Baked pumpkin pie
Pumpkin Pie – The Delight of Autumn
Who can resist a slice of pumpkin pie, with its inviting aroma and perfect texture? This recipe, not only simple but also rich in tradition, combines natural ingredients with a love for cooking, offering a dessert that is truly special. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for holiday meals or for a simple afternoon spent with loved ones.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 20 tablespoons warm water
- 18 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 cube of fresh yeast
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- a pinch of salt
- Flour as needed (about 1 kg, but add gradually)
For the filling:
- 4 slices of baked pumpkin
- 1 knob of butter (or 1 teaspoon of palm oil for a vegan option)
- Sugar and cinnamon to taste
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon rum essence
Steps to Follow
1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the warm water with the oil, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the yeast and mix well. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until the yeast starts to bubble and doubles in volume. This is a crucial step, as active yeast is what will make your dough rise and become fluffy.
2. Forming the dough
Once the yeast has risen, gradually add flour, kneading with your hands or using a mixer with a dough hook. Continue adding flour until the dough no longer sticks to your fingers. It's important not to overdo it with the flour; a dough that is too dry will result in a dense pie.
3. Letting the dough rise
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for 15 minutes in a warm place. During this time, the aroma will begin to develop, and you will achieve a lighter dough.
4. Preparing the filling
Peel the pumpkin slices and scoop out the flesh. In a pan, melt the butter (or palm oil for the vegan option) over low heat. Add the diced pumpkin, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla sugar, and rum essence. Mix well and let it sauté for 7-8 minutes. The pumpkin should become soft and fragrant.
5. Assembling the pie
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first part on a floured surface, forming a thin sheet. Place the sheet in the baking pan, ensuring it reaches the edges. Bake for 5 minutes, then remove the pan from the oven.
6. Adding the filling
Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the first sheet of dough. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it on top of the filling. Meanwhile, poke it with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
7. Baking the pie
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the pie turns golden. The aromas will fill the kitchen, and you’ll be eager to take it out!
8. Cooling and serving
Once the pie is baked, let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Then, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a more elegant appearance. A slice of baked pumpkin pie is best served with a smile on your face and perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea.
Useful Tips
- Choose the right pumpkin: Hokkaido or butternut squash are the best choices for pumpkin pie, thanks to their natural sweetness and creamy texture.
- Baking the pumpkin: You can roast the pumpkin in the oven at 200°C for 30-40 minutes until soft. Another option is to steam it to retain all the nutrients.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture or use spices like ginger or cloves to enhance the flavor.
- Storing the pie: Pumpkin pie keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it’s also delicious if frozen! Just make sure it’s well covered.
Nutritional Benefits
Pumpkin is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for eye health and the immune system. It also contains fiber, which aids digestion and can help maintain a healthy weight. This pie is not just a tasty dessert, but it also offers a range of nutritional benefits!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned pumpkin?
Yes, you can use canned pumpkin, but make sure it is not sweetened.
2. What can I use instead of sunflower oil?
You can use olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor.
3. How can I make the pie less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling, adjusting the taste to your preferences.
4. What other desserts can I try with pumpkin?
Pumpkin is also wonderful in muffins, cakes, or even in smoothies!
Wishing you great success in making this delicious pie! Don’t forget to share your experience with loved ones and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: Dough: 20 tablespoons warm water, 18 tablespoons sunflower oil, 1 cube yeast, 3 tablespoons sugar, a pinch of salt, flour as needed. Filling: 4 slices of baked pumpkin, a knob of butter, sugar and cinnamon to taste, vanilla sugar, 1 teaspoon rum essence.
