Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines comfort and elegance, you’ll absolutely love this Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie. It’s the kind of pie that makes your kitchen smell like autumn, with warm spices wafting through the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table. I adore this recipe not just for its delicious flavor but also for how it brings people together—perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

This pie is truly special because it features a creamy pumpkin filling enhanced by mascarpone cheese, adding a delightful tang that balances perfectly with the sweetness. Plus, the whole-grain spelt crust gives it a unique twist that elevates this classic dessert to something extraordinary. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a rainy day, this Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll find whipping up this pie a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Everyone will love the creamy texture and cozy flavors; it’s a hit with both kids and adults!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance, making your holiday prep a little less hectic.
• Stunning Presentation: The swirls of mascarpone on top make this pie not only delicious but also beautiful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! They are all simple to find and contribute to the rich flavors of this Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie.

For the Crust

• 1 (9-inch) single spelt pie crust, or your favorite pie crust, prepared

For the Filling

• 1 cup (8 ounces; 227 grams) mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup packed (100 grams) light brown sugar
• 1-½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
• Pinch cloves
• Pinch coarse kosher salt
• 1 (15 ounce) can 100% pumpkin puree

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can tweak it to fit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add Some Crunch: Consider folding in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture.
• Spice It Up: If you love spices, feel free to add more cinnamon or try adding ginger for an extra kick.
• Swap Sweeteners: For a different flavor profile, use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
• Go Dairy-Free: Substitute mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter version.

How to Make Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a store-bought spelt pie crust, simply place it in your pie dish and set it aside. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make your own crust from scratch, now’s the time! A well-prepared crust provides a sturdy base for our delicious filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar. Beat them together until smooth—this creates that creamy texture we all love! Then, add in three of your four eggs along with vanilla extract. Mix until combined before gently folding in the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This step infuses our filling with all those warm autumn flavors!

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the luscious filling into your prepared crust. Before placing it in the oven, beat your remaining egg in a small bowl and brush it over the edges of the crust for that beautiful golden finish. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes until it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center. This ensures that every slice will be perfectly creamy!

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least two hours. This helps set everything nicely! When you’re ready to serve, swirl some additional mascarpone on top for decoration—it looks stunning and tastes divine! Enjoy every bite as you share this delightful treat with loved ones.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your pie turns out heavenly!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your mascarpone cheese and eggs to room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the filling, creating a creamy texture that’s essential for a luscious pie.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce too much air into the mixture, which may cause the pie to puff up during baking and then collapse.

• Check for Doneness: The pie is done when the edges are set but the center should still have a slight jiggle. This ensures that it stays creamy once cooled.

• Cool Gradually: After baking, let your pie cool at room temperature before refrigerating. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface.

• Make It Ahead of Time: This pie tastes even better after sitting for a day in the fridge. Preparing it a day early allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

Presenting your Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie can turn an ordinary dessert into an extraordinary centerpiece! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delectable treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A light dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a refreshing touch and complements the flavors of pumpkin and mascarpone beautifully.
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: Sprinkling some toasted nuts on top not only adds crunch but also brings a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider enhances the cozy fall flavors of your pie, making it a perfect accompaniment for any gathering.
• Maple-Glazed Carrots: These sweet and savory carrots add a lovely color contrast on your plate while balancing out the sweetness of the pie.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a savory element that contrasts nicely with the rich filling of your pumpkin pie.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the mascarpone, making every bite more exciting.

Enjoy your Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie with these thoughtful serving suggestions, and watch as it becomes an instant favorite at your holiday table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall without the stress of last-minute baking. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, ensuring it’s ready for your holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Wrap slices of pumpkin mascarpone pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Alternatively, freeze the whole pie by wrapping it well.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen pie slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until heated through.
• If reheating a whole pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover loosely with foil, warming for about 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mascarpone?

While mascarpone adds a unique creaminess and flavor to this pumpkin pie, you could substitute cream cheese for a similar texture. However, be mindful that it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

What makes Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie different from traditional pumpkin pie?

The addition of mascarpone cheese gives this pie a rich creaminess and a subtle tang that sets it apart from traditional pumpkin pies. This extra layer of flavor enhances the overall experience!

How long can I keep my Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie in the fridge?

Your homemade pumpkin mascarpone pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to cover it properly so it stays fresh!

Can I prepare Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this delicious pie up to two days before serving. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a slice of Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie with friends and family during the holidays. The creamy texture combined with warm spices creates a comforting dessert that’s sure to please everyone at your table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try it out—your taste buds will thank you!