Baked Pumpkin Pie

Baked Pumpkin Pie – A Childhood Delight

Total Time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Number of Servings: 8-10

Who doesn’t fondly remember the moments spent in grandma’s kitchen, where the aroma of baked pumpkin pie tantalized the senses? This classic recipe is a perfect blend of sweetness and texture, bringing together pleasant childhood memories and the joy of home cooking. With baked pumpkin, sugar, roasted nuts, and a delicious crust, our pie promises to turn any meal into a celebration.

Ingredients

For the filling:
- 1 pumpkin (about 2 kg)
- 200 g sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- 100 g roasted nuts

For the pie crust:
- 1 cup of oil
- 1 cup of milk or sparkling water
- 25 g yeast
- 500 g flour
- 1 egg

Ingredient Details

- Pumpkin: Choose a medium-sized pumpkin with smooth skin and vibrant color. Baked pumpkin has a sweeter taste and finer texture than grated or boiled, making it ideal for this recipe.
- Sugar: You can use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor, or reduce the amount of sugar, considering that baked pumpkin is already sweeter.
- Roasted nuts: Nuts add a crunchy note and a rich flavor. You can opt for pecans or almonds for an interesting variation.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the pumpkin:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Cut the pumpkin into 4-6 pieces, removing the seeds. Place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 2-3 hours until soft.
- Once cooled, remove the skin and place the pulp in a bowl. Add sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of oil, mixing well until smooth.

2. Preparing the dough:
- In another bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk or sparkling water. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour with the oil. Add the dissolved yeast and egg. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes.

3. Assembling the pie:
- After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts.
- On a floured surface, roll out the first piece of dough, making sure it’s large enough to cover the bottom of the tray. Place the dough in the floured tray.
- Evenly distribute the pumpkin filling over the first layer, sprinkling the roasted nuts on top.
- Roll out the second piece of dough and cover the filling. Cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Sprinkle sugar on top for added caramelization.

4. Baking the pie:
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Let the pie cool slightly before cutting and serving.

Practical Tips

- Cooling the pumpkin: Make sure the pumpkin is completely cooled before peeling, as this will make it easier to remove the skin.
- Checking doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the pie is baked. If the toothpick comes out clean, the pie is ready.
- Serving: Serve the pie warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a contrast of temperature and texture.

Variations

- Pumpkin and apple pie: Add a few slices of apple to the pumpkin filling for a fruity flavor.
- Spiced pie: Season the filling with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a fall flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making this pie not only delicious but also healthy. Consuming pumpkin can help improve vision and support the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, you can use canned pumpkin, but make sure it doesn’t contain additives or added sugar.
- How can I store the pie? The pie can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving to restore its texture.

This baked pumpkin pie is perfect for enjoying at a family meal or a special occasion. With each bite, it will transport you back in time, reminding you of the warm and loving moments spent in grandma’s kitchen. So, put on your apron and enjoy the cooking process, bringing this traditional recipe to life!