Go Back
A delectable Pumpkin Pie sits ready to be enjoyed in this featured image.
Lady Maria

Perfect Pumpkin Pie

This recipe guides you to pumpkin pie perfection, focusing on the science of custard and the importance of a flaky crust. By mastering techniques like pre-baking the crust and baking at a low temperature, you'll achieve a creamy, flavorful pie that's sure to impress.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup cold vegetable shortening, cut into cubes
  • 4-6 tablespoons ice water
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • whisk
  • Pastry blender or fingers
  • Plastic wrap
  • Rolling Pin
  • 9-inch pie plate
  • Fork
  • parchment paper
  • Pie weights or dried beans
  • Preheated oven
  • wire rack
  • Refrigerator

Method
 

  1. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the butter and shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prebake the Crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.
  3. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Bake the Pie: Pour the filling into the prebaked crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center.
  5. Cool and Chill: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. Then, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

For a crisp crust, ensure the butter and shortening are very cold. Blind baking the crust is crucial to prevent a soggy bottom. Adjust spices to your preference, but remember that less is more. Bake at a lower temperature to avoid cracking. Cool completely before chilling to prevent condensation. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.