It’s that time of year again, when the air is crisp, leaves are turning, and our thoughts turn to the creamy, dreamy deliciousness of Costco’s pumpkin pie! But now you can enjoy this treat at home with our copycat Costco Pumpkin Pie recipe!
But what if I told you that you could recreate this holiday season favorite right in your own kitchen? That’s right! We’re tackling a homemade pumpkin pie that rivals Costco’s own, complete with that buttery crust and holiday flavor we all know and love.
Ingredients
To recreate Costco’s pumpkin pie, we’ll need Dickinson pumpkins, known for their smooth custard-like texture, perfect for that scrumptious pumpkin mixture. Of course, if you can’t find Dickinsons, canned pumpkin works wonderfully too.
You’ll also need heavy cream for richness, whole eggs, and pumpkin pie spice for that signature flavor.
And let’s not forget about the pre-baked pie crust! Whether you’re making your butter pie crust from scratch or using a store-bought one, ensure it has that flaky crust that Costco’s pumpkin pie is famous for!
Next, let’s talk about the pumpkin puree. For the best results, ensure your pumpkin puree is not too watery; a thicker consistency means a stronger pumpkin flavor.
Sugar and vanilla extract are needed for your sweetness factor.
Finally, the spices! Pumpkin pie spice is a must, but feel free to play with the amounts to suit your taste. Always choose quality spices, too!
Step-by-Step Directions
Now onto the fun part – making the pie!
Start by preheating your oven. Lay out your pre-baked pie crust on a pie plate, ensuring the edges of the crust are beautifully crimped for that homemade touch.
If you’re using a homemade pie crust, remember to use parchment paper and pie weights to pre-bake it to golden perfection.
In a large bowl, whisk together your pumpkin mixture. This includes the pumpkin puree, sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice.
Combine your pumpkin mixture with heavy cream and whole eggs. Whisk these together until you have a smooth custard.
Pour the pumpkin filling into your crust. Now, here’s a pro tip: brush the edges of the crust with a beaten egg for that golden, glossy finish.
Bake your pie in the preheated oven until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Let it cool before slicing – the hardest part, I know!
Essential Kitchen Gear
Before we start mixing and baking, let’s make sure we have all the right tools on deck.
You’ll need a large mixing bowl. Make sure it’s big enough to whisk everything together without spilling.
Next, you’ll need a pie plate. Whether you choose glass, ceramic, or metal, ensure it’s deep enough to hold all that delicious pumpkin mixture.
And don’t forget the pie weights or, in a pinch, dried beans, which are essential for pre-baking your crust and preventing it from puffing up.
Lastly, gather these items as well: a whisk for beating your eggs and pumpkin mixture, a spatula for smoothing out the filling, and, of course, a good, sharp knife for slicing your pie masterpiece.
Optional, but nice to have, are a pastry brush for that beaten egg on the crust and plastic wrap for storing any leftovers.
Side Items and Main Meals
The Costco pumpkin pie recipe is a showstopper, but what about the rest of the meal? For sides, think about textures and flavors that complement, not compete.
A green bean casserole, with its creamy texture and crunchy topping, is a classic choice.
A side of roasted root vegetables can also add an earthy element to your meal.
For the main event, Thanksgiving dinner classics like turkey or ham are a no-brainer!
But, if you’re serving this pie at another time of year, a juicy herb-roasted chicken or even a warm, hearty beef stew can pair nicely.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the best pumpkin pie recipe can have its hiccups.
One common mistake is overbaking the pie, which can lead to cracks in your beautiful pumpkin mixture. To prevent this, keep an eye on your pie and remove it from the oven when the center is just set but still slightly wobbly.
Another thing that can happen is a soggy crust. The secret to a crispy, flaky crust is pre-baking it with pie weights and ensuring your pumpkin filling is not too watery. If you’re adding extra ingredients like cream cheese for a creamier texture, adjust your ingredient amounts accordingly.
Lastly, spice mistakes can make or break your pie. Too much nutmeg or cinnamon can overpower the delicate pumpkin flavor. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to taste. Remember, it’s easier to add more than to fix an overly spiced pie!
