As the crisp autumn air rolls in, nothing beats the smell of a freshly baked pumpkin pie filling your home.
Whether you are preparing for a festive autumn gathering or just looking for a cozy dessert to enjoy on a chilly evening, pumpkin pie is a seasonal classic that never disappoints.
With the right balance of spices and a buttery crust, this recipe will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.
Ingredients for the Perfect Pie
For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup cold, unsalted butter (cubed)
- 3-4 tbsp ice water
For the Filling:
- 2 cups pumpkin purée (fresh or canned)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ginger
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing flour and salt in a bowl. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. One spoonful at a time, gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Form a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll and Blind Bake the Crust
On a surface dusted with flour, roll out the chilled dough and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any overhanging edges, crimp the sides for a decorative finish, and poke holes with a fork across the bottom. To prevent soggy crusts, line the dough with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
3. Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, brown sugar, and spices. Gradually add the eggs, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the heavy cream until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble and Bake
After the crust has been baked, pour the filling into it and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly wobbly. If you insert a toothpick close to the edge, it should come out clean.
5. Cool and Serve
For the filling to fully set, let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least two hours. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Pro Tips for Pie Perfection
- Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices bring out the best flavors. If possible, grate your nutmeg and grind cloves yourself.
- Don’t skip the blind bake: This ensures the crust stays crispy, even with a moist filling.
- Chill the dough: Cold dough prevents the butter from melting too soon, giving you a flaky crust.
Wrap-Up
There’s something magical about the warmth and sweetness of a pumpkin pie.It's a seasonal celebration rather than merely a dessert. Whether you’re sharing it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home, this pumpkin pie will bring the cozy vibes you crave. Happy baking!
