool 10 minutes, transfer to wire rack, then chill 1–2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use unsweetened pumpkin purée—avoid pie filling with added sugar.
- Make it vegan with a flax egg and coconut milk.
- Chill fully before adding whipped toppings for best results.
- Try an almond flour crust or skip the crust for a gluten-free version.
- To freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups, Healthy Pumpkin Snacks, Vegan Halloween Treats, Fall Dessert Recipes, Pumpkin Desserts