Classic Pumpkin Pie Recipe: The Ultimate Thanksgiving Dessert

Pumpkin pie is a staple of the holiday season, and this Pumpkin Pie Recipe is the perfect addition to your festive spread. This easy-to-make pie features a smooth, spiced filling and a flaky homemade crust that will impress your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe guarantees a delicious, comforting dessert for your Thanksgiving table.

Why This Pumpkin Pie Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Pumpkin Pie Recipe is not just about great flavor, but also about ease and convenience. The homemade crust adds a buttery richness, while the filling offers the perfect blend of pumpkin and warm spices. It’s quick to prepare, with the pie ready to bake in about 30 minutes. Plus, it tastes even better after sitting overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for Thanksgiving or other holiday gatherings. Whether served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pumpkin pie will always steal the show.

Ingredients for a Pumpkin Pie Recipe

To make this Pumpkin Pie Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients for both the crust and the filling:

For the Crust:

• All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the flaky pie crust.
• Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pie crust.
• Unsalted butter: The key to a tender and flaky crust.
• Ice-cold water: Helps bind the dough together without making it sticky.

For the Filling:

• Pumpkin puree: The star of the pie, lending its creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Eggs: Help to set the filling and give it structure.
• Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor.
• Heavy cream: Makes the filling smooth and rich.
• Whole milk: Adds additional creaminess to balance the heavy cream.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling, ensuring it sets properly.
• Ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, allspice, nutmeg: These warm spices bring depth to the pumpkin flavor.
• Salt: Balances and enhances the flavors of the pie.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing some ingredients or have dietary preferences, here are a few substitutions:

• Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time. Alternatively, for a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Milk: If you’re dairy-free, almond milk or coconut milk can replace whole milk. For a lighter version, try using 2% milk.
• Sugar: If you’re reducing sugar, you can swap the brown sugar with a lower glycemic sweetener like monk fruit sweetener.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Pumpkin Pie Recipe:

1. Make the Pie Crust:
   • In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles small peas.
   • Add ice-cold water, pulsing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk and roll it out to fit your pie dish. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, heavy cream, and milk.
   • Add the cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth and combined.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Pour the pumpkin filling into the chilled pie crust. Bake for 40-55 minutes. Check halfway through and cover the crust with foil if it starts to over-brown. The pie is done when the center is slightly jiggly but firm.
4. Cool and Chill:
   • Let the pie cool on a wire rack for 3 hours before refrigerating it for several hours or overnight. The pie will firm up as it cools, and the flavors will deepen.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Pumpkin Pie Recipe

• Don’t Overbake: The key to preventing cracks in your pumpkin pie is to avoid overbaking. The center should still jiggle slightly when you shake the pan. It will set as it cools.
• Pie Crust Perfection: If you prefer an extra crispy crust, par-bake the crust before adding the filling. Simply blind-bake it for 15 minutes before filling it with the pumpkin mixture.
• Chill for Flavor: For the best texture and flavor, make the pie a day ahead and allow it to chill overnight. This gives the spices time to develop fully.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While this Pumpkin Pie Recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily enhance it with a variety of pairings and variations:

• Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the richness of the pie.
• Add a Spiced Topping: Top your pie with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a few toasted pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Alternative Crusts: For a twist, try a graham cracker crust or even a chocolate cookie crust for a fun and different taste.

Making Pumpkin Pie Recipe Ahead of Time

Pumpkin pie is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. You can store the pie in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, let the pie cool completely, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

This Pumpkin Pie Recipe is simple to make and sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday dessert lineup.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Pie Recipe is the perfect dessert for any fall or holiday gathering. With its smooth and creamy filling, complemented by the buttery homemade crust, it’s sure to be the highlight of your table. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a family dinner, or just a cozy night at home, this pie is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, its ease of preparation makes it ideal even for beginner bakers. Make it ahead, enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream, and watch as everyone asks for the recipe!

FAQs About Pumpkin Pie Recipe

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