Embrace the autumn spirit with a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin spice and Nutella into a delectable ice cream pie. This pumpkin spice Nutella ice cream pie recipe is a crowd-pleaser that embodies the cozy warmth and sweetness of the season, making it a perfect addition to your fall dessert repertoire. With just the right blend of spices and creamy textures, it promises to be a standout feature at any gathering.

Growing up, my family celebrated the arrival of autumn with a dessert night every weekend. My grandmother would try out different recipes, but my favorite was always her pumpkin spice Nutella creation. She had a knack for balancing the bold flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon with the rich, creamy Nutella. It was a treat we all looked forward to, and now I cherish passing this tradition on to my own kids. The nostalgia and warmth it brings back are the reasons I decided to share this recipe with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe beautifully integrates the comforting taste of pumpkin spice with the indulgent allure of Nutella. It’s a unique combination that brings a modern twist to classic autumn desserts. The simplicity of preparation makes it suitable even for novice cooks, while the complex flavors cater to sophisticated palates. Its rich, creamy consistency coupled with a hint of spice provides an unexpected pleasure in every bite. Moreover, the pie serves as an excellent make-ahead dessert, perfect for entertaining and wowing guests at your next dinner party.

Ingredients Notes

The cornerstone of this pie is, of course, the pumpkin spice and Nutella. When shopping for ingredients, opt for organic pumpkin puree for a fresher taste. For the crust, graham crackers or ginger snap cookies make a fantastic base. If you prefer a gluten-free option, simply substitute with gluten-free cookies. The dairy elements, such as heavy cream, bring a lovely richness to the pie, but you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Don’t forget the garnish—whipped cream and crushed nuts provide the perfect finishing touch.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Start by preparing the pie crust. Crush your chosen cookies into fine crumbs, mix with melted butter until it resembles wet sand, and press evenly into a pie dish. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the crust.

Step 2

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This will be the foundation for your ice cream filling, so make sure it is properly aerated to ensure a light texture.

Step 3

Incorporate the Nutella. Gently fold it into the whipped cream along with the pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. Avoid over-mixing to maintain volume.

Step 4

Pour the filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent ice crystals from forming in the freezer.

Step 5

Freeze the pie for at least 4 hours, or until firm. Before serving, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed nuts for an extra touch of elegance.

Storage Options

This ice cream pie can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks, covered tightly to preserve its flavor and texture. If you have leftovers, wrap them individually and freeze. To enjoy a slice later, allow it to thaw slightly at room temperature before serving. It is not recommended to keep the pie in the refrigerator, as it will lose its delightful ice cream texture and become too soft.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegan version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use a vegan chocolate spread instead of Nutella. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of caramel between the crust and ice cream for an extra sweet surprise. Add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the filling for an intriguing mocha twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the pumpkin spice or add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pie without a crust? Absolutely! Simply pour the filling into a lined pie dish and freeze as directed. The absence of a crust will make serving a bit more challenging, so consider using cupcake liners in a muffin tin for individual servings.

Is it possible to make this pie sugar-free? Yes, you can substitute the Nutella with a sugar-free chocolate hazelnut spread, and use a sugar substitute in the whipping cream. Ensure that your pumpkin puree also does not contain added sugars.

How do I serve this pie at a party without it melting? To keep the pie at its best during a party, serve it directly from the freezer and cut slices as needed. Use a chilled knife to make clean cuts, and consider placing the pie dish over a bed of ice to maintain its frozen state longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble the pumpkin spice Nutella ice cream pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie is perfect for making ahead! You can assemble the entire pie and freeze it for up to two weeks. Ensure it’s tightly covered with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent ice crystals from forming. For best results, let it soften slightly at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to make slicing easier.

What are some substitutions I can make for Nutella in the pie?

If you’re looking for a Nutella alternative, you can use any chocolate hazelnut spread. For a vegan option, try a vegan chocolate spread in a 1:1 ratio. Alternatively, you could use a combination of melted dark chocolate (about 6 ounces) mixed with 2 tablespoons of hazelnut butter for a similar flavor profile, but the texture will be slightly different.

How can I tell if the ice cream pie is frozen enough before serving?

The pie should be firm to the touch. If you gently press the top, it shouldn’t give way easily. The ideal internal temperature is around 0-10°F (-18 to -12°C). If it’s too soft, return it to the freezer for another hour or two. A fully frozen pie will hold its shape well when sliced.

What adjustments do I need to make if I want to double this recipe?

To double the recipe, simply double all the ingredient quantities. You may need a larger pie dish or two standard-sized dishes. The freezing time might increase slightly, so check for firmness after 4 hours and add more time if needed. Make sure your freezer has enough space to accommodate the larger pie(s).

What are the nutritional benefits of the pumpkin spice Nutella ice cream pie?

While this pie is a dessert, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Pumpkin puree is a good source of Vitamin A and fiber. Nutella provides some iron and calcium. The spices like cinnamon and nutmeg have antioxidant properties. However, it’s important to enjoy this pie in moderation as part of a balanced diet due to its sugar and fat content.

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Pumpkin Spice Nutella Ice Cream Pie Recipe

This delightful Pumpkin Spice Nutella Ice Cream Pie is the perfect treat for autumn, combining creamy Nutella and the warmth of pumpkin spice in a luscious dessert.

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Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 3

Total Time: 3 20

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

▢ 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs for the crust
▢ 1 cup Nutella
▢ 2 cups vanilla ice cream softened
▢ 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate to form a crust.
Spread Nutella evenly over the graham cracker crust.
In a separate bowl, mix softened ice cream with pumpkin spice until well combined.
Pour the ice cream mixture over the Nutella layer and smooth the top.
Freeze the pie for at least 3 hours before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, top the ice cream pie with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!

Pumpkin Spice Nutella Ice Cream Pie Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients Notes