01 -
Set the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C).
02 -
Spray a standard muffin pan lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
03 -
On a lightly floured surface, roll the pie crusts to 1/8-inch thickness. Using a 3½-inch round cookie cutter, cut out 18 circles and place each into the muffin pan cups, pressing dough around the edges gently.
04 -
Refrigerate the shaped crusts while preparing the filling to help maintain their shape.
05 -
In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, egg, evaporated milk, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and evenly blended without overmixing.
06 -
Remove the crusts from the refrigerator and evenly distribute the filling among the 18 crust-lined cups.
07 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
08 -
Allow pies to cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours to fully set.
09 -
Carefully remove the mini pies from the muffin pan and serve with optional toppings as desired.