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Nothing says fall quite like the warm, comforting flavors of a classic pumpkin pie. This Easy Pumpkin Pie Recipe is perfect for holiday dinners or any cozy autumn gathering. With its creamy filling spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, all nestled in a flaky pie crust, this dessert is a timeless favorite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees a delicious outcome every time. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients that make this pumpkin pie so special.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful pumpkin pie:
- 1 unbaked 9" pie crust: The foundation of your pie, offering a crisp and flaky texture that complements the smooth filling. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch.
- 3 large eggs, with 1 egg divided: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and giving the filling its creamy texture. You'll need to separate one egg white for brushing the crust.
- 1 ¼ cup heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and a velvety consistency to the pie filling.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the perfect amount of sweetness to balance the spices and pumpkin.
- 1 15-ounce can pure pumpkin: The star ingredient! Make sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to control the sweetness and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that adds warmth and depth to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the overall flavor with its distinct, slightly sweet and nutty taste.
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a touch of spiciness and aromatic flavor that complements the pumpkin perfectly.
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the pie.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a perfectly spiced and creamy pumpkin pie that will be the highlight of your holiday table.
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high initial temperature helps set the crust and filling.
Step 2: Prepare Pie Crust
Roll out one disc of dough to ¼" thickness. Carefully fit the dough into a 9" pie plate, ensuring it’s evenly spread and the edges are fluted. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling to help it hold its shape during baking.
Step 3: Mix Filling
In a large bowl, lightly whisk 3 egg yolks and 2 egg whites. Reserve the additional egg white in a small bowl and set aside. To the whisked eggs, add the 1 ¼ cup heavy cream, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 can pure pumpkin, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¾ teaspoon ground ginger, and ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The mixture should be smooth and well-blended, with no lumps.
Step 4: Brush Pie Crust
Remove the pie crust from the refrigerator. Whisk the reserved egg white with a fork and brush the bottom of the pie crust with it. This creates a barrier that helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy once the filling is added.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust. Carefully transfer the pie to the preheated oven. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. This initial high heat helps to set the crust and the filling. After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 6: Check and Tent
Check the pie crust. If it’s browning too much, lightly tent the edges with pieces of foil or use a pie crust shield to prevent over-browning. Continue to bake for another 15 minutes, for a total of about 1 hour. The filling should still be slightly jiggly in the center; it will set as it cools.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours or overnight. This cooling period is crucial for the filling to fully set, making it easier to slice. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Enjoy your homemade pumpkin pie!
Serving and Storage Tips
Enjoying your homemade pumpkin pie is easy with these serving and storage tips. Proper storage ensures that your pie stays fresh and delicious for days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time for holidays and gatherings.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your pumpkin pie and make it your own:
- Spice Mix: While the recipe calls for cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, you can experiment with other spices such as allspice, cloves, or a pre-made pumpkin pie spice blend. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.
- Crust Options: If you prefer a different crust, try using a graham cracker crust or a gingersnap cookie crust for a unique twist. Both options add a delightful crunch and complementary flavors to the pie.
- Dairy Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer. This will add a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the pumpkin and spices.
- Sweetener Alternatives: If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can use a sugar substitute or natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Adjust the quantities to taste and ensure the consistency remains suitable for baking.