Pumpkin pie

Pumpkin Pie: a flavorful and comforting delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Who doesn’t love a slice of steaming pumpkin pie with a perfect crust and sweet, aromatic filling? This pumpkin pie recipe, also known as 'placintar', combines simple ingredients in a way that brings together pleasant childhood memories. Pumpkin is a versatile ingredient used in kitchens around the world, and pumpkin pie is a perfect dessert for any occasion, from autumn meals to winter holidays.

The ingredients you will use are accessible, and the result will surely be impressive. Let’s get started!

Ingredients needed

*For the dough:*
- 1 cup oil (about 150 ml)
- 1 cup sparkling water (about 150 ml)
- 1 cup sugar (about 200 g)
- 1 package butter (about 200 g), at room temperature
- 500 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 packet baking powder
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Grated zest of one orange

*For the filling:*
- 450 g grated pumpkin flesh
- 5 tablespoons sugar (about 75 g)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the dough
Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar and soft butter using a whisk or mixer. Make sure the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Add the oil and the sparkling water in which you dissolved the baking soda. Mix well to combine the wet ingredients. Add a pinch of salt, the grated lemon and orange zest, which will bring a fresh and vibrant taste to the pie.

2. Incorporate the flour
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet composition, stirring constantly until you obtain a soft, but not too sticky dough. It is important not to over-knead the dough; it should be elastic and easy to roll out. Once the dough is ready, cover it with a towel and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

3. Preparing the pumpkin filling
Meanwhile, peel the pumpkin and remove the seeds, then grate it on a large grater. Place it in a pot over medium heat, adding the sugar and cinnamon. Stir constantly until the pumpkin softens and starts to release a delicious syrup, about 10-15 minutes. Once the pumpkin is ready, let it cool slightly.

4. Assembling the pie
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Prepare a 26 x 30 cm baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Spread the first half of the dough in the prepared tray, smoothing it out well. Add the pumpkin filling, making sure to distribute it evenly. Then, roll out the other half of the dough over the filling, covering it completely. It doesn’t have to be perfect; a rustic look adds charm to the pie.

5. Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 40 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy. It is important to check the pie from time to time; you can cover it with aluminum foil if it starts to brown too quickly.

6. Cooling and serving
After the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will allow the filling to set, making the pie easier to cut. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar or alongside vanilla ice cream.

Practical tips
- If you want to make the pie healthier, you can replace some of the sugar with honey or natural sweeteners.
- Add chopped nuts or raisins to the pumpkin filling for an interesting texture.
- This pie keeps well in the fridge for a few days, but it’s best when freshly baked.

Nutritional benefits
Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin A), and antioxidants, contributing to immune system health and beautiful skin. This pie not only brings a sweet taste but also nutritional benefits, making it an excellent choice for desserts.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, canned pumpkin can be used instead of fresh pumpkin, but make sure it is well drained of excess liquid.
- What other flavors can I add? Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a more complex taste.
- How can I serve the pie? It is delicious alongside whipped cream, ice cream, or even with caramel sauce.

This pumpkin pie is more than just a simple dessert; it’s a way to bring family and friends together around a table full of joy and warmth. So gather the ingredients and let yourself be inspired by this old but always relevant recipe. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 1 cup oil 1 cup sparkling water 1 cup sugar 1 pack butter 500 g flour salt 2 eggs grated lemon and orange peel 1 packet baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda. For the filling: 450 g grated pumpkin pulp 5 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon.

 Tags:  pumpkin pie