Pumpkin pie is a beloved fall dessert perfect for holiday get-togethers. If you want to treat your family, your friends, and yourself, then here are some tips to make it even better.

Most pumpkin pie recipes are fairly simple and create a pie that will likely satisfy. However, if you want to kick things up a notch and bake a pie that’s really going to impress, then you might want to make some easy adjustments. Whether you have your own recipe, or you’ve snagged one online, here are six tips that will help you make the perfect pie every time.

1. Pre-Bake the Crust

Many pumpkin pie recipes ask you to add the filling to an unbaked pie shell and bake it all together. While this can make an acceptable pie, the crust might not get perfectly browned and can end up a little soggy. Bake the crust first, then use a pie shield or aluminum foil to protect the edges when you bake the filling. The bottom will end up golden, crisp, and flaky, exactly how everyone likes it.

2. Use an Egg Wash

Another top tip for getting the perfect pumpkin pie crust is to use an egg wash before you bake it–this will give it that desirable golden-brown hue. Just whisk an egg, add a pinch of salt, and brush it lightly over the crust.

3. Spice It Up

When making pumpkin pie, load the filling up with spices. You can purchase a blend of pumpkin pie spice, or you can make your own by combining fresh ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice. Don’t be afraid to use more than the recipe calls for, just make sure you taste along the way. You can even sprinkle some spice into the dry ingredients for the crust before adding the liquid ingredients to give the entire pie an extra burst of flavour.

4. Substitute Brown Sugar

Some pumpkin pie recipes might call for using all white sugar but consider substituting in at least half brown sugar. Brown sugar has a richer, more caramel-like flavour that can really compliment your pumpkin pie spices and filling.

5. Avoid Overbaking

A perfectly done pumpkin pie will still be soft (but not liquid) in the centre and firmer around the edges. An overbaked pie will not only become too firm throughout, but it is also more likely to develop cracks on the surface. Try to take the pie out when a sunken-looking ring about four inches across begins to form in the middle, and it will finish setting as it cools.

6. Cover Up Any Imperfections

If a crack does develop in your pie while it cooks, or if checking the temperature leaves a hole in the middle, don’t worry: all imperfections can be fixed with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Swirl it on right before serving, and no one will be the wiser!

Nothing says fall like a pumpkin pie, and, with just a few little recipe tweaks, you’ll be a pro at making it. Use these six tips to bake up the perfect seasonal dessert and impress your loved ones.