Diet-Friendly Versions
Now, for those with dietary restrictions, we’ve go you covered! Our Costco pumpkin pie recipe can be tweaked to suit your needs.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try a butter pie crust recipe that uses gluten-free flour.
For those cutting down on sugar, consider replacing some or all of the sugar with a sugar alternative.
Even the dairy can be swapped out for coconut milk to accommodate lactose intolerance.
These small changes can make the best pumpkin pie available to everyone at your Thanksgiving dinner table!
Storing and Enjoying Your Pie Later
Keep It Fresh
To store any leftovers, wrap your Costco pumpkin pie in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It can be stored for up to 3 days.
Warm It Up
Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 300°F. Place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat it just until it’s warmed through. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.
Freezing for Later
If you’ve made a lot of pie (and let’s face it, with a Costco pumpkin pie recipe, you’re likely to have leftovers!), freezing is a great option. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator and then either eat it cold, set it on the counter to get to room temperature, or reheat it in the oven for the best results.
Now it’s your turn! Try out this amazing recipe, get creative with it, and don’t forget to share your experiences. Did you try any of the variations? How did your family and friends react to your delicious pie?
And if you loved this, stay tuned! We’re always sharing new delicious and easy recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions About Costco Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie from Costco is a festive favorite, known for its delicious taste and incredible value. Let’s delve into some common queries about this popular dessert.
What Does Costco Put in Their Pumpkin Pie?
- Pumpkin Puree: The star of the show, providing that classic pumpkin taste.
- Sugar: For sweetness, balancing the pumpkin’s natural flavors.
- Eggs: Adding structure and richness to the pie.
- Spices: A blend of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt, creating that warm, spiced profile.
- Milk and Cream: For a creamy, indulgent texture.
The pie crust is typically made from flour, butter, and shortening, giving it a flaky and buttery base.
Are Costco Pumpkin Pies Pre-Cooked?
Yes, Costco pumpkin pies are pre-cooked. This means you can enjoy them right away or after a quick warming up. It’s perfect for those who want a hassle-free dessert option.
Is Costco’s Pumpkin Pie Healthy?
- Nutrient-Rich Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a good source of vitamins and fiber.
- Calorie Consideration: The pie is rich in sugar and fats, so it’s more of an occasional treat than a health food.
- Portion Control: Enjoying it in moderation can be part of a balanced diet.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 323 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.8 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 31 mg |
| Sodium | 323 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 46.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g |
| Sugars | 30.9 g |
| Protein | 6.9 g |
| Vitamin A | 488 IU |
| Vitamin C | 1.2 mg |
| Calcium | 56 mg |
| Iron | 1.6 mg |
How Many Days Will Costco Pumpkin Pie Last?
- Refrigerated: It can last up to 2-3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: For longer storage, freeze it for up to a month.
Why Are Costco Pumpkin Pies So Cheap?
- Bulk Buying: Costco purchases ingredients in large quantities, reducing costs.
- Efficient Production: Their streamlined baking process cuts down on labor and time.
- Membership Model: Costco offsets some costs through its membership fees, allowing for lower prices on items like pumpkin pie.
Costco Pumpkin Pie Recipe Copycat Better and Easy
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutesThis copycat Costco pumpkin pie recipe brings the essence of Costco’s beloved pie to your kitchen. It’s a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dinner or any festive occasion during this time of year.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
2 cups pumpkin puree (preferably Dickinson pumpkins)
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ teaspoons homemade pumpkin pie spice (or store-bought)
1 cup heavy cream
¼ cup milk
2 whole eggs plus 1 yolk, beaten
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- Prep the Crust:
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add butter and blend with a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together. Flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- After chilling, roll out the dough on a floured surface. Fit it into a 9-inch pie plate, trimming any excess. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix well.
- Stir in the heavy cream, milk, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the chilled pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the pie to set.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve at room temperature or chilled. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Crust Perfection: For a flakier crust, keep all your ingredients as cold as possible. Also, avoid overworking the dough.
- Smooth Filling: Ensure your pumpkin puree and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth custard-like filling.
- Avoid Cracks: To prevent cracks, avoid overbaking. The center should be slightly wobbly as it will continue to cook and set as it cools.