Pumpkin Pie

This Pumpkin Pie recipe is the perfect addition to your fall gatherings and Thanksgiving celebrations. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. Plus, the simple preparation makes it an accessible treat for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or bringing a dish to share, this pie is sure to be a standout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and pumpkin creates a warm, inviting taste that captures the essence of autumn.
• Easy to Make: With just 12 ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this pie in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this pie suits any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this delightful dessert, making it a hit for gatherings.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the pie in advance and store it in the fridge, saving you time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious process of creating your pumpkin pie, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Whisk or electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Rolling pin: Helps create a perfectly rolled crust that fits your pie dish.
• 9-inch pie dish: Provides the right size for even baking and presentation.
• Whisk or electric mixer: Ensures that your filling is blended thoroughly for a uniform texture.

Ingredients

To make this delightful pumpkin pie, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp granulated white sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
• 4-6 tbsp cold water

For the Filling

• 15 oz pumpkin puree
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• pinch of all-spice
• pinch of ground cloves

How to Make Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly.
3. Gradually add cold water until dough forms. Shape into a disk.
4. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you roll out your chilled dough.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
2. Transfer to a 9-inch pie dish by gently placing it over the dish and pressing it down.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. In another mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and spices until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
3. Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) without opening the oven door; continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes or until set.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your pumpkin pie to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy this classic dessert with whipped cream or as is!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie

Serving pumpkin pie is a delightful way to bring warmth and comfort to your table, especially during fall gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your pumpkin pie experience.

Classic Whipped Cream

• Top your pumpkin pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a classic touch. The light, airy texture complements the creamy filling perfectly.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Serve a slice of warm pumpkin pie with vanilla ice cream on the side. The cold ice cream melts slightly, creating a delicious contrast with the warm pie.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice for an added layer of sweetness. This enhances the flavor profile and adds a beautiful visual appeal.

Spiced Nuts

• Sprinkle spiced pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor. The nutty taste pairs well with the spices in the pie.

Fresh Fruit Slices

• Add slices of fresh apples or pears on the side for a refreshing contrast. Their natural sweetness balances the richness of the pie.

Maple Syrup Glaze

• Brush a thin layer of maple syrup over the pie before serving for extra sweetness and a glossy finish. It beautifully complements the pumpkin flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Pie

Creating the perfect pumpkin pie involves careful attention to details. Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough: Always chill your pie crust dough before rolling it out. This helps maintain its structure and prevents shrinking during baking.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: For an authentic taste, consider using homemade pumpkin puree made from roasted pumpkins instead of canned.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix your filling just until combined. Overmixing can lead to cracks in your pie as it bakes.

• Pre-bake the Crust: Pre-baking your crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling ensures a crisp bottom and prevents sogginess.

• Check for Doneness: The center should be set but slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to cook as it cools.

• Cool Gradually: Allow your pumpkin pie to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. Rapid temperature changes can cause cracking.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Pie

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin pie can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness of the pie.
2. Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweet and creamy texture harmonizes perfectly with pumpkin flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, provide a savory contrast.
4. Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds offer crunch and freshness alongside dessert.
5. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp brings another layer of fall flavors, making it an excellent companion to pumpkin pie.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance your dessert table while adding interesting flavor combinations.
7. Pumpkin Soup: Start off with a light pumpkin soup for a cohesive meal centered around this autumn favorite.
8. Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette cleanses the palate after rich desserts like pumpkin pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your pumpkin pie even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Boldly skip chilling the dough: Not chilling the pie crust can lead to a tough texture. Always refrigerate your dough before rolling it out.
• Boldly overlook the egg temperature: Using cold eggs can affect the pie’s consistency. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Boldly ignore spice measurements: Too much or too little spice can alter the flavor profile. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
• Boldly rush the baking time: Underbaking can result in a runny filling. Keep an eye on the pie and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
• Boldly forget to let it cool: Cutting into the pie while it’s warm can cause it to lose shape. Let your pumpkin pie cool completely before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin pie in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring it’s well-protected from freezer burn.

Reheating Pumpkin Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making pumpkin pie that might help you:

How do I make my pumpkin pie filling smoother?

To achieve a smooth filling, blend your ingredients thoroughly and consider using a food processor or blender.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just cook and puree fresh pumpkin until it’s smooth before measuring out 15 oz for your recipe.

What spices should I use in my pumpkin pie?

Common spices include cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, all-spice, and ground cloves. Adjust them based on your preference!

Is there a vegan option for pumpkin pie?

Yes! Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use silken tofu as a binding agent for a creamy texture.

How long does homemade pumpkin pie last?

Homemade pumpkin pie lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer when properly stored.

Final Thoughts

This homemade pumpkin pie recipe is perfect for fall gatherings and offers delightful flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or experimenting with different spices to make it your own!

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Pumpkin Pie

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this delightful Pumpkin Pie recipe. Perfectly spiced and creamy, this dessert captures the essence of autumn and is sure to impress friends and family at your gatherings. Simple to prepare, this pie is great for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you serve it warm with whipped cream or chilled with a drizzle of caramel, this homemade pumpkin treat will be the star of your Thanksgiving table or any festive occasion. Embrace the harvest season and enjoy every slice of this classic dessert that brings comfort and joy to your holiday celebrations.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp granulated white sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold
• 4–6 tbsp cold water
• 15 oz pumpkin puree
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• pinch of all-spice
• pinch of ground cloves

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Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: Combine flour, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water to form dough. Shape into a disk and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer crust into dish.
4. In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and spices until smooth.
5. Pour filling into prepared crust. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) without opening the oven door and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until set.
6. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 70mg