Ingredients
The key to this pie lies in selecting the right ingredients that complement each other without overpowering the delicate creaminess. Growing up, my mum always said that the best dishes start with quality basics. For this pie, fresh pumpkin puree, real cream, and just the right blend of warming spices bring that authentic fall feeling to life. If you’re using canned pumpkin, make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pie filling to control sweetness and spice better.
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, unsweetened)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made or homemade 9-inch pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a homemade crust, blind bake it for about 10 minutes to prevent sogginess.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This is where patience pays off—make sure the mixture is fully combined for an even texture.
- Add the heavy cream gradually, whisking gently to fold it in without deflating the air you’ve built up. The cream is what gives this pie its signature silkiness.
- Sprinkle in the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt, then whisk again until the spices are evenly distributed. I like to smell the mixture here—it’s like autumn in a bowl.
- Pour the filling into your prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to settle the filling and release any air bubbles.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the pan. This ensures the cream layer stays luscious and not rubbery.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Chill it in the fridge for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to let all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Before serving, top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra touch of homey charm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
