Are you craving a warm, comforting slice of pumpkin pie but intimidated by complicated recipes? Fear not! This pumpkin pie recipe, made with the magic of sweet condensed milk, is surprisingly easy and delivers an incredibly delicious result. It's the perfect homemade dessert for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or any time you need a little slice of autumnal bliss. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick and easy recipe, a true testament to delicious and simple homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 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)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Gently unwrap your pie crust and place it in your pie plate. This is a crucial step for preventing cracks in your pie crust later on.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no lumps of pumpkin or spices remaining; a smooth batter ensures an even texture in your final pie. This simple step makes a world of difference in the overall quality of your pie.
Step 3: Pour and Bake
Pour the pumpkin mixture into the unbaked pie crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills during baking – this is a helpful tip to keep your oven clean. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
Step 4: Reduce Heat and Continue Baking
After 15 minutes, 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 baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy, runny pie. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pie to set completely. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy texture.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Pie:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother batter, allow your eggs and condensed milk to reach room temperature before mixing.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry pie. Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
- Homemade Crust: If you're feeling ambitious, making your own pie crust will elevate the overall flavor of your pie. There are many easy homemade pie crust recipes available online.
Variations:
- Spiced Pumpkin Pie: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Creamy Pumpkin Pie: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream along with the other ingredients for an extra rich and creamy texture.
- Gingersnap Crust: Use gingersnap cookies to create a flavorful and unique crust.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350 Fat: Approximately 18g Saturated Fat: Approximately 10g Cholesterol: Approximately 60mg Sodium: Approximately 200mg Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g Sugar: Approximately 25g Protein: Approximately 4g
This delicious pumpkin pie recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals made simple. Enjoy this easy recipe and the delightful taste of homemade cooking! It's a simple yet satisfying quick dinner addition, perfect for a cozy night in. This easy recipe is one of the best recipes for those looking for satisfying, healthy, and delicious dishes without spending hours in the kitchen. Happy baking!