Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert often enjoyed during the fall season and especially on Thanksgiving. It features a creamy and spiced pumpkin filling baked in a flaky pie crust. Here's a traditional recipe to make a delicious pumpkin pie.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

• 2-4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 1 ¾ cups canned pumpkin puree (or homemade)

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup evaporated milk

• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

5. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well. Then, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the evaporated milk. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined.

6. Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust.

7. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop and the pie to set.

9. Serve chilled or at room temperature. If desired, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

Enjoy your homemade pumpkin pie, a classic dessert that's perfect for autumn gatherings and holiday celebrations!