Are you ready to bake the most delicious pumpkin pie this fall? Forget those store-bought versions – this recipe, inspired by the legendary King Arthur Baking, will transport you to pumpkin pie paradise. It's surprisingly easy, even for beginner bakers, and the result is a creamy, spiced pumpkin pie that's guaranteed to be the star of your Thanksgiving table or any autumn gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece – a true contender for best recipes!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Autumn Flavors
This recipe yields one 9-inch pumpkin pie.
- 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 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
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions: Step-by-Step to Pie Perfection
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high initial temperature helps set the crust beautifully.
- Carefully place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate.
Mixing the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until completely smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps!
Baking the Pie:
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). This initial high heat sets the crust and prevents a soggy bottom.
- 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. The center might still jiggle slightly – that’s okay! It will firm up as it cools.
Cooling and Serving:
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial for preventing cracks and ensuring a smooth, creamy texture. Cooling completely often takes a few hours, so plan ahead!
- Once cool, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to set completely.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Pie Perfection
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother, more easily blended filling, allow your eggs and pumpkin puree to come to room temperature before mixing.
- Blind Baking (Optional): For an extra-crisp crust, consider blind baking it before adding the filling. This involves lining the crust with parchment paper and pie weights, then baking it briefly before adding the filling.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with different spices! A dash of allspice or cardamom can add a lovely complexity.
Variations: Beyond the Classic
- Spiced Pecan Pumpkin Pie: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Swirl Pumpkin Pie: Add 2 tablespoons of melted dark chocolate to the filling for a decadent twist.
- Gingerbread Pumpkin Pie: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground ginger and 1/2 teaspoon of molasses for a warm gingerbread flavor.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate)
Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories Fat: Approximately 15-20g Protein: Approximately 5-7g Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
This easy pumpkin pie recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a healthy alternative to store-bought pies, and the homemade touch elevates it to a whole new level. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to bake a pie that's sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!