DESSERTS

Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie: 1 Spooky Treat

by basmer

8 de September de 2025

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Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a Halloween tradition that brings smiles and spooky fun to any table. I remember the first time I saw one – a perfectly carved pumpkin face peering out from a golden pastry crust. It was pure magic! Making a jack lantern pumpkin pie feels like bringing a bit of that Halloween enchantment into my own kitchen. The buttery pastry, the creamy, spiced pumpkin filling, and that adorable carved face – it’s a treat for the eyes and the taste buds. If you’re looking for a festive pumpkin dessert that kids will adore, this easy jack-o’-lantern pumpkin pie is it. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

This recipe is a Halloween showstopper! Here’s why you’ll be making it year after year:

Festive Design: The carved jack-o’-lantern faces make each pie a unique work of art.
Delicious Flavor: A perfectly spiced, creamy pumpkin filling encased in buttery, flaky pastry.
Kid-Friendly Fun: It’s an engaging activity to make these spooky mini pies with children.
Dietary Friendly: This vegetarian recipe is perfect for most holiday gatherings.
Versatile Decoration: Use this jack lantern pumpkin pie recipe as a guide for all your Halloween pumpkin pie ideas.
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare components in advance, making assembly easier on Halloween day.
Memorable Treat: It’s more than just dessert; it’s a fun, edible centerpiece that screams Halloween.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to get creative with your carved faces and spooky pumpkin pie decorations!

Ingredients for Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating your very own jack lantern pumpkin pie. The pastry is key for that perfect, buttery crust, so we’ll use a mix of flour, salt, and powdered sugar for tenderness. Cold butter is essential for flakiness, and a touch of vodka or ice water helps bring it all together without overworking. For the filling, we’re using smooth pumpkin puree and silken tofu for a creamy, dairy-free base. The blend of spices – ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves – gives it that classic warm, autumnal flavor that makes this Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie recipe so special.

480 g (4 cups) plain all-purpose flour – the base for our flaky pastry
1 ½ teaspoons salt – enhances all the flavors
60 g (½ cup) powdered sugar – adds a touch of sweetness and tenderness to the crust
280 g (2 ½ sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed – crucial for a flaky, buttery pastry
1 Tablespoon cold vodka (optional) – helps create a more tender crust
1 – 2 Tablespoons ice water – to bring the dough together
1 Tablespoon non-dairy milk for brushing – for a golden sheen on the pastry cutouts
425 g (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (not pie filling) – the star of our filling
260 g (9 oz) firm silken tofu – provides a smooth, creamy texture without dairy
150 g (¾ cup) sugar – for sweetness
80 ml (⅓ cup) maple syrup – adds depth of flavor and natural sweetness
40 g (4 Tbsp) cornstarch – to thicken the filling
½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
1 teaspoon ground ginger – for a warm, zesty kick
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – classic pumpkin pie spice
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds a cozy aroma
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves – a potent spice for depth
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional) – a surprising addition that enhances sweetness

How to Make Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

Let’s dive into creating these spooky delights! Making a jack lantern pumpkin pie is a fun process, and I’ve got all the tips to make it a success.

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons salt, and ½ cup powdered sugar. Add the 280g cold unsalted butter, cubed, and work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. If using, add the 1 Tablespoon cold vodka and then gradually add 1-2 Tablespoons ice water, just until a dough begins to form.
Step 2: Divide the dough into two discs – one about two-thirds of the dough and the other one-third. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period makes the dough easier to handle.
Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger disc of dough to fit your 8 tart shells. Gently press the dough into the tart pans, trimming any excess. Place the prepared tart shells in the freezer for about 20 minutes to firm up. Then, line them with parchment paper and pie weights (or dried beans/rice) and blind bake for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and paper, and bake for another 10 minutes until lightly golden. Trim the edges once slightly cooled.
Step 4: While the tart shells are baking, prepare the filling. In a blender or food processor, combine the 15 oz can pumpkin puree, 9 oz firm silken tofu, ¾ cup sugar, ⅓ cup maple syrup, 4 Tbsp cornstarch, ½ teaspoon salt, and all the spices: 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves (and black pepper, if using). Blend until perfectly smooth and creamy. The aroma of the spices is just heavenly!
Step 5: Carefully pour the smooth pumpkin filling into the pre-baked tart shells, filling them almost to the top. Place the filled pies back into the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight wobble in the center. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This is a crucial step for the filling to firm up properly, making it easier to add the carved faces.

Step 6: Once the pies are completely cool, it’s time for the fun part of this DIY Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie! Roll out the remaining smaller disc of dough thinly. Use a pumpkin-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes for your pie toppers. Place these shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for about 15 minutes. Once firm, use a small, sharp knife to carefully carve your jack-o’-lantern faces into the dough shapes.
Step 7: Brush the carved pastry faces with 1 Tablespoon non-dairy milk for a lovely golden-brown finish. Bake these adorable faces at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden and cooked through. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
Step 8: Once the pastry faces are cooled, gently place them on top of your chilled pumpkin pies. These pies will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat for any Halloween party.

Pro Tips for the Best Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

Want your Halloween pumpkin pies to be absolutely perfect? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference:

Always use pie pumpkins, not large carving pumpkins, for a richer, sweeter flavor in your jack lantern pumpkin pie. For more information on pumpkin varieties, check out this guide to pumpkin varieties for pie.
Don’t overwork the pastry dough; handle it as little as possible for the flakiest crust.
Chill the dough discs and the cut-out faces thoroughly before baking to prevent shrinking and ensure sharp carvings.
For an extra festive touch, you can bake extra pastry faces to serve as cookies alongside the pies.

What’s the secret to perfect Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie?

The real secret to a perfect jack lantern pumpkin pie lies in the pastry. Using cold butter and not overworking the dough creates incredibly flaky layers. For the filling, the combination of pumpkin puree and silken tofu ensures a wonderfully smooth and creamy texture.

Can I make Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the pastry dough and the filling a day in advance. Store the dough discs wrapped in plastic in the fridge, and keep the filling covered in an airtight container. Assemble and bake the pies closer to when you want to serve them for the best results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie?

A common pitfall is a soggy bottom crust; blind baking helps prevent this. Also, be careful not to overfill the pies, as the filling can bubble over. Finally, ensure your pies are completely cool before adding the carved pastry faces to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Best Ways to Serve Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

These adorable jack lantern pumpkin pies are a delight on their own, but serving them with a few simple touches really elevates the experience. For a classic pairing, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is always a winner. You could also serve them with a warm caramel sauce drizzled over the top, which complements the spiced pumpkin filling beautifully. Considering the festive nature of these pies, they pair wonderfully with other Halloween pumpkin pie ideas like a spiced apple cider or a warm mug of mulled wine. They are the perfect centerpiece for any fall gathering!

Nutrition Facts for Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown per serving for these festive jack lantern pumpkin pies. Each pie offers a delightful balance of flavors and a touch of holiday spirit.

Serving Size: 1 pie
Calories: 285
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 210mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Halloween pumpkin pie creation.

How to Store and Reheat Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

Once your delightful jack-o’-lantern pumpkin pie is baked and cooled, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and delicious. It’s best to let the pies cool completely on a wire rack at room temperature before storing them. Once cool, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save these festive treats for longer, they freeze beautifully! Wrap each individual pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, the best way to reheat is to thaw frozen pies overnight in the refrigerator. Then, you can gently warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This ensures your Halloween pumpkin pie stays wonderfully flaky and flavorful, perfect for any occasion!

Frequently Asked Questions About Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie

What is a jack-o’-lantern pumpkin pie?

A jack-o’-lantern pumpkin pie is a festive dessert where the top crust is shaped and carved to resemble a jack-o’-lantern’s face, making it a fun and spooky treat for Halloween. It typically features a classic spiced pumpkin filling inside a buttery pastry crust.

Can I use a regular carving pumpkin instead of a pie pumpkin?

While you *can* use a carving pumpkin, it’s not ideal. Carving pumpkins are bred for size and decoration, not flavor, and tend to have a more watery and less sweet taste. For the best flavor in your Halloween pumpkin pie ideas, always opt for pie pumpkins or sugar pumpkins, which have denser, sweeter flesh.

How do I get the best carved faces on my Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie?

The key to sharp, clear faces on your jack-o’-lantern pie with carved pumpkin pastry is to freeze the cut-out shapes for about 15 minutes before carving. This firms up the dough, making it much easier to create clean lines with a small, sharp knife. Don’t try to carve too deeply, as this can weaken the pastry.

What are some spooky pumpkin pie decorations I can add?

Beyond the carved faces, you can add other spooky pumpkin pie decorations! Consider using small cookie cutters to make ghost or bat shapes from leftover pastry. A dusting of powdered sugar through a stencil can create a cobweb effect, or you could even add a little food coloring to the pastry for some extra Halloween flair on your festive fall pumpkin pie.

Variations of Jack Lantern Pumpkin Pie You Can Try

While the classic jack-o’-lantern pumpkin pie is fantastic, don’t be afraid to get creative with these variations! For a gluten-free twist on this Halloween pumpkin pie, you can easily swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free blend in the pastry. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of orange zest to the filling for a brighter citrus note, or a pinch of cardamom for an extra layer of warmth. For a quicker approach, you can use pre-made pie crusts, though homemade is always best for that flaky texture. These creative pumpkin pie designs are perfect for making your Halloween celebration extra special!