Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of fall and brings a smile to everyone’s face, then this Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is just what you need. I have fond memories of sharing this delightful pie during family gatherings and cozy autumn evenings. The creamy pumpkin filling, perfectly spiced and enriched with mascarpone cheese, creates a luscious treat that’s hard to resist. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your loved ones.

What makes this recipe truly special is that it combines simplicity with elegance. The whole-grain Spelt Crust adds a unique flavor and texture that sets it apart from the usual pies. Plus, the beautiful swirl of mascarpone on top makes it look as good as it tastes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive celebration, this Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this pie comes together quickly, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Deliciously creamy: The addition of mascarpone gives the pie an extra layer of richness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
• Perfect for all occasions: Whether it’s a family dinner or holiday gathering, this pie fits right in at any table.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare this pie ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
• Sure to impress: The stunning presentation with the mascarpone swirl will wow your guests and leave them asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome! Each one plays a crucial role in creating the wonderful flavors and textures of your Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie.

For the Pie Filling

• 1 (9-inch) single spelt pie crust, or your favorite pie crust, prepared
• 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 things about this Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste.

• Add some zest: A little lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing twist.
• Change up the spices: Try adding ginger or cardamom for a different spice profile that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Nutty topping: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking for an added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute mascarpone with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter version that everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using store-bought crust, simply place it in your pie dish. If you’re making your own spelt crust, roll it out carefully and fit it into the dish. This step is essential because a well-prepared crust will hold all that delicious filling without getting soggy.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Then add three eggs (saving one egg for later), vanilla extract, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and pumpkin puree. Mixing until everything is well-combined ensures each slice has that signature flavor we love!

Step 3: Pour and Bake

Pour the creamy filling into your prepared crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. This slight jiggle allows for perfect texture once cooled! Keep an eye on it towards the end; if it starts browning too much on top, cover it loosely with foil.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie to cool completely before slicing. This cooling process helps develop those wonderful flavors even further! When ready to serve, you can swirl some additional mascarpone on top for visual flair—trust me; it’s worth it!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your pie turns out just right.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allowing mascarpone and eggs to come to room temperature helps create a smoother filling, ensuring that everything blends seamlessly for a creamy texture.

• Pre-bake your crust – To prevent a soggy bottom, pre-baking (or blind baking) your spelt crust for about 10 minutes will give it a head start. This step ensures the crust remains flaky and holds up against the moist filling.

• Don’t skip the spices – The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves adds depth to the flavor profile of your pie. Freshly grated nutmeg can make a significant difference, offering a more vibrant taste compared to pre-ground options.

• Check for doneness – Your pie is ready when the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to cracks, so keep an eye on it in the last few minutes!

• Let it cool completely – Allowing your pie to cool at room temperature before refrigerating helps it set properly and improves the overall flavor as it melds overnight.

How to Serve Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie

This delightful Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is not only delicious but also visually stunning! Presenting it beautifully can enhance your dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this lovely dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream – A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy finish that complements the rich flavors of the pie.

• Toasted Nuts – Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Side Dishes

• Cranberry Sauce – This tart and sweet condiment provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie, balancing flavors perfectly.

• Vanilla Ice Cream (Dairy-Free) – A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream creates a creamy complement to the warm spices in your pie.

• Fall Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad made with apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds provides freshness and brightness that cuts through the richness of dessert.

• Spiced Chai Tea – Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy pairing that enhances the warm spices in your pumpkin pie.

Enjoy crafting this seasonal delight as you gather around with friends and family; it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to get ahead of your holiday baking! You can easily store leftovers or even make the pie in advance for a stress-free dessert.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover pie in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, cover the pie with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze the pie, allow it to cool completely after baking.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or serve at room temperature.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different crust for the Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie?

Absolutely! While this recipe features a spelt crust, feel free to use your favorite pie crust. A graham cracker or almond flour crust would also work wonderfully.

How does the mascarpone enhance the Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie?

Mascarpone cheese adds a rich creaminess and a slight tang that beautifully balances the sweetness of pumpkin and spices. It elevates this pie into something truly special!

Can I make Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to achieve a similar texture.

What should I serve with Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie?

This pie pairs wonderfully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream. Both add a lovely contrast to its creamy filling!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Pumpkin Mascarpone Pie as much as I do! It’s not just about dessert; it’s about creating lovely moments with friends and family during the holidays. This recipe is special because it combines tradition with a delightful twist that will surely impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to try it out—happy baking!