Pumpkin pie

Pumpkin pie is a traditional dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every slice. This simple and quick pumpkin pie recipe will transform basic ingredients into an easy-to-make delight, perfect for any occasion. Additionally, pumpkin pie is an excellent choice for the colder season, when the warm flavors of cinnamon and lemon provide a sense of warmth and well-being.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:

Filling:
- 1/2 large pumpkin (approximately 1.5 kg peeled)
- 200 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt

Dough:
- 200 g butter (or oil, for a lighter version)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 200 g sour cream
- 200-300 g flour (depending on the desired consistency)
- Zest of one lemon
- Juice of one lemon

Step-by-step preparation of pumpkin pie:

1. Preparing the filling:
- Start by washing the pumpkin. Remove the seeds and cut it into smaller pieces. This step is not only practical but will help you achieve a smooth puree.
- Boil the pumpkin pieces in salted water. When the pumpkin becomes soft (about 15-20 minutes), remove it from the water and let it cool slightly.
- Peel the pumpkin and mash it using a blender or a fork until you achieve a fine puree.
- Add 200 g of sugar and cinnamon to the pumpkin puree and mix well. Taste the filling and adjust the sugar or cinnamon to your preference.

2. Preparing the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the butter (or oil) with 100 g of sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to achieve a fluffy cream.
- Add the egg and sour cream, mixing well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Continue by adding the lemon zest and juice, which will bring a fresh and aromatic note.
- Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing until you achieve a firmer dough. If you add too much flour, the dough will become dry, so adjust the amount according to the desired consistency.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a tender and manageable dough.

3. Assembling the pie:
- Once the dough has cooled, divide it into two equal parts. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the first sheet of dough, ensuring it is large enough to cover the bottom of a baking tray.
- Place the first sheet in the tray and pour the pumpkin filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll out the second sheet of dough and cover the filling. Seal the edges with your fingers or a fork to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

4. Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy.
- Once done, remove the pie from the oven and brush it with a little milk to give it a special shine.

5. Serving:
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes. Then, dust it with powdered sugar before cutting it into slices. It is delicious both warm and cold and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea.

Practical tips:
- Pumpkin: Choose a pumpkin that is firm and heavy for its size. Hokkaido or Butternut pumpkins are excellent for filling due to their fine texture and natural sweetness.
- Flour: If you want a lighter pie, you can replace the butter with sunflower oil or coconut oil. This is a healthier option but retains the same delicious flavors.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or ground hazelnuts to the pumpkin filling for added texture. Additionally, you can experiment with other spices like ginger or nutmeg to diversify the flavors.
- Storing the pie: If you have leftovers, the pie can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap. You can easily reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making it very beneficial for digestive health. It is also low in calories, making it a fantastic choice for healthier desserts.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, you can use canned pumpkin, but make sure it is unsweetened to avoid altering the taste of the pie.
- How can I make the pie less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a sweeter pumpkin to compensate.
- What drinks pair well with pumpkin pie? A jasmine tea or an almond milk latte would perfectly complement the flavors of the pie.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Pumpkin pie is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that will bring joy and warmth to every serving. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and the delights you create!

 Ingredients: 1/2 large pumpkin (3kg) 200g sugar 1 egg 200g sour cream 200g butter (oil) 200-300g flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon zest of one lemon and juice a pinch of salt