Welcome to the cozy embrace of fall with our Timeless Pumpkin Delight. This pie captures the essence of the season, offering warmth and comfort with every bite. Perfect for gatherings or simply indulging at home, it's a tried-and-true favorite that never disappoints.
Pumpkin puree is the star of this pie, bringing that rich, earthy flavor that defines autumn desserts. We use canned for convenience and consistency. Evaporated milk gives the filling a creamy texture without making it too heavy. Granulated sugar balances the spices and enhances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin. Eggs act as a binder, setting the filling as it bakes. Vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth and depth. The blend of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg creates that quintessential pumpkin pie spice aroma. A pinch of salt sharpens the flavors, while a tablespoon of all-purpose flour helps thicken the mixture slightly.
This pie shines on its own but can be elevated with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more decadent touch, drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top. Pair it with spiced apple cider for a truly autumnal treat.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie will bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl. Add in the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using a whisk or electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until they're well combined. You’re aiming for a smooth, uniform mixture.
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt, nutmeg, and flour. This step ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the pie. Now, gradually add these dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring gently as you go. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
Pour the smooth, spiced pumpkin mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish. Slide it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You'll know it's done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, place the pie on a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This cooling time is crucial as it allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld.