Traditional Harvest Pumpkin Pie

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 5 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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Welcome to the heart of autumn with a recipe that embodies the cozy and comforting flavors of the season. This Traditional Harvest Pumpkin Pie is a timeless classic, perfect for holiday gatherings or any day you crave a taste of fall.

Ingredients for Traditional Harvest Pumpkin Pie

The foundation begins with a classic unbaked 9-inch pie crust, which provides a flaky, buttery base. The filling's sweetness is derived from granulated sugar, perfectly balanced with a touch of salt to enhance the flavors. The aromatic blend of ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves infuses the pie with the essence of fall. Eggs add richness and help set the filling. The star ingredient, pumpkin puree, offers a smooth, earthy foundation, while evaporated milk lends creaminess without overpowering the spices.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
  • Use room temperature eggs for better mixture consistency.
  • For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white.

Serving Suggestions

This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle a bit of nutmeg or cinnamon on top before serving. A hot cup of spiced tea or cider complements the pie's warm flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth and strain any excess liquid.
How can I tell if the pie is fully baked?
Insert a knife near the center of the pie; it should come out clean if the pie is done.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! The pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Traditional Harvest Pumpkin Pie Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F. This initial high heat is essential for setting the crust and starting the filling on its journey to creamy perfection.

In a small bowl, combine your granulated sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves. This spice mix will be the aromatic backbone of your pie.

In a larger bowl, gently beat your eggs until they’re well mixed. Add in the pumpkin puree and the sugar-spice mixture. Stir them together until everything is beautifully combined.

Slowly pour in the evaporated milk, stirring continuously. You want a smooth, uniform filling, free of lumps.

Carefully pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, ensuring it spreads evenly.

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 40 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Once baked, allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for about 2 hours. This cooling period is crucial for the pie to set properly. After cooling, pop it in the refrigerator for a chill that enhances the flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly balanced spices create a warm, nostalgic flavor.
  • Simple ingredients make it easy to prepare, even for beginners.
  • Rich, creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with a flaky crust.
  • A crowd-pleaser that brings joy to every table setting.

Ingredients

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
2 large eggs
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Mix sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves in a bowl.
3. Beat eggs in a separate large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture.
4. Gradually stir in evaporated milk until fully combined.
5. Pour filling into pie crust.
6. Bake pie for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350°F and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
7. Cool on a wire rack for 2 hours, then refrigerate.

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