Pumpkin pie

Pumpkin pie – a delicacy that combines tradition and the rich taste of autumn. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones, whether you enjoy it at a festive table or simply during a regular evening at home. Let's embark together on a journey through the world of sweet flavors and crunchy textures!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 eggs
- 14 tablespoons of sugar
- 14 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil for a neutral flavor)
- 500 g of flour (you can use whole wheat flour for added nutrition)
- 1 cup of milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- 1 packet of baking powder (or 1 teaspoon of baking soda)
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 pumpkin (about 1 kg; Hokkaido pumpkin is an excellent choice due to its natural sweetness)
- 3-4 tablespoons of sugar (or to taste)
- Cinnamon, to taste (you can also add a pinch of nutmeg for an even richer flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by beating the eggs well in a large bowl. Add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a fluffy foam. It is essential for the sugar to dissolve completely to have a uniform dough. Then, gradually pour in the oil and milk, mixing continuously to incorporate all the ingredients.

Sifting the flour together with the baking powder and salt is an important step, as it helps aerate the flour, giving the dough a fluffier texture. Add the flour mixture over the egg composition and mix with a spatula or wooden spoon until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Do not over-knead, as the dough may become elastic and tough.

Once the dough is ready, set it aside to rest for 20 minutes. This step will allow the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
While the dough is resting, you can prepare the filling. Peel the pumpkin and grate the flesh on a large grater. This is an easy step to accomplish, but it can be a bit tiring; make sure to use a sharp knife to avoid accidents.

Put the grated pumpkin in a saucepan over medium heat and add the sugar. Sauté the pumpkin for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until it softens. Once you turn off the heat, add the cinnamon and mix well; this spice will give the filling a special taste and an inviting aroma.

Step 3: Assembling the pie
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out each part on a floured surface until you obtain thin sheets. If you prefer a pie with a more special appearance, you can choose to roll the sheets with the filling, as I did in my customized version.

Prepare a baking tray by greasing it with a drizzle of oil and sprinkling breadcrumbs, which will help absorb excess moisture. Place the first sheet of dough in the tray, spread the pumpkin filling evenly, and then cover with the second sheet of dough.

Step 4: Baking the pie
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pie turns golden and crispy on top. It is recommended to check the pie every 10 minutes to ensure it doesn’t burn.

Serving and variations
Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before slicing. It is delicious served warm, but also cold, and can be accompanied by a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

For a healthier option, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling, or experiment with other spices such as ginger or cloves.

Useful tips
- Choosing the right pumpkin is essential for achieving a delicious filling. Choose pumpkins that are heavy and have smooth skin.
- If you have leftover dough, you can use it for other sweet or savory pies.
- Pumpkin pie keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of pumpkin pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. It can help improve digestive health and support the immune system.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin is a quick and convenient alternative, but make sure to choose the version without additives.

2. How can I make the pie less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.

3. Is it possible to make the pie vegan?
Yes, replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water or with a mashed banana and use plant-based milk.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Prepare this easy-to-make pumpkin pie and enjoy the flavors of autumn in every bite. It is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of warmth and comfort to the cooler days. Enjoy!