Grandma’s magical Layered Custard Pumpkin Pie recipe bakes into three distinct, incredibly light, and delicate custard-like layers. Also known in our family as “Grandpa’s Favorite Pumpkin Pie,” this recipe is a family tradition.
Not sure why, but…
At Thanksgiving, we always have two kinds of pumpkin pie.
RELATED POST: Pumpkin Pie Mini-Tarts
One is the traditional recipe on the back of Libby’s can of pumpkin and the other is my grandma’s magical Layered Custard Pumpkin Pie. Only a couple of spoonfuls of pumpkin are required.
FAQ about this layered Pumpkin Pie recipe:
It is. Technically, a sponge pie is a common name for a custard pie that separates into clearly defined layers.
Lemon sponge pies seem to be the most commonly known variety. We prefer this recipe made with pumpkin puree or butternut squash puree.
This pie is known as “squash pie” in our family because of my tendency to substitute mashed butternut squash for the pumpkin. (It’s a little milder.) Although guests are sometimes put off by the name, it is full of memories and good flavors in our family, so we would rather not share anyway.
Only 2-3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree are required. If you just made pumpkin muffins or cake and don’t know what to do with the leftover pumpkin, this is it.
On the other hand, if you just opened a can of pumpkin and now have lots of pumpkin puree leftover, check out this post about Three Things To Do with Less than 1/4 cup of Pumpkin.
Yes. I used to always make it with skim milk. BUT. To no one’s surprise, it’s much better when made with 2% or whole milk.
My grandma never pre-baked the crust. However, most custard pies are better (crispier and flakier) when the crust has been partially baked beforehand. This recipe for A Flaky Pie Crust Made with Greek Yogurt is my favorite.
How to make a “Layered Custard Pumpkin Pie”
More recipes for holiday pies:
Pumpkin Pie Mini Tarts
These Pumpkin Pie Mini-Tarts are easy to carry to Grandma's house or put them on your dessert buffet. The small size makes them easy to grab and eat.
Browned-Butter Pecan Pie
Pecan pie containing browned butter--the secret ingredient in this holiday pie.
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Paula
Grandma's Magic Layered Custard Pumpkin Pie
A non-traditional pumpkin pie flavored with only 2-3 tablespoons pumpkin pureé. As the pie bakes, it will magically turn into 3 distinct custard-like layers.
Ingredients
- 2 egg whites
- 2-3 tablespoons pumpkin pureé (or baby food butternut squash)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 egg yolks
- 2/3 c. sugar
- dash of salt
- 1/8 t. cinnamon
- generous pinch of nutmeg
- generous pinch of allspice
- 1-1/2 c. milk (only use 1 cup for 8-inch crust)
- 9-inch partially-baked pie crust
Instructions
- Whip egg whites until stiff and set aside.
- Combine pumpkin, flour, egg yolks, sugar, salt and spices. Blend milk into this mixture adjusting amount according to the size of pie pan you are using. 1 c. is plenty for an 8-inch pie but you may need more for a 9-inch pie plate.
- Mix in egg whites carefully. Mixture should be completely blended but no more. (I use a hand mixer.)
- Pour into partially-baked pie shell. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes. Pie should be set with the slightest jiggle when done. The top should be a deep golden brown. If cooked too long, the filling will pull away from the crust as it cools.
- Allow to cool and refrigerate before serving. If the layers are distinct when you slice it, you did it right!
Notes
Regarding the crust:
Use a store-bought crust or your favorite recipe for the pie shell. Bake it lightly before adding the pie crust. By that I mean, the crust should be baked but not browned. To be honest, Grandma did not bake hers before adding the filling. I've tried it both ways and prefer a pre-baked crust.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 8 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 217Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 145mgCarbohydrates: 33gFiber: 1gSugar: 18gProtein: 4g
Updated April 2020.
Gina
Thursday 6th of August 2009
I make this pie - it's my favorite! The recipe my mom gave me is pretty similar. I usually use acorn or butternut squash.
Romaine
Thursday 6th of August 2009
Hey Gina, Good to hear from you. Didn't know you also made this pie. Can't wait to see you next week.