Pumpkin Pie

This homemade Pumpkin Pie recipe is the perfect treat for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving celebrations. With just 12 ingredients, it’s a quick and easy dessert that captures the essence of autumn. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply craving something sweet, this pie will delight your guests with its creamy filling and warm spices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a rich, comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, topped with whipped cream, or paired with ice cream for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or cozy family dinners during the fall season.
• Classic Comfort Food: Pumpkin pie is a timeless dessert that evokes warm memories of home and holiday gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious pumpkin pie, gather the necessary tools. Having everything at hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Pie dish
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly for a smooth pie filling.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough to create a perfectly shaped crust.
• Pie dish: A good quality pie dish ensures even baking and makes serving easier.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pumpkin Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by mixing the flour, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to your pie dish and trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, all-spice, and ground cloves until smooth.

Step 5: Fill the Crust and Bake

Pour the pumpkin filling into your prepared crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35–40 minutes or until set.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let your pumpkin pie cool on a wire rack. Serve it plain or with your favorite toppings like whipped cream!

Enjoy this delightful pumpkin pie as part of your fall festivities!

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie

Serving pumpkin pie is a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this classic dessert at your gatherings.

Classic with Whipped Cream

• Whipped Cream – Top your slice of pumpkin pie with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream for a traditional pairing.

Ice Cream Delight

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Serve warm pumpkin pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delicious contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Spiced Maple Syrup

• Maple Syrup Drizzle – A drizzle of spiced maple syrup can enhance the sweetness and add depth to every bite of your pumpkin pie.

Nutty Crunch

• Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the spices in the pie.

Coffee Pairing

• Brewed Coffee – Enjoy your pumpkin pie alongside a warm cup of coffee. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.

Festive Presentation

• Garnished Slices – Add a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for visual appeal and an extra hint of flavor when serving.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Pie

To make sure your pumpkin pie turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree – For the best flavor, consider roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkins instead of using canned puree.

• Chill Your Dough – Always chill your pie crust before baking. This helps prevent shrinking and ensures a flaky texture.

• Don’t Overmix Your Filling – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can introduce air, which may cause cracks during baking.

• Check for Doneness – Use a knife inserted into the center to check if it’s set. The filling should be firm but slightly jiggly in the middle.

• Cool Completely Before Serving – Let your pumpkin pie cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This will help it set properly and make for cleaner slices.

• Experiment with Spices – Adjust spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Pie

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin pie can elevate your dessert table. Here are some fantastic sides to consider.

1. Cranberry Sauce – The tartness of cranberry sauce complements the sweet, spiced flavor of pumpkin pie beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and brings out earthy flavors that balance sweet desserts.
3. Sweet Potato Mash – Creamy sweet potato mash offers a comforting side that harmonizes well with the warm spices in pumpkin pie.
4. Green Bean Casserole – This classic dish provides a savory contrast, making it an excellent addition to any Thanksgiving spread.
5. Stuffing/Dressing – Flavorful stuffing made with herbs creates a heartwarming side that pairs wonderfully with sweet desserts like pumpkin pie.
6. Apple Crisp – Another dessert option, apple crisp brings fruitiness and crunch, making it an enjoyable complement to pumpkin pie.
7. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses adds sophistication and pairs surprisingly well with the flavors of autumn desserts.
8. Mulled Wine – Serving mulled wine warms up your gathering while offering spiced notes that match perfectly with pumpkin pie’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin pie can be simple, but there are several common mistakes that can affect your results. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Using warm ingredients: Always use cold butter and cold water for the crust. This helps create a flaky texture. If your ingredients are warm, your crust may become tough.

• Overmixing the dough: When making the pie crust, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense crust. Aim for a crumbly texture before adding water.

• Not pre-baking the crust: A soggy bottom is a common issue. Pre-baking your pie crust helps ensure it stays crisp under the filling. Bake it for a few minutes before adding pumpkin filling.

• Skipping spices or using old ones: Fresh spices enhance the flavor of pumpkin pie significantly. Check expiration dates and use fresh spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for the best taste.

• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing your pie to cool completely before slicing is crucial. This lets the filling set properly, making it easier to cut clean slices.

• Not checking for doneness: Always test your pie before removing it from the oven. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pumpkin pie in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor absorption.

Freezing Pumpkin Pie

• Wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Pumpkin Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices in 30-second intervals until warm. This method is quick but may make the crust less crisp.

• Stovetop: Cover a skillet with foil and place on low heat. Warm slices gently, checking frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my pumpkin pie filling smoother?

To achieve a smooth consistency, blend all filling ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Using an electric mixer can help eliminate lumps.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes! Roasted and pureed fresh pumpkin works wonderfully as an alternative to canned puree, providing a fresher flavor.

What is the best way to serve pumpkin pie?

Pumpkin pie is delicious served chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top for extra indulgence.

Can I make this pumpkin pie recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for sweetened condensed milk and use dairy-free butter for the crust if needed.

Final Thoughts

This homemade pumpkin pie recipe is perfect for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving celebrations. Its rich flavors and creamy filling make it a beloved dessert. Feel free to customize with different spices or toppings like whipped cream or nuts. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating delicious memories!

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Pumpkin Pie

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately eight slices 1x

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Description

This homemade Pumpkin Pie is the quintessential dessert for autumn celebrations, especially Thanksgiving. With just 12 simple ingredients, this easy-to-follow recipe results in a creamy filling flavored with warm spices that will enchant your guests. Whether served plain or topped with whipped cream, this pie captures the essence of fall and creates lasting memories around the dinner table. Perfect for both experienced bakers and novices, it’s a must-have addition to your holiday dessert repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp granulated 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. To prepare the crust, combine flour, salt, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until dough forms. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface and transfer to a pie dish. Prick the bottom with a fork.
3. In another bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, salt, and spices until smooth.
4. Pour filling into prepared crust and bake for 15 minutes at high heat before reducing to 350°F (175°C) for an additional 35-40 minutes until set.
5. Allow pie to cool completely before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (103g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: not specified
• Trans Fat: not specified
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 60mg