Growing up in my grandmother’s kitchen, I can still remember the warm embrace of spices and the joyful laughter that filled the air as we cooked together. One of our favorite seasonal traditions was making classic pumpkin pie every autumn. The way the sweet, spicy aroma would waft through the house had us all eagerly awaiting dessert long before dinner was served. This pie wasn’t just a dish; it was a love letter to our American heritage, combining simple ingredients into a slice of heaven.
This pumpkin pie recipe holds a special place in my heart, not only because of its comforting taste but also due to the memories associated with it. Each slice tells a story of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of sharing something homemade. As the leaves turn and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with this iconic dessert.
So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a pumpkin pie that honors our roots and creates new traditions.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pie
- Time-Honored Recipe: Passed down through generations, bringing a taste of tradition.
- Seasonal Delight: Perfect for autumn and Thanksgiving gatherings.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easily accessible pantry staples.
- Customizable: Add your personal touch with spices or toppings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for all ages, guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
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For the Pie Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6 tablespoons ice-cold water
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For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually mix in ice-cold water until the dough holds together without being sticky.
- Chill: Form into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Make the Filling
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Blend Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, and salt until smooth.
- Add Eggs and Milk: Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the evaporated milk until well combined.
Assemble and Bake
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled crust to fit your pie dish. Transfer it carefully to the dish.
- Add Filling: Pour the pumpkin filling into the crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spice amounts based on your taste. Add more cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a kick!
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute evaporated milk with coconut milk for a lactose-free version.
- Top It Off: Serve with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Serve chilled or warm. To warm, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Calories per serving: Approx. 200
- Servings: 8 slices
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just roast and puree your fresh pumpkin for a delightful, handmade touch.
2. What if I don’t have ground cloves?
You can substitute with additional nutmeg or cinnamon if you’re out of cloves.
3. How do I know when my pie is done?
The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Can I add chocolate or nuts to the filling?
Certainly! Chopped walnuts or a swirl of chocolate can add a delicious twist to the traditional flavor.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
- Pair with warm apple cider or a crisp glass of white wine for a festive touch.
- Serve alongside a fresh arugula salad to balance the sweetness with some greens.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or top with a dollop of whipped cream for that indulgent finish.
Final Thoughts
This pumpkin pie recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and family. I hope this brings just as much warmth and joy to your kitchen as it does to mine. I’d love to see your creations! Please share your versions or leave a comment below — let’s keep the tradition alive together! Happy baking!