Perfect Pumpkin Pie Recipe for Thanksgiving

Introduction to Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a staple dessert at many Thanksgiving gatherings. It’s a classic recipe that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of pumpkin, all wrapped up in a perfectly baked crust. In this article, we’ll explore the steps to make a homemade pumpkin pie that’s sure to impress any guest.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 15-oz. can pumpkin puree
• 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk
• Whipped cream for serving

Instructions for the Perfect Pie

Preparing the Crust
1.

Roll Out the Pie Dough

: On a lightly floured surface, roll the pie dough into a 13-inch round. Transfer the crust to a 9-inch pie plate that is at least 1 1/2 inches deep. Tuck the edges of the crust under to be even with the edge of the pie plate and crimp. Prick the surface of the crust all over with a fork.

2.

Chill the Crust

: Place the crust in the refrigerator for 60 minutes (or freezer for 30 minutes) to set.

3.

Bake the Crust

: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line the inside of the crust with parchment paper, then fill to the top with baking weights or dried beans. Bake the pie crust until the edges look dry and it just begins to take on a bit of color, 13 to 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights, then return the crust to the oven and bake until the bottom appears dry, 4 to 6 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.

Preparing the Filling
1.

Combine Ingredients

: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, heavy whipping cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Whisk in the eggs and egg yolk until thoroughly combined.

2.

Pour in the Filling

: Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust and place on a baking sheet.

3.

Bake the Pie

: Bake until the filling is set around the edges and the center jiggles just slightly, which should take about 55 to 60 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Finishing Touches

For the perfect slice, refrigerate the pie for at least two hours (up to 24 hours) before serving. Serve with whipped cream for an extra-special treat.

Choosing the Right Pie Plate

When making a pumpkin pie, it’s important to use a pie plate that is at least 1.5 inches deep. This ensures that the filling doesn’t overflow during baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but it requires more preparation. You’ll need to cook and puree the pumpkin before using it in the pie.

Q: How long can I store the pie?

A: Once baked, the pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Q: Can I make the pie crust from scratch?

A: Yes, making a pie crust from scratch is a great way to customize your pie. It involves mixing flour, butter, and water to create a flaky crust.

Conclusion

Making a homemade pumpkin pie is a rewarding experience that adds a personal touch to any Thanksgiving celebration. With these simple steps and the right ingredients, you can create a delicious and memorable dessert that everyone will love.