Are you ready to experience the ultimate autumnal delight? Forget those store-bought pies! This recipe for the best pumpkin pie, sweetened with condensed milk, will become your new go-to for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in. It's surprisingly easy, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a flavor that's intensely rich and satisfying. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this incredibly delicious and easy-to-make homemade pumpkin pie! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals with a delicious twist.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe focuses on simple ingredients to create maximum flavor. Gather these before you start:
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking a Perfect Pumpkin Pie
Let's get baking! Follow these steps for a perfectly smooth and flavorful pumpkin pie:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Gently whisk the pumpkin puree in a large bowl to ensure a smooth consistency. This simple step makes a big difference in the pie’s texture.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg to the pumpkin puree. Whisk everything together until thoroughly combined and smooth. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Pour & Bake: Pour the pumpkin mixture into your unbaked pie crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Chill: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly.
Cooking Tips for Pumpkin Pie Perfection
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and condensed milk to room temperature before mixing helps create a smoother batter.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry pie. Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
- Blind Baking (Optional): For a crispier crust, consider blind baking it for 10-12 minutes before adding the filling. This involves lining the crust with parchment paper and pie weights before baking.
Variations to Explore: Spice it Up!
- Spiced Pumpkin Pie: Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
- Chocolate Swirl Pumpkin Pie: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the filling before baking for a decadent twist.
- Gingersnap Crust: Replace the regular pie crust with a gingersnap crust for a fantastic flavor combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 30-40g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
This easy pumpkin pie recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and spice, making it the perfect addition to your autumnal baking repertoire. Enjoy the delicious homemade treat and share the joy of baking with loved ones. It's a perfect example of easy recipes and delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. Making this pie is a great way to showcase your homemade cooking skills!