Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

This gluten-free pumpkin pie is so simple with an easy gluten-free graham cracker crust. The filling is perfectly spiced and so rich and creamy. Top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat!
A photo of a slice of pumpkin pie with gluten-free graham cracker crust with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle of cinnamon on it.
A photo of a piece of gluten-free pumpkin pie on a plate with a fork and a bowl of whipped cream in the background.

Pumpkin pie is such a classic fall dessert and this gluten-free version is no different – just without all the gluten! This gluten-free pumpkin pie is made with a gluten-free graham cracker crust.

The filling is perfectly spiced with my favorite fall spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg!) and baked until rich and creamy.

This easy gluten-free pie comes together so quickly, too! Since we’re using a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust, there’s no rolling or chilling of dough necessary. Just, process the gluten-free graham crackers and mix together with some brown sugar, spices, and melted butter and bake. It’s so easy!

You’ll love this recipe because:

  • It’s simple. With a gluten-free graham cracker crust, there’s no need for the hassle of rolling or chilling dough. This recipe simplifies the pie-making process, making it accessible even for beginners.
  • It’s make-ahead friendly. Plan ahead by making this pie 1-2 days in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal preparation when entertaining.
  • It’s gluten-free. This pumpkin pie is entirely gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers and cornstarch, making it a perfect dessert option for those with celiac disease, dietary restrictions or gluten sensitivities.

Ingredients

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Ingredient Notes

  • Pumpkin puree – You want to use pure pumpkin puree for this recipe – NOT pumpkin pie filling which already has sugar and spices in it.
  • Gluten-free graham crackers – You can use store bought or homemade gluten-free graham crackers in this recipe to make the gluten-free graham cracker pie crust. I used Kinnikinnick Gluten Free S’moreables Graham Crackers in this recipe.
  • Spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg) – If you’d like, you can use pumpkin pie spice in the filling instead of the individual spices I have used in the recipe. Use 2 + 1/4 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice in this recipe.
  • Heavy cream – This adds richness to the filling. Don’t substitute with half and half or whole milk.
  • Eggs – I used large eggs in this recipe that are 50g each.
  • Cornstarch – Cornstarch is used as a thickener in the filling. If you need a cornstarch alternative, you can try arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
  • Vanilla extract – Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. If you don’t have it, vanilla bean paste can also be used.

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Handheld mixer or stand mixer
  • 9-inch pie dish

When working with gluten-free graham crackers for the crust, make sure to process them into fine crumbs for a uniform texture. A finer texture will result in a more cohesive and stable crust.

Step-by-Step instructions

This gluten-free pumpkin pie is the perfect way to celebrate Fall and it’s so easy to make with a gluten-free graham cracker crust. The below photos with matching steps are not the full recipe, but instead meant to help you see the recipe made at various stages so you can make this pumpkin pie perfectly every time!

For the ingredient list with measurements, full instructions, printable recipe, and additional notes, please scroll down to the recipe card.

A bowl of gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter.
Add the gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, salt and cinnamon to a glass mixing bowl. Mix until combined.
A pie tin with gluten-free graham cracker crust in it.
Press the gluten-free graham cracker crust mixture into a greased 9-inch pie tin. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden.
In a separate bowl, add the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, eggs, softened butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and salt.
A bowl of pumpkin pie filling.
Mix the ingredients together until smooth.
A gluten-free graham cracker crust filled with pumpkin pie filling ready for the oven.
Pour the pumpkin pie filling into the baked gluten-free graham cracker crust.
A gluten-free pumpkin pie with graham cracker crust after baking.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before serving.

Recipe FAQs

Are graham crackers gluten-free?

Typically no – you’ll want to use a store-bought gluten-free graham cracker for this recipe. Some of my favorites are Kinnikinnick S’moreables Gluten Free Graham Style Crackers and Pamela’s Honey Graham Crackers.

Can I use homemade graham crackers in this recipe?

Yes, you can use homemade graham crackers in this recipe. Just process them in the food processor until they are fine crumbs and measure out the amount you need for the crust.

I’m not gluten-free. Can I make this recipe with regular graham crackers?

Yes, you sure can! Just substitute the gluten-free graham crackers in this recipe for your favorite graham crackers.

Is pumpkin puree the same as pumpkin pie filling?

No, pumpkin puree is made with 100% pumpkin, whereas pumpkin pie filling already has spices and sugar added to it. For this recipe, you want to use 100% PURE pumpkin puree.

How do I know if my pumpkin pie is done baking?

There are a few ways to know if your pumpkin pie is done baking. When you nudge the pie it should have a slight jiggle with the center of the pie being just set. You can also take the internal temperature of the pie, which will be 175F when done. Also a knife or skewer inserted into the center of the pie will be mostly clean with some moist crumbs on it.

What are the best toppings for pumpkin pie?

I love to top my pumpkin pie with a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top. It’s light and fluffy, which offsets the rich pumpkin custard filling. Another favorite is marshmallow fluff topping that is torched after baking.

Can I make pumpkin pie in advance?

I find it best to make the pumpkin pie in advance 1-2 days. You’ll want to loosely cover the pie and store it in the refrigerator. I do find that the top sometimes gets condensation so I just dab that off with a towel before serving if need be.

How do I store a pumpkin pie?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You do not want to leave the pumpkin pie out at room temperature as it is made with eggs and milk which will spoil.

Can I freeze pumpkin pie?

You can freeze pumpkin pie after baking. Allow the pumpkin pie to fully cool after baking. Then place it on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about an hour. Then wrap in plastic wrap and place in a freezer safe bag or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The pie should stay good in the freezer for up to 1 month. Allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

A photo showing a piece of pumpkin pie with gluten-free graham cracker crust on a plate with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

expert tips

  • When pressing the graham cracker crust into the pie tin, pay attention to maintaining an even thickness across the bottom and up the sides. This ensures that the crust bakes uniformly and doesn’t become overly thick in some areas.
  • Keep a close eye on the pie during the final minutes of baking. The center should have a slight jiggle, but it shouldn’t be too liquidy. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking can result in a dry pie.
  • After baking, allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature for about an hour. Cooling helps the pie set properly, and it allows the flavors to meld. Avoid rushing this step, even if you’re eager to dive in.
  • For the perfect finishing touch, ensure your homemade whipped cream is well-chilled before topping the pie. It will hold its shape better and provide a delightful contrast to the creamy pumpkin filling.

Storage instructions

  • Storage: Leftover gluten-free pumpkin pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it’s covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors in the fridge. Remember that it contains eggs and dairy, so it’s essential to refrigerate promptly.
  • Freezer Option: If you want to freeze your pumpkin pie, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, place it on a baking sheet in the freezer until it’s solid, which usually takes about an hour. Once solid, wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should stay good in the freezer for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat/Thaw: To enjoy your frozen pumpkin pie, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Looking for more ways to use your pumpkin puree? Try these gluten-free recipes!

More gluten-free pie recipes you’ll love

An overhead photo of a slice of pumpkin pie with gluten free graham cracker crust and a dollop of whipped cream.

Did you make this recipe?

I’d love to know! Please rate it and leave a comment below. You can also share your pictures and tag @adashofmegnut on Instagram.

A photo of a slice of pumpkin pie with gluten-free graham cracker crust with a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle of cinnamon on it.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie

This gluten-free pumpkin pie is so simple with an easy gluten-free graham cracker crust. The filling is perfectly spiced and so rich and creamy. Top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat!
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 681kcal
Author: Megan

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 2 cups gluten-free graham crackers (from 1 box (8 oz))
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Mix together the gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, salt and cinnamon until completely mixed.
  • Press the crust mixture into the 9-inch pie tin, creating an even layer in the sides and bottom of the pie tin. Use your hands or the back of a measuring cup to ensure the crust is pressed into the pan.
  • Bake the crust at 375F for 8-10 minutes, until the graham cracker crust is fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside.
  • Combine the pumpkin puree, heavy cream, eggs, softened butter, brown sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and salt in a bowl.
  • Whisk the filling ingredients together until smooth.
  • Pour the filling into the crust. Bake in the oven at 375F for 50-60 minutes, until the center hardly jiggles and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The filling will firm up as it cools.
  • Cool the pie completely, about an hour, before topping with whipped cream and serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 681kcal | Carbohydrates: 86g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Cholesterol: 158mg | Sodium: 424mg | Potassium: 209mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 53g | Vitamin A: 10339IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 105mg | Iron: 3mg
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about megan

I’m Megan

A gluten-free food blogger from Chicago and lover of all things food, showing you gluten-free can be easy and delicious, too. Let’s make gluten-free stress free together! Read more…

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