Classic Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Pumpkin pie is a beloved dessert that epitomizes the flavors of autumn and the spirit of holiday gatherings. With its creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust, this classic pie is a staple at Thanksgiving and other festive occasions. The smooth, velvety texture of the pumpkin custard, combined with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, creates a comforting and delicious treat.

This recipe offers a traditional approach to making pumpkin pie from scratch, ensuring a rich, flavorful filling and a perfectly baked crust. Whether served with a dollop of whipped cream or on its own, this pumpkin pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Pumpkin Filling:

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Serving (Optional):

• Whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter pieces to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Form Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Roll Out and Blind Bake the Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
3. Blind Bake: Line the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

1. Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Add Eggs: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
3. Add Milk and Vanilla: Gradually add the evaporated milk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Pie

1. Pour Filling: Pour the pumpkin filling into the partially baked pie crust.
2. Bake: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
3. Cool: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the filling to set properly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Slice and Enjoy: Serve the pumpkin pie at room temperature or chilled, topped with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Pie

• Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added spices and sweeteners.
• Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. A little extra cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom can add a unique touch.
• Blind Baking: Blind baking the crust helps prevent a soggy bottom and ensures a crisp, flaky crust.
• Cooling Time: Allowing the pie to cool completely ensures the filling sets properly and makes slicing easier.

Classic pumpkin pie is a timeless dessert that brings the warm, comforting flavors of fall to any table. Perfect for holidays or any occasion, this homemade pumpkin pie is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the rich, spiced filling and flaky crust of this quintessential treat!