Pumpkin pie

Pumpkin Pie – A Sweet Autumn Indulgence

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Let's be carried away by the flavors of autumn and enjoy a traditional pumpkin pie recipe, a dessert that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the perfect texture of flaky crust. It is a recipe that reminds us of family moments, cool evenings, and the warmth of home.

Ingredients

*For the filling:*
- Pumpkin: 1-1.5 kg (choose a sweet pumpkin, preferably butternut or hokkaido)
- Sugar: 11 tablespoons (adjust according to desired sweetness)
- Cinnamon: 1 packet (or 2-3 tablespoons, to taste)
- Vanilla sugar: 1 packet (for an extra aroma)
- Water: enough to cover the pumpkin in the pot

*For the pie crust:*
- Flour: as needed (approximately 800 g)
- Yeast: 10 g
- Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Lard: 1 cup (or oil, but lard will provide a richer taste)
- Salt: a pinch
- Warm water: 1 cup
- Egg: 1 (for brushing the pie)
- Milk or cream: 1-2 tablespoons (optional for glaze)
- Powdered sugar: for decoration

Preparation of Filling

1. Cleaning the Pumpkin: Start by peeling the pumpkin and removing the seeds. Wash it well and cut it into small cubes to make it easier to grate.

2. Grating: Grate the pumpkin using a large grater. This will release its natural juices, adding a delicious flavor to the filling.

3. Cooking the Pumpkin: Place the grated pumpkin in a pot. Add a little water, just enough to cover the bottom of the pot, and 10 tablespoons of sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 10 minutes, until the pumpkin becomes soft.

4. Seasoning: Once the pumpkin has cooled completely, add the cinnamon, vanilla sugar, and mix well. Taste the filling and adjust the spices or sugar according to your preferences. You can also add nutmeg or ginger for a more complex flavor.

Preparation of Crust

5. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, add the warm water, vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, a pinch of salt, melted lard, and yeast. Mix the ingredients well.

6. Kneading: Start adding flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or your hands. Continue adding flour until you get a soft and sticky dough. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands.

7. Dividing the Dough: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. From the first two pieces, form a sheet. Roll out each piece of dough with a rolling pin until it is as thin as a sheet of paper.

8. Grease and Roll: Grease the first sheet with lard, then place the second sheet on top. Press gently, then roll out again, ensuring the sheet is even. Repeat the process for all four sheets.

9. Filling: Spread the pumpkin filling evenly on the sheet, rolling carefully so as not to tear it. Place the formed pies in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

10. Finalizing: Brush the pies with lard, then cut gently with a knife without completely separating them. This step will help form beautiful portions. Finally, brush the pies with a beaten egg mixed with milk or cream for a golden and shiny crust.

11. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180-200 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Bake for 40-50 minutes, turning the dish halfway through to ensure even baking. The pies are ready when they become golden brown and fragrant.

12. Cooling and Decorating: Let the pies cool completely, then dust them with powdered sugar. You can serve them warm or cold, according to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin pies are perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. You can serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea. Another delicious option is to accompany them with a caramel sauce or a drizzle of cream.

Tips and Tricks

- Choosing the Pumpkin: Choose sweeter pumpkins to reduce the amount of sugar needed. Hokkaido pumpkin is an excellent choice for this recipe due to its intense flavor.
- Variations: You can experiment with other fillings, such as apples or cottage cheese, to add a twist to this recipe. Additionally, adding nuts or hazelnuts to the filling adds extra texture.
- Storage: The pies keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.

Nutritional Benefits

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins, especially vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and the immune system. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which help combat inflammation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour? - Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, although the texture will be different.
2. Can the pie be frozen? - Yes, the pies can be frozen before baking, but make sure they are well covered.
3. Can I replace lard with something else? - While oil can be used, lard provides superior flavor and texture.

So, I encourage you to try this pumpkin pie recipe, enjoy every bite, and share the beautiful moments spent around the table. Enjoy your meal!