Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups (Microwave, 3‑Min Ready) 🥧 – Bite-Size Thanksgiving Treats for Kids
These microwave-ready mini pumpkin pie cups are the perfect post-feast dessert for little ones - ready in minutes with pre-made crusts and festive toppings!
When you're juggling a post-Thanksgiving cleanup, these microwave mini pumpkin pies are your secret weapon. With pre-made crusts and store-bought filling, you can whip up a batch in minutes while keeping the mess to a minimum. The best part? They're sized perfectly for tiny hands and even easier to eat than traditional pie slices!
These mini pumpkin pie cups are the ideal solution for families needing a quick, kid-friendly dessert after a big meal. The microwave preparation means no waiting for an oven to preheat, and the individual serving size makes them perfect for little ones who might not finish a full slice. Plus, the festive presentation with whipped cream and cinnamon sugar adds a touch of holiday cheer.
What sets these apart is their convenience factor. With pre-made graham cracker crusts and canned pumpkin filling, you can have a dozen mini pies ready in under 10 minutes. They're also a great way to introduce kids to classic Thanksgiving flavors without the hassle of a full pie. The microwave method ensures perfectly cooked, warm pies every time.
These mini pies make an excellent addition to any Thanksgiving spread. They're perfect for serving to younger guests who might find traditional pie slices too large, or for parents who want a quick dessert option without the cleanup. The individual serving size also makes them great for handing out to guests as they leave the table.
From a practical standpoint, these mini pies are a game-changer. They require minimal ingredients, use common kitchen tools, and clean up easily. The microwave method eliminates the need for an oven, which is especially helpful when you're already using it for other post-dinner dishes. And with the festive toppings, they'll look just as special as a full-sized pie on your holiday table.
Ingredients
- 12 pre-made graham cracker pie crusts (mini muffin size)
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon cloves
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for topping)
- Mini candy corn pieces (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and flour until smooth. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
- Step 2: Fill the Crusts: Spoon the pumpkin mixture into each mini graham cracker crust, filling about 3/4 full. Make sure to distribute the filling evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Step 3: Microwave the Pies: Place the filled crusts in a microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the centers are just set. The exact time may vary depending on your microwave's power.
- Step 4: Add Toppings: Once cooled slightly, top each pie with a dollop of whipped cream. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and add a small candy corn piece for decoration.
Recipe Card
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups
Quick microwave pumpkin pie for kids
🛒 Ingredients
- - 12 pre-made graham cracker pie crusts (mini muffin size)
- - 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- - 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- - 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- - 1/4 teaspoon ginger
- - 1/8 teaspoon cloves
- - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- - 1 cup whipped cream
- - 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar
- - Mini candy corn pieces (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Filling: Whisk pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, spices, and flour until smooth.
💡 Use a rubber spatula to ensure no lumps remain.
Fill Crusts: Spoon mixture into 12 mini crusts, filling 3/4 full.
💡 Use a small spoon for precise pouring.
Microwave: Cook on high for 2-3 minutes until centers are set.
💡 Check with a toothpick - it should come out clean.
Add Toppings: Top with whipped cream, cinnamon sugar, and candy corn.
💡 Add toppings while pies are still warm for best adhesion.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree
Use canned pumpkin puree for best results. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling as it's already sweetened.
Substitutions: 1.5 cups mashed cooked pumpkin
Evaporated Milk
Adds richness without making the filling too runny. You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half.
Substitutions: Whole milk (1 cup), Half-and-half (1/2 cup milk + 1/2 cup cream)
Whipped Cream
Provides a light, sweet contrast to the spiced pumpkin filling. Can use store-bought or homemade.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt mixed with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tsp vanilla
Cinnamon Sugar
Adds a festive touch and enhances the pumpkin spices. Make your own by mixing 1/4 cup sugar with 1/2 tsp cinnamon.
Substitutions: Store-bought cinnamon sugar, 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon + 1/2 cup sugar
Pro Tips for Perfect Mini Pumpkin Pies
🕒 Time-Saving
Use pre-made crusts to cut down on prep time. Look for mini graham cracker crusts in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
🧹 Clean-Up
Microwave method eliminates oven cleanup. Simply discard the parchment paper after baking for easy clean-up.
🧼 Presentation
Add candy corn for a festive touch that kids will love. The colorful decorations make these pies perfect for holiday tables.
🔥 Don't Overcook
Check the pies at 2 minutes - overcooking can cause the filling to crack. The center should be just set but still slightly jiggly.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free graham cracker crusts for a safe option for celiac or gluten-sensitive eaters. Check labels for certified gluten-free status.
Spiced Vanilla Frosting
Replace whipped cream with spiced vanilla frosting for a richer topping. Mix 1/2 cup cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1/2 tsp cinnamon.
Mini Marshmallow Topping
Top with mini marshmallows for a fun twist. The marshmallows will melt slightly in the microwave for a gooey texture.
Chocolate Drizzle
Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the whipped cream for an extra special treat. Use a squeeze bottle for precise drizzling.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Warm apple cider in mason jars for a cozy fall pairing
- Vanilla ice cream for a classic pumpkin pie experience
- Mini cinnamon rolls for a complete dessert tray
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with hot spiced apple cider or a glass of sweet dessert wine like late harvest Riesling. For non-alcoholic options, try a vanilla latte or pumpkin spice coffee.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the pumpkin filling up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator. Fill the crusts just before microwaving to prevent the crusts from becoming soggy.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooled pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The whipped cream may weep slightly in the refrigerator.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked pies for up to 2 months. Fill crusts and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat individual pies in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Avoid over-reheating as this can dry out the crust.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use homemade graham cracker crusts?
A: Yes! Make mini crusts by pressing 1/2 teaspoon of graham cracker crumbs mixed with 1/4 teaspoon melted butter into each mini muffin tin. Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes before filling.
Q: Why did my crust get soggy?
A: This usually happens if the crusts are left in the oven too long. Remove the pies as soon as the center is just set. You can also pre-bake the crusts for 2 minutes before adding the filling.
Q: Can I make these in a conventional oven?
A: Yes! Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until the centers are just set. The microwave method is preferred for the quickest preparation.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from cracking?
A: Avoid overcooking! The center should still be slightly jiggly when you remove the pies from the oven. Let the pies cool completely before adding toppings.
Final Thoughts
These mini pumpkin pie cups are a game-changer for any family looking for a quick, kid-friendly dessert option. With their tiny size and festive presentation, they're perfect for little hands and easy to eat between bites of the main meal.
Whether you're serving them as part of a complete Thanksgiving meal or just looking for a fun fall treat, these microwave mini pies bring all the classic flavors without the hassle. The individual serving size makes them perfect for handing out to guests as they leave the table, and they're sure to become a holiday tradition in your home.
