Pumpkin pie in a Crock Pot slow cooker

Pumpkin Pie in a Crock Pot Slow Cooker

When it comes to desserts that remind us of warm autumn days, pumpkin pie is definitely a favorite. This simple and delicious recipe, prepared in a Crock Pot slow cooker, will transform fresh pumpkin into a sweet delight, perfect for any occasion. Plus, slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and blend perfectly, resulting in a pie with a wonderful texture and irresistible taste.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pumpkin (preferably pie pumpkin, but any sweet pumpkin will do)
- 150 g sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 20 g butter
- Spices: 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar or 1 vanilla bean, a pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- Pie sheets (about 10-12 sheets, depending on the size of the slow cooker)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the pumpkin: Start by grating the pumpkin. You can use a grater or a food processor, which will make the job much easier. Make sure the pumpkin is clean and cut into suitable pieces for easier preparation.

2. Cooking the pumpkin: Transfer the grated pumpkin to a saucepan and add the butter, cinnamon, and vanilla sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin becomes soft and transforms into a smooth puree. This step will take about 10-15 minutes. You can use an immersion blender to achieve a super smooth puree.

3. Assembling the layers: Start assembling the pie in the slow cooker. Tear two thin sheets of pie dough and place them at the bottom of the cooker. Continue alternating layers of pie sheets with the pumpkin puree. This means: one layer of sheets, one layer of puree, repeating until all ingredients are used up. Ideally, you should have three layers of sheets and two layers of pumpkin puree.

4. Setting the slow cooker: Once you have finished assembling, place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to "high" for 3 hours. During this time, the flavor of the pumpkin will blend with the other ingredients, and the pie sheets will turn into a delicious crust.

5. Finishing the dish: After 3 hours, check the pie. It should be well-baked with a slightly browned crust. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Serving suggestions:
Pumpkin pie can be served warm or at room temperature. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra flavor. A dusting of powdered sugar on top will add an elegant touch.

Possible variations:
- Add chopped nuts or almonds between the layers of pie sheets for extra crunch.
- Replace cinnamon with other spices like ginger or cloves for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Pumpkin is a nutrient-rich ingredient, being an excellent source of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. It is low in calories, making it a great choice for healthy desserts.

Calories: A serving of pumpkin pie has approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and butter used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin can be used, but make sure it is pure pumpkin without additives.

2. How can I make the pie less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

3. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Caramelized apples or pears can be perfectly integrated into this recipe, adding extra flavor.

With this pumpkin pie in a slow cooker, we guarantee you'll bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. It's simple, flavorful, and perfect to enjoy with a good book or in the company of friends. Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to explore, experiment, and, most importantly, enjoy! Bon appétit!