Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter.
Unroll your refrigerated pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface. Mix the tablespoon of sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the crusts.
Using a 3.5-inch round cookie cutter or drinking glass, cut out 12 circles from the dough.
Gently press each dough circle into the muffin cups, ensuring they're centered and pressed evenly against the bottom and sides. For a decorative touch, use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges of each mini crust.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until completely smooth and well combined.
Using a spoon or small measuring cup, carefully pour the pumpkin filling into each crust, filling them about ¾ full (approximately 2-3 tablespoons per cup).
Place the muffin tin on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You'll know they're done when the centers are just set with a slight jiggle and the edges of the crust are golden brown.
Allow the mini pies to cool in the muffin tin for 10 minutes, then carefully remove them to a wire rack to cool completely (about 20 more minutes).
While the pies cool, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form.
Once the mini pies are completely cool, top each with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg if desired.