Introduction
Indulge in a delightful autumn treat with this creamy pumpkin pie adorned with a crunchy graham cracker crust. This recipe not only captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and pumpkin flavor but also provides a luscious whipped cream topping that perfectly complements the richness of the pie. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy dessert at home, this pumpkin pie is sure to impress your friends and family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
*For the Crust:*
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
*For the Filling:*
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
*For the Whipped Cream Topping:*
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and pumpkin pie spice.
Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
3. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Cover and refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or until set.
4. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar.
Whip the mixture using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
5. Serve:
Before serving, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or additional pumpkin pie spice.
Slice and serve chilled.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Add melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
Prepare the Filling:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and pumpkin pie spice. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Pie:
Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate the pie for at least 3 hours, or until set.
Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:
In a mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Whip the mixture using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Serve:
Before serving, spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or additional pumpkin pie spice. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Crust