Imagine a warm, spiced pumpkin pie, rich and creamy, ready in just minutes. This delightful Crustless Pumpkin Pie in a Mug brings that dream to life, all cooked conveniently in your microwave. Whether you’re battling a sudden pumpkin pie craving, looking for a quick and healthy snack, or need a guilt-free dessert, this recipe is your ideal solution. Not only is it incredibly easy and fast, but it’s also a smart choice for those mindful of their diet, being Weight Watchers (WW) friendly and naturally gluten-free. It truly makes a fantastic dessert or a satisfying autumn-inspired snack.

Microwave Pumpkin Pie in a Cup gains immense popularity during the enchanting fall and holiday seasons, when pumpkins are at their peak. This particular recipe draws inspiration from my popular Crustless Pumpkin Pie, but with a crucial twist: it’s perfectly portioned for one and ready almost instantly. The motivation behind creating this mug version was simple – sometimes, you just don’t want the commitment of baking a whole pie, nor do you want the higher calorie count that comes with a traditional slice. This single-serving treat is a quick and effortless way to indulge in your favorite pumpkin spice flavors without any fuss. Plus, it’s an excellent method for utilizing that last bit of leftover pumpkin puree, requiring only half a cup!

The Magic of Microwave Mug Desserts

Mug desserts have revolutionized the way we enjoy sweet treats, offering unparalleled convenience and portion control. The allure lies in their simplicity: minimal ingredients, single-serving sizes, and lightning-fast cooking times, all within the confines of a single mug. This means less cleanup, less waste, and instant gratification for your sweet tooth. For those managing dietary goals, mug desserts like this crustless pumpkin pie are a godsend, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat without overindulging. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, study breaks, or whenever you need a quick pick-me-up that feels homemade but takes no time at all.

Why Go Crustless? Benefits of This Easy Pumpkin Pie

Embracing a “crustless” approach to pumpkin pie offers several compelling advantages, making this microwave mug recipe an even smarter choice. Firstly, eliminating the crust significantly reduces the overall calorie and carbohydrate count, making it a much healthier option, especially for those on Weight Watchers or similar health programs. A traditional pie crust can add substantial points, but by skipping it, you get to enjoy all the creamy, spiced goodness of pumpkin pie with less guilt. Secondly, going crustless inherently makes this recipe gluten-free, provided your other ingredients are also certified gluten-free. This is fantastic news for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease who often miss out on classic desserts. Lastly, the absence of a crust means less preparation time, fewer ingredients to measure, and a much quicker path from pantry to plate, perfectly aligning with the “in a mug” philosophy of speed and simplicity.

🥘 Ingredient Notes for Your Perfect Pumpkin Mug Pie

To create this irresistible Pumpkin Mug Pie, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each plays a vital role in achieving that classic pumpkin pie flavor and texture:

• Pumpkin Purée: This is unequivocally the star of our show, providing the iconic flavor and creamy base. It’s crucial to *use pure pumpkin purée and NOT pumpkin pie filling*. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that will throw off the balance of this recipe. You can opt for high-quality canned pumpkin purée for convenience, or for an even fresher taste, consider making your own homemade pumpkin puree.
• Egg: The egg serves as the essential binder in this microwave mug pie, helping the ingredients set and hold together, ensuring a firm yet creamy texture akin to traditional pumpkin pie.
• Fat-Free Evaporated Milk: Using evaporated milk is a key trick for achieving a lighter, airier result in pumpkin pies. Unlike regular milk, it’s concentrated, contributing to a wonderfully creamy consistency without adding excess fat. Importantly, evaporated milk is unsweetened, giving you full control over the sugar or sweetener levels in your recipe.
• Brown Sugar: This is our primary sweetener, infusing the mug pie with that rich, caramelized depth of flavor that is characteristic of classic pumpkin pie. Its moist texture also contributes to the overall creaminess.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: This pre-mixed blend is your shortcut to capturing all the warm, aromatic flavors of fall. It typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, delivering that unmistakable pumpkin pie taste without needing multiple spice jars. You can also make your own by combining these individual spices if preferred.
• Maple Syrup: I consistently incorporate maple syrup into my prize pumpkin pie recipes, including my crustless pumpkin pie, because it adds a superior depth of flavor that brown sugar alone cannot achieve. For a slightly lighter option, I recommend using light maple syrup.
• Vanilla Extract: A dash of vanilla extract is a must-have in nearly any dessert. It enhances and brightens all the other flavors, adding a subtle warmth and aromatic complexity that elevates the entire dish.

🔪 How to Make This Quick Crustless Mug Pumpkin Pie

Creating this single-serving crustless pumpkin pie is incredibly straightforward, perfect for when time is of the essence. Follow these simple steps for a warm and delicious treat:

Preparation: Begin by lightly spraying an 8-14 ounce microwave-safe mug with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the pie from sticking, making cleanup a breeze and ensuring your pie comes out perfectly.

Add all the measured ingredients – pumpkin purée, egg, fat-free evaporated milk, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract – directly into your prepared microwave-safe mug. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results.

Using a fork or a small whisk, mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are completely combined and smooth. Pay attention to scraping the bottom and sides of the mug to ensure no dry pockets of spice or sugar remain. Proper mixing is key for even cooking and a consistent texture.

Place the mug in the microwave and cook for approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 3 minutes. (This timing is based on a 1200-watt microwave; cooking times may vary based on your appliance’s wattage.)

Once cooked, and this is important, let the pie stand in the microwave or on the counter for at least 5 minutes. This resting period allows the residual heat to finish cooking and the pie to set properly. To check for doneness, carefully dig your spoon into the center of the mug. If any part of the pie still appears wet or runny, pop it back into the microwave for additional 15-second intervals until it is fully set. The maximum total cooking time should not exceed 3 minutes and 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.

*A perfectly cooked mug pumpkin pie will have a top that shows slight cracks, and the overall texture should be firm but still moist, much like a traditional baked pumpkin pie.

Allow your pumpkin pie to cool for at least 5 minutes before adding any toppings. This brief cooling period helps it firm up further. Then, generously top with light whipped cream or your favorite whipped topping, and a delicate sprinkle of cinnamon or extra pumpkin pie spice, if desired. This adds a lovely touch of flavor and presentation.

You can serve this delicious pie warm, which highlights its comforting spiced aroma, or cold, which many, including myself, prefer for a more traditional pumpkin pie experience. Both options are equally satisfying!

HINT: To expedite the cooling process if you prefer a cold pie immediately, simply pop the mug into the freezer for a few minutes!

Recipe Tips for a Perfect Pumpkin Pie in a Mug

Achieving the perfect microwave pumpkin pie in a mug is easy with a few key tips:

• Whisk Vigorously: Ensure all ingredients are whisked together very well. Any unmixed pockets of sugar or spices can lead to uneven cooking and a less desirable texture. A smooth, homogenous mixture is essential for a creamy pie.
• Understand Your Microwave: Every microwave oven is different, and cooking times can vary significantly based on wattage (mine is 1200 watts), age, and even the type of mug you use. Start with the suggested cooking time of 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 3 minutes. Always allow the pie to stand for at least 5 minutes after cooking. If, after resting, you find the center is still wet or runny with a spoon test, return it to the microwave for 15-second intervals. Be cautious not to exceed a total of 3 minutes and 30 seconds to prevent overcooking, which can result in a rubbery texture.
• Egg Alternatives: If you prefer to use egg whites for an even lighter version, you can substitute the whole egg for two egg whites. This can be a great way to reduce fat and cholesterol while maintaining the binding properties. *I often purchase liquid egg whites to avoid wasting yolks, or I use leftover egg yolks to make my delicious Low-fat Hollandaise sauce.
• Choose Your Vessel Wisely: This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be cooked in any microwave-safe container. While a standard mug works perfectly, you can also use a small bowl, a ramekin, or even double the recipe and use a larger meal mug. The key is to always spray the inside generously with non-stick cooking spray, regardless of the container, to prevent sticking.
• Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with toppings or add-ins. A tiny sprinkle of chopped pecans (if not strictly adhering to WW points), or a dash of nutmeg can add extra flair. For a richer flavor, a small amount of sugar-free caramel sauce can also be a delightful addition.

🌡️ Storing and Serving Your Pumpkin Pie in a Mug

One of the beauties of this single-serving dessert is how easy it is to store. If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely given how delicious it is!), you can store them directly in the mug. Simply cover the mug tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the pie to a sealed airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This makes it a great make-ahead option for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week. While it’s delightful warm, I personally find its flavors and textures truly shine when served chilled. A cold slice of pumpkin pie is a classic for a reason!

👪 Serving Size and Adjustments

This convenient recipe is specifically designed to make one generous serving, perfect for individual indulgence. However, it’s quite a substantial portion, so you could easily share it with someone else if you’re looking for a smaller treat. If you need more than one serving, perhaps for a small gathering or to prepare for several days, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Simply click on the serving number in the recipe card below and select your desired quantity. The ingredient amounts will automatically adjust, making it incredibly simple to scale up without any complicated calculations.

🔢 Weight Watchers Friendly: A Smart Choice at 6 WW Points

This easy Crustless Pumpkin Pie in a Mug is a fantastic option for anyone following the Weight Watchers program, coming in at a mere 6 WW points. In stark contrast, a typical homemade or store-bought slice of traditional pumpkin pie can easily set you back 14 WW points or more. Pumpkin pie cravings can be incredibly strong, especially during the fall season, and you don’t want to derail your progress or feel obligated to bake an entire pie just for a single craving. This mug pie offers a brilliant solution, allowing you to satisfy that desire for pumpkin pie flavor without the high point count or the fuss of traditional baking. You truly get all the comforting taste of classic pumpkin pie, but with significantly fewer points and without the hassle of baking a whole one from scratch!

For those looking to further reduce the points in this microwave pumpkin pie in a mug, consider replacing the brown sugar with a natural sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Additionally, if you’re open to using artificial sweeteners, you could opt for sugar-free maple syrup and a sugar replacement designed for baking to substitute for the brown sugar entirely, further lowering the carbohydrate and calorie count without sacrificing flavor.

Top Tip: Whipped Cream Selection

When it comes to topping your delicious pumpkin pie, a little light real whipped cream can make all the difference without adding significant points. I often reach for light whipped cream in a spray bottle because it’s incredibly convenient and efficient for portion control. Many brands offer light whipped cream options that are very Weight Watchers friendly, typically costing *only 1 point for a generous 4 tablespoons of whipped cream!* Brands like Dairyland and Gay Lea often provide excellent WW-friendly choices that allow you to enjoy that classic pie-and-whipped-cream combination without compromising your dietary goals. Always check the nutritional labels for specific point values, as they can vary by brand and product formulation.

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