As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked pumpkin pie to complete your Thanksgiving feast. This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with a blend of warm spices, creating a dessert that’s both simple to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at pumpkin pie for the first time, this recipe guarantees a delicious result that embodies the essence of the holiday season.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie
- 2 large (100 grams) free-run eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk
- 2 cups (480 grams) mashed or canned pumpkin
- 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup (150 grams) brown sugar, such as demerara
- 3/4 teaspoon (3 grams) ground ginger, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) ground cinnamon, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) ground nutmeg, or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon (0.5 grams) ground Himalayan sea salt
- 1 large (23 centimeters) pie crust (9-inch)
How to Make Pumpkin Pie
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450ºF (232ºC). In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 large (100 grams) beaten free-run eggs, 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk, 2 cups (480 grams) mashed or canned pumpkin, 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) evaporated milk, 3/4 cup (150 grams) brown sugar, 3/4 teaspoon (3 grams) ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon (1 gram) ground nutmeg, and 1/8 teaspoon (0.5 grams) ground Himalayan sea salt. Whisk until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Line a 9-inch (23 centimeters) pie plate with the prepared pie crust. Pour the pumpkin filling mixture into the crust, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Initial Baking: Place a pie crust shield over the edges of the crust to prevent over-browning. Transfer the pie to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes at 450ºF (232ºC).
- Adjust Baking Temperature: After the initial baking, reduce the oven temperature to 350ºF (177ºC) without removing the pie from the oven. Continue baking the pie for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling: Remove the pie from the oven and promptly place a pizza pan or another oven-safe object over the top of the pie. Allow the pie to sit and cool for 15 to 20 minutes. This resting period helps the pie set properly and prevents it from becoming soggy.
- Serve: Once cooled, slice the pumpkin pie and serve it as a delightful end to your Thanksgiving meal. Optionally, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
This Classic Pumpkin Pie recipe is a perfect embodiment of Thanksgiving traditions, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and spiced flavors that capture the essence of the holiday. The creamy pumpkin filling nestled in a flaky pie crust creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. Easy to prepare ahead of time, this pie allows you to focus on enjoying the festivities with your loved ones. Whether served at a large family gathering or a cozy dinner, this pumpkin pie is sure to be a beloved addition to your Thanksgiving menu. Celebrate the season with this timeless dessert and create lasting memories around the table. Happy Thanksgiving!
