Pumpkin pie

Caramelized Pumpkin Pie – A Flavorful Autumn Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

If you want to fill your home with the unmistakable aroma of caramelized pumpkin, this pumpkin pie recipe is just what you need. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe that combines the fluffy texture of the crust with the sweet and fragrant pumpkin filling. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this pie will bring a smile to every family member's face.

Ingredients for the crust:
- 7 tablespoons of sugar
- 7 tablespoons of oil
- 7 tablespoons of milk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of vinegar
- Flour, as needed (approximately 400-500 g, depending on humidity)

Ingredients for the filling:
- 1.5 kg of peeled and grated pumpkin
- 1 large cup of sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

Instructions:

1. Preparing the crust: Start by combining the sugar, oil, and milk in a saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Then, let the mixture come to a boil and boil for 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps activate the flavors.

2. Activating the baking soda: In a small bowl, beat the egg with a teaspoon of baking soda, which you will quench with a teaspoon of vinegar. This will create a fizzy reaction that will help the dough become fluffy and airy.

3. Mixing the ingredients: After the 2 minutes of boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the egg and baking soda mixture. Mix well, then gradually add the flour, stirring continuously until you obtain a smooth but not sticky dough. It’s important not to add too much flour to avoid a dense dough.

4. Kneading the dough: Once you have a dough, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each part on a floured surface until you get thin sheets.

5. Preparing the filling: In a non-stick saucepan, add the grated pumpkin, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Sauté the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin softens and caramelizes, about 15-20 minutes. This step is essential to intensify the pumpkin flavor and create a delicious filling.

6. Assembling the pie: Place the first sheet of dough in a baking dish, then add the pumpkin filling, leveling it evenly. Cover with the second sheet of dough and gently press the edges to seal the pie.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and bake the pie for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes golden and brown. I recommend keeping an eye on it during the last 10 minutes to ensure it doesn’t burn.

8. Cooling and serving: Once the pie is baked, let it cool completely in the dish. Once cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look. It can be served plain or alongside a scoop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream – a perfect contrast to the intense pumpkin flavor.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the pumpkin is fresh and well-ripened for the best flavor.
- You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- If you don’t have vanilla sugar, you can use vanilla extract.
- Check the pie with a cake tester; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.

Nutritional benefits:
Pumpkin is a nutritious ingredient, rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. This pumpkin pie can be a healthier option than other desserts due to its vegetable content.

Calories:
A serving of pumpkin pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and oil used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, canned pumpkin is an excellent alternative if you don’t have fresh pumpkin on hand.
- How can I store the pie? The pie stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze the pie? Absolutely! The pie can be frozen before baking or after it has been baked. Just make sure it is well covered.

Interesting variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the pumpkin filling for added texture.
- Instead of regular sugar, experiment with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

This caramelized pumpkin pie is not just a dessert, but also a cooking experience that will remind you of the beautiful moments spent with family. I invite you to try this recipe at home and enjoy every slice! Whether you serve it at a festive meal or simply on a quiet afternoon, its taste will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones. Enjoy!