As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked pumpkin pie wafting through the kitchen. This classic dessert, topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon, is the epitome of fall indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at pie-making for the first time, this recipe is designed to guide you through creating a delectable pumpkin pie that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Pumpkin Filling:
- 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 oz) can of sweetened condensed milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish.
- Trim and crimp the edges.
- Pour the pumpkin filling into the crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-40 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool the pie completely on a wire rack.
4. Whip the Cream
- In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Top your cooled pumpkin pie with generous dollops of whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon. The contrast between the silky, spiced pumpkin filling and the pillowy whipped cream is simply divine!
As you slice into this perfect pumpkin pie, watch the rich, amber filling yield to your fork, releasing its warm, spicy aroma. The buttery crust crumbles delightfully, while the cool whipped cream melts ever so slightly on top. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that embodies the very essence of autumn.
Whether shared at a festive gathering or savored quietly with a cup of coffee, this pumpkin pie is sure to become a cherished part of your fall traditions. So go ahead, indulge in a slice (or two) of this comforting classic – after all, that’s what the season is all about!
