Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel. This pie is not just any ordinary pumpkin pie; it’s a delightful twist on a classic that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with a buttery pecan topping. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even just to treat yourself on a busy weeknight.
What makes this recipe so special is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The creamy pumpkin filling pairs wonderfully with the crunchy, caramelized pecan streusel, creating a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular feature at your celebrations!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this pie comes together in no time.
- Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds—it’s that good!
- Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the pie in advance, freeing up your time on the big day.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of bourbon and spices elevates traditional pumpkin pie to new heights.
- Stunning presentation: The salted brown butter pecan streusel adds an impressive touch to your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these treasures to create your Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel:
For the Pie Filling
- 1 pie crust (9-inches; unbaked)
- 2 eggs
- 1 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup pecans (coarsely chopped)
Variations
This Bourbon Pumpkin Pie recipe is flexible and allows for some fun variations! Here are a few ideas if you want to switch things up:
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter version.
- Add some spice: Feel free to throw in some cloves or allspice for an extra flavor kick.
- Change the nuts: If pecans aren’t your favorite, walnuts or hazelnuts work beautifully too!
- Sweeten it differently: Try using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
How to Make Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, bourbon, and evaporated milk until smooth. Mixing these ingredients well is essential as it helps blend all those wonderful flavors together seamlessly.
Step 3: Pour into the Crust
Gently pour the filling mixture into your unbaked pie crust. It’s okay if it fills right to the top—the filling will settle as it bakes. Making sure you have an even layer helps achieve consistent baking throughout.
Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s browned and has a nutty aroma—this is where the magic happens! Remove from heat and stir in brown sugar, flour, and sea salt until crumbly. Fold in the coarsely chopped pecans for that delicious crunch.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle your streusel topping generously over the pumpkin filling. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until set. Letting it cool slightly allows those flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Slice up your Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel and enjoy each bite! It’s perfect on its own or served with whipped cream if you like an extra touch of sweetness. Happy baking!
Pro Tips for Making Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel
Baking the perfect pumpkin pie can be a joyous experience, and these tips will help you create a masterpiece that will impress everyone at your gathering!
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Chill the Pie Crust: Before rolling out your pie crust, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps to keep the butter solid, resulting in a flakier texture when baked.
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Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: If possible, opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. It enhances the flavor and often has a richer texture that elevates your pie.
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Don’t Overmix: When mixing your filling, be careful not to overmix. Stir just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can lead to cracks in your finished pie.
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Bake on a Lower Rack: Position your pie on the lower rack of the oven. This allows for more even baking and helps prevent over-browning of the crust while ensuring the filling cooks thoroughly.
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Let It Cool Completely: After baking, allow your pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling, making for cleaner slices and better presentation.
How to Serve Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel
Presenting your bourbon pumpkin pie beautifully can make all the difference at your holiday table. Here are some creative serving ideas that will surely delight your guests!
Garnishes
- Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a delightful touch and complements the flavors of the pie without overpowering them.
- Toasted Pecans: Scatter some toasted pecans on top for an added crunch that ties back to the streusel and enhances its nuttiness.
- Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top before serving gives an aromatic kick that signals holiday right away!
Side Dishes
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of the pie, making for a harmonious meal.
- Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans tossed with toasted almonds offer brightness and crunch that pairs perfectly with rich desserts like pumpkin pie.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish adds another layer of sweetness while maintaining seasonal flavors, creating a comforting table spread.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the pie, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite.
With these tips and serving ideas, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel that will be cherished by family and friends alike! Enjoy this delightful dessert as you celebrate togetherness this holiday season.

Make Ahead and Storage
This Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the day of your gathering.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
- Label the container with the date for easy reference.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the pie or slices on a baking sheet.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.
Can I make Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel without bourbon?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with an additional tablespoon of vanilla extract for a delicious flavor boost.
How long does Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel last in the fridge?
When stored properly, this pie lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure it’s well-covered to maintain freshness!
What can I use instead of evaporated milk in this recipe?
You can use coconut milk or almond milk as an excellent dairy-free alternative to evaporated milk, ensuring that all guests can enjoy this treat!
Can I add more spices to my Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel?
Certainly! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cloves or cardamom can give your pie an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Bourbon Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together. I hope you find joy in making this special recipe and that it becomes a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience – I’d love to hear how it turns out!
Pumpkin Pie with a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel
Indulge in a delightful twist on a classic dessert with this Pumpkin Pie featuring a Salted Brown Butter Pecan Streusel. This exquisite treat combines creamy pumpkin filling with a nutty, caramelized topping, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this pie embodies the essence of autumn with its warm spices and comforting sweetness. Easy to prepare and make-ahead friendly, it’s an ideal addition to any festive table. Serve it warm or chilled, and watch everyone come back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 2 eggs
- 1 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fruit juice
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk or plant-based alternative
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar for streusel
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour for streusel
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt for streusel
- 1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, fruit juice, and evaporated milk until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust.
- For the streusel, melt butter in a saucepan until browned; then stir in brown sugar, flour, and sea salt until crumbly. Add pecans.
- Sprinkle streusel over the pumpkin filling and bake for about 50 minutes or until set.
- Allow cooling slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 125g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
