Is Pumpkin Pie Served Hot or Cold?

Pumpkin pie is one of those traditional desserts served over winter holidays, surrounded by family and friends. But one question that always comes to mind is, is pumpkin pie served hot or cold? 

While some people prefer the comfort of a warm slice of pie, it’s most commonly served cold or at room temperature.

Hello! I’m Michelle, a big pumpkin pie fanatic (and now pumpkin pie cheesecake – thanks, Aunt Lyndy!). Personally, I enjoy pumpkin pie when it’s chilled as my whipped topping stays firm and ready for consumption. But I understand the appeal of warm pumpkin pie, too.

If you just baked a tasty pumpkin pie and don’t know whether you should serve it hot or cold, you’re not alone. This is a common question, as not all pies are treated equally. For example, apple pie is best served warm while coconut cream is cold. What about pumpkin?

Let’s talk about pumpkin pie!

Do You Eat Pumpkin Pie Hot or Cold?

The simplest way to answer this question is both. Pumpkin pie can easily be served hot or cold, depending on personal preference. However, the results aren’t entirely the same.

A warm slice of pumpkin pie will create a decadent, creamy filling that is highly enjoyable to sink your teeth into. However, the toppings will become drippy. 

On the other hand, a cold slice of pumpkin pie will retain an undeniably delicious and slightly firm texture. The best part is that you can top it with crowd favorites like whipped cream or pumpkin spice ice cream without worrying about the infamous dripping toppings.

How Long Should Pumpkin Pie Cool Before Eating?

Although it’s a-okay to eat warm pumpkin pie, you should never slice it into a freshly baked pumpkin pie while it is still hot. Pumpkin pie needs to cool for at least 30 minutes, although it’s better to wait until the two-hour mark before slicing and serving.

Why?

Just because you baked your pumpkin pie for the recommended time doesn’t mean it’s “done” just yet. Pumpkin pie will continue to bake after it’s removed from the oven. This added “baking” time ensures the filling is thick and easy to cut into rather than gooey, messy, and melted.

How to Heat Up Pumpkin Pie?

Reheating pumpkin pie leftovers is another story. As long as the pie has been baked, cooled, and stored correctly in the refrigerator, you can reheat it to enjoy a warm slice of pie. Here’s how to do it.

Reheating a Single Slice of Pie

If you’re only reheating a single slice of pumpkin pie, don’t hesitate to toss it into the microwave for around 10 to 30 seconds, depending on how hot you want your pie to be. Then, you can eat it as-is or toss a scoop of vanilla ice cream and pecans on top for a tasty treat.

Reheating an Entire Pie

An entire pie likely won’t fit in your microwave, and it’s honestly not the best spot to reheat a whole pumpkin pie. The results simply won’t satisfy.

To reheat an entire pie, preheat your oven to 350F. Wrap the pie with aluminum foil to ensure you don’t accidentally burn the crust. Then, bake for about 35 minutes.

Does Pumpkin Pie Have to be Refrigerated?

Freshly baked pumpkin pie needs to be refrigerated once it has thoroughly cooled for a minimum of 30 minutes. If you try to store a pumpkin pie without cooling it first, you risk an undesirable soggy crust and “weeping” on the surface (pesky water droplets).

When you’re ready to consume, leave the pumpkin pie on the countertop for around 30 minutes to come back to room temperature. Or, heat it up for a warm slice (as described in the above section).

The exception to this rule is commercial pumpkin pie. Store-bought pumpkin pies have added preservatives to extend the shelf life. So, you won’t need to refrigerate until you’ve cut into the pie. 

FAQs

You can eat pumpkin pie however you please – cold, warm, or piping hot. Just make sure you don’t try to eat it right out of the oven; it’s not done cooking yet! Still curious about pies? Here are a few questions you won’t want to miss.

What do you serve with pumpkin pie?

The two most common toppings are vanilla ice cream and whipped topping. However, you can get more creative. For some spice, throw on some allspice and cayenne. For crunch, toss on some pecans and walnuts. If you’re craving sweets, a drizzle of maple syrup is a must.

How to eat pumpkin pie?

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to eating pumpkin pie. I like my pie in a bowl with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and tons of whipped cream. I eat it with a fork and start with the crust. How about you?

Is apple pie served hot or cold?

Apple pie is another type of pie that is loved hot and cold. However, it is more traditionally served warm – unlike its pumpkin pie cousin. Like pumpkin pie, though, apple pie should never be consumed directly out of the oven. 

Final Words

Cold pumpkin pie lovers and warm pumpkin pie enthusiasts unite – both serving methods are excellent. It really comes down to personal preference and how you want the texture to be. 

Do you prefer pumpkin pie served hot or cold?

About Michelle
I have been a lover of sweets since day one. This led me on a self-taught baking journey starting at the age of 13. It's been over 10 years since the start of my baking adventures, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, people rave about my delectable treats, whether it’s a chocolate cake or a strawberry crepe.

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  • Valerie

    When you keep saying you should “never” consume it right out of the oven, do you just mean that the consistency won’t be perfect or are you actually saying that it’s harmful or dangerous in some way, as in it will be undercooked and will make you sick??

    Reply