Pumpkin and walnut pie
Pumpkin and Walnut Pie Grandma's Style - An Unforgettable Recipe
Who doesn't love the pleasant aroma of pumpkin pie, a dessert that evokes childhood memories and the warmth of home? This simple recipe, inspired by my grandmother, transforms pumpkin into a sweet delight, wrapped in a flaky crust, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a holiday meal or as a quick dessert, pumpkin and walnut pie is always an inspired choice.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 500 g pumpkin (about 1/2 medium pumpkin)
- 200 g sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon (to taste)
- 150 g chopped walnuts (optional, but recommended)
For the crust:
- 2 tablespoons lard (or butter for a lighter version)
- 100 ml cold water
- Flour, as needed (about 400-500 g)
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons milk
Preparing the pumpkin
1. Grating the pumpkin: Start by peeling the pumpkin and grating it on a large grater. This step helps release the natural juices from the pumpkin, which will add moisture to the filling.
2. Cooking the pumpkin: Place the grated pumpkin in a pan, add the sugar and cinnamon. Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the pumpkin becomes soft and no longer has juice (about 10-15 minutes). Finally, add the chopped walnuts and mix well. Let the filling cool.
Preparing the crust
3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lard with the flour, gradually adding the flour until you achieve a homogeneous but buttery mixture. Then add the cold water and knead gently until the dough becomes elastic. Don’t worry if it seems too soft; this is the secret to a flaky pie.
4. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover them with plastic wrap or a damp towel to prevent drying out.
Forming the pies
5. Rolling out the dough: On a floured work surface, roll out the first ball of dough as thin as possible. A thin sheet will allow the filling to shine.
6. Adding the filling: Evenly distribute the pumpkin filling over the rolled-out dough. The next step is rolling it up; make sure to do it tightly but not too tight, so as not to crush the filling.
7. Cutting and placing: Cut the roll into pieces of desired size. Score the top of each piece with a sharp knife to allow steam to escape during baking. Place them in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Baking
8. Preparing for the oven: In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with the 2 tablespoons of milk and brush each piece of pie with this mixture. Add a little lard on top for extra flavor.
9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pies for 35-40 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Serving
10. Finishing: Once the pies are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a special look.
Helpful tips
- Roasted pumpkin version: For a more intense flavor, you can roast the pumpkin in advance until it becomes soft. This will have a more concentrated aroma.
- Substitutions: You can use butter instead of lard to achieve a less greasy but less flavorful crust. Additionally, walnuts can be replaced with almonds or hazelnuts, depending on preferences.
- Serving: Pumpkin pie is delicious served warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutritional benefits
Pumpkin is rich in fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants, making it an excellent ingredient for a healthy dessert. Walnuts add protein and healthy fats, contributing to a rich and satisfying taste.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, canned pumpkin is a convenient option, but make sure to choose a product without added sugar.
- How can I store the pies? These pies store well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
This pumpkin and walnut pie recipe is not only a delight but also a wonderful way to reminisce about the good times spent with loved ones. Whether you make it for a special occasion or simply to treat your family, I’m sure it will quickly become one of your favorites! Enjoy every bite and savor the enticing flavors of this classic dessert!
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of lard, 100 ml of water, flour as needed, 1 egg yolk + 2 tablespoons of milk, pumpkin, 200 g of sugar, chopped nuts, cinnamon
