Classic Pumpkin Pie Recipe: A Slice of Autumn Comfort

Introduction:

Pumpkin pie is a quintessential fall dessert that captures the warm, cozy flavors of the season. With its silky smooth filling and aromatic spices, it's a must-have at Thanksgiving dinners and autumn gatherings. In this article, we'll guide you through a timeless homemade pumpkin pie recipe that will fill your home with the delightful scents of cinnamon and nutmeg.

SOURCE

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the Pumpkin Pie Filling:

1 3/4 cups canned pumpkin puree (or homemade)

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1 1/4 cups evaporated milk (or half-and-half)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

For the Pie Crust:

Prepare the Crust:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar.

Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients.

Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Add Ice Water:

Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together when squeezed with your fingers.

Be careful not to overmix. The dough should be moist but not sticky.

Shape and Chill:

Gather the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disc.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to rest.

For the Pumpkin Pie Filling:

Preheat Your Oven:Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roll Out the Crust:

On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pie crust into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish.

Carefully transfer the crust to the pie dish and trim any excess overhang.

Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt.

Add the eggs and beat until well combined.

Stir in the evaporated milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the filling is smooth and uniform.

Fill the Pie:

Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust.

Bake the Pie:

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.

Reduce Heat and Continue Baking:

After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Cool and Serve:

Allow the pumpkin pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

For extra indulgence, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Usage Tips:

If you prefer a homemade pie crust, you can make your own from scratch using the instructions provided in this recipe.

To create decorative edges on your pie crust, you can crimp the edges with a fork or use a pie crust shield or aluminum foil to protect the crust from over-browning during baking.

Conclusion:

This classic homemade pumpkin pie recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of autumn and create a warm, comforting dessert that will please family and friends alike. Enjoy the delightful taste of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in every bite of this seasonal favorite.