Pumpkin Pie
Indulge in the Flavours of a Homemade Pumpkin Pie for the holidays
Per Serving
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 150 grams
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 2.5 grams
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar 2.5 grams
- 1/2 cup 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (113 grams)
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water 45-60 milliliters
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin puree (425 grams)
- 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk (396 grams)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2.5 grams
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1.25 grams
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1.25 grams
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 2.5 grams
Instructions
For the Pie Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts coming together. You may not need all 4 tablespoons; stop adding water when the dough holds together when pinched.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle (about 30 centimeters). Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish (about 23 centimeters), pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
- Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge of the pie dish and crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers to create a decorative edge.
- Hint: Preppy Kitchen has a great YouTube video showing how to make a pie crust. Watch here.
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any spills) and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) (about 175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once the pie has cooled, you can refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight before serving.
- Optionally, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
The Tradition of a Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a cherished tradition that encapsulates the essence of Thanksgiving in every bite. This humble yet delicious treat has a rich history and has become an integral part of American cuisine, especially during the fall season. In this article, we’ll delve into the tradition, how to store and serve it, the holidays it’s associated with, variations in ingredients, and more to guide you on your baking journey.
The origins
The roots of pumpkin pie can be traced back to Native American and early American settlers who learned to cultivate and prepare pumpkins from indigenous peoples. The original pumpkin pie was quite different from the sweet dessert we know today. Early recipes often involved hollowing out a pumpkin, filling it with milk, spices, and honey, and roasting it in the ashes of a fire. It wasn’t until the 17th century that recipes for pumpkin pie more closely resembled what we now consider traditional.
Ingredients and Preparation
A classic pumpkin pie consists of two main components: the pie crust and the pumpkin filling.
Pie Crust: The pie crust is traditionally made from a simple mixture of all-purpose flour, salt, sugar, and cold butter. Some bakers prefer to use shortening or a combination of butter and shortening for a flakier crust. The key to a perfect pie crust is keeping the ingredients cold and handling the dough with care. It’s worth noting that store-bought pie crusts are also an option for those looking to save time.
Pumpkin Filling: The heart of a pumpkin pie lies in its filling. Canned pumpkin puree is commonly used for convenience, although some purists opt to make their own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkins. The filling typically includes sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and an array of warm spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These spices impart the quintessential autumn flavor that we associate with pumpkin pie.
Variations of this traditional recipe
While the classic pumpkin pie recipe remains beloved, there are numerous variations and creative twists to explore:
- Crust Variations: Experiment with different types of crusts, like graham cracker or gingersnap crusts, for added flavour and texture.
- Toppings: Top your pumpkin pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted pecans, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence or maybe even vanilla ice cream.
- Spice Blends: Customize the spice blend to suit your taste. Some adventurous bakers incorporate cloves, allspice, or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
- Crust Designs: Get creative with your pie crust by adding decorative cutouts or lattice patterns on top.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: Explore vegan and gluten-free recipes using plant-based milk and alternative flours for those with dietary restrictions.
Holidays and Beyond: When to Serve Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is synonymous with autumn holidays, particularly Thanksgiving in the United States. It’s a must-have dessert on Thanksgiving tables across the country, symbolizing the harvest season and giving thanks for the bountiful crops. However, this delightful treat is not limited to just one holiday:
- Thanksgiving: Pumpkin pie is the star of the Thanksgiving dessert spread, often enjoyed alongside other classics like pecan pie and apple pie.
- Halloween: While not as common as other treats, pumpkin pie can certainly make an appearance at Halloween gatherings, serving as a warm and comforting contrast to all the candy.
- Christmas: Some families continue the tradition of serving pumpkin pie during Christmas dinners, pairing it with festive decorations and flavours.
- Autumn Celebrations: Pumpkin pie can be a delightful addition to any autumn celebration, whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or even a cozy evening by the fireplace.
Storing and Serving
Properly storing and serving pumpkin pie ensures that it remains fresh and delicious:
Storing: To store a baked pie, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it. It will keep well for up to three to four days. Unbaked pie crust dough can also be refrigerated for a day or frozen for a few months.
Serving: Pumpkin pie can be enjoyed cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed. If serving a chilled pie, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving for the best flavour and texture.
Conclusion
Pumpkin pie is a cherished tradition that brings warmth and comfort to the autumn season. Its rich history, diverse variations, and association with holidays make it a beloved dessert for gatherings with family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with unique twists, serving a homemade pie is a delightful way to celebrate the flavours and traditions of fall. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and savour the essence of autumn with a slice of this iconic dessert.
Looking to quench your thirst, try our Berry Juice recipe as well.
Wikipedia – Pumpkin Pie
