Pumpkin pie

Pumpkin pie – a classic delight that combines sweetness and the aroma of autumn, managing to enchant even those most reluctant to the taste of pumpkin. This simple and quick recipe will transform any meal into a celebration of flavors. Perfect for special occasions or simply to indulge yourself day by day, this pie will surely become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

*Filling:*
- 900 g pumpkin (peeled and seeded)
- 300 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

*Dough:*
- 4 eggs
- a pinch of salt
- 16 tablespoons sugar
- 16 tablespoons oil
- 8 tablespoons sour cream (or yogurt)
- 8 tablespoons sparkling water
- vanilla essence (to taste)
- 16 tablespoons flour
- 1 packet of baking powder (10 g)

*Optional:*
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar for decoration

Pan size: 27/37 cm

Preparing the filling:

1. Grate the pumpkin: Start by peeling the pumpkin, removing the skin and seeds. Use a small grater or a food processor to get grated pumpkin. This step is essential, as grated pumpkin will be easier to cook and will absorb the sugar and spices better.

2. Sauté the pumpkin: In a deep skillet, add the grated pumpkin and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the pumpkin loses all its juice. This process will concentrate the flavors and turn the pumpkin into a delicious filling. If you find the pumpkin remains too hard, feel free to add a little water to soften it.

3. Add the cinnamon: Once the pumpkin has thickened, add the cinnamon and mix well. Here you can customize the recipe by adding other spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, for an extra flavor boost.

Preparing the dough:

1. Preheat the oven: Before starting on the dough, turn on the oven to 180°C (350°F), so it’s well heated when you put the pie in.

2. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, add the eggs, salt, and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes a light, frothy yellow. This step is crucial for ensuring a fluffy and airy texture for the pie.

3. Add the wet ingredients: Next, add the oil, sour cream, sparkling water, and vanilla essence. Mix well to homogenize the composition. The sparkling water will contribute to a fluffier texture due to the gas bubbles it contains.

4. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Finally, sift the flour and baking powder over the wet mixture and mix on low speed until everything is homogeneous. Do not overmix, as this can cause the pie to become dense.

Assembling the pie:

1. Prepare the pan: Grease the pan with oil to prevent the pie from sticking. This step is important for easily removing the pie after baking.

2. Pour the dough: Pour half of the dough into the prepared pan and place it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dough starts to set but is not fully baked.

3. Add the filling: Remove the pan from the oven and spread the pumpkin filling evenly over the first layer of dough. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed for consistent baking.

4. Finish with the dough: Pour the remaining dough over the filling and return the pan to the oven. Bake the pie for about 30-35 minutes or until it is nicely browned on top. A useful trick is to check if it’s baked by inserting a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready!

5. Cooling and serving: After the pie is baked, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Finally, dust with powdered sugar if you want an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving suggestions:

This pumpkin pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for a perfect contrast of temperatures and textures. Additionally, a caramel sauce or chocolate sauce would beautifully complement this dessert.

Nutritional benefits:

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, helping to strengthen the immune system and maintain skin health. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that may help protect the body against oxidative stress. Whole wheat flour, if used, adds essential fiber for healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned pumpkin?
Of course! Canned pumpkin is a convenient alternative and can save time, but make sure to choose a product without additives and added sugar.

2. How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, ensuring it is well covered.

3. What variations can I try?
Experiment with various spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, or add nuts or raisins to the filling for an extra texture. You can also replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

This pumpkin pie recipe is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that will remind you of the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious dessert at home, you are on the right path to creating a memorable dish. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Filling: 900 g pumpkin, peeled and seeded; 300 g sugar; one teaspoon ground cinnamon. Dough: 4 eggs; a pinch of salt; 16 tablespoons sugar; 16 tablespoons oil; 8 tablespoons sour cream; 8 tablespoons sparkling water; vanilla extract; 16 tablespoons flour; one packet of baking powder (10 g). Optional: one tablespoon powdered sugar. Pan size: 27/37 cm.

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