Pumpkin pie

Pumpkin pie is a recipe that pays tribute to the season and reminds us of the warm moments spent with loved ones. With a slightly crunchy texture on the outside and a sweet, fragrant filling, this pumpkin pie will surely become a household favorite. In this guide, I will walk you through each step to ensure you achieve a perfect, flavorful result.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8-10 servings

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 200 g lard (or butter, if you prefer a lighter option)
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 100 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:
- 1 small pumpkin (about 1 kg)
- 200 g sugar
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons semolina

For decoration:
- Powdered sugar (to taste)

A bit of history:

Pumpkin pies have been made throughout history, symbolizing abundance and harvest. Using pumpkin in desserts not only adds sweetness but also a hint of moisture that makes the pie easy to chew. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform a dessert into a delicacy, full of flavor and aroma.

Step by step – Making the pumpkin pie:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the lard is at room temperature to blend easily into the mixture. If using fresh pumpkin, peel and grate it before cooking.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour with the lard. Use your fingers to work the flour into the lard until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. This step is crucial to ensure a tender pie.

3. Adding wet ingredients: Add the sour cream, sugar, eggs, and baking powder to the bowl. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. If the dough seems too soft, you can add a little extra flour.

4. Kneading the dough: Continue kneading the dough until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. Divide the dough into two equal parts, one slightly larger than the other, to form the pie crusts.

5. Preparing the filling: In a deep skillet, add the grated pumpkin and half of the sugar. Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin softens. Add the remaining sugar, vanilla sugar, and semolina. Mix well, then let the filling cool.

6. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the first part of the dough on a lightly floured surface to create a thin crust. Place the crust in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Spread the pumpkin filling evenly over the crust with a spatula. Roll out the second part of the dough, which will be slightly firmer, and grate it over the filling.

7. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 35-40 minutes, or until it turns golden and crispy. A tip to check if it's done is to use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready!

8. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool in the dish for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, generously dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Serving suggestions:

Pumpkin pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a flavor contrast. A cup of winter tea or a strong espresso pairs perfectly with the pie's sweetness.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, canned pumpkin is a quick and convenient alternative. Just make sure to choose pure pumpkin without added sugars or spices.

2. What can I do to make the pie less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling. Pumpkin already has natural sweetness, so it doesn't need to be overly sweet.

3. How can I store the pie? Pumpkin pie stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it, but be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezer bags.

4. Are there variations of this recipe? Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts or ground almonds to the filling for added texture. You can also try using different types of pumpkin or adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly high in vitamin A, which helps maintain eye health. It is also a good source of fiber, which can aid in healthy digestion. Therefore, pumpkin pie is not only a delicious dessert but also a nutritionally beneficial choice.

Calories:

A serving of pumpkin pie contains approximately 250 calories, though this number may vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used.

In conclusion, pumpkin pie is a wonderful dessert that blends tradition and flavor, bringing a touch of warmth to every meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your tastes. Every bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, turning any moment into a special one. Happy baking!