Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert that is perfect for fall and holiday gatherings. Made with a creamy pumpkin filling and a flaky pie crust, this pie is a delicious treat that is sure to please. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make the perfect pumpkin pie from scratch, including how to make your own pie crust and pumpkin filling.
Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin Pie:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup evaporated milk
How to Make Perfect Pumpkin Pie:
- Make the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually stir in the evaporated milk until well combined. Set aside.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out the Pie Crust:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pie crust into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and gently press it into the bottom and sides of the dish. Trim any excess dough.
- Fill the Pie Crust:
- Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Serve at room temperature with whipped cream, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients:
Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin puree is the base of the filling and provides the iconic pumpkin flavor. Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
Spices: A blend of ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves gives the pie its warm and aromatic flavor. Adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk adds creaminess to the filling without making it too heavy. You can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer filling.
This recipe for Perfect Pumpkin Pie is sure to become a favorite dessert for your fall and holiday celebrations. With its creamy pumpkin filling and flaky crust, it’s a delicious and comforting treat that will delight your family and friends.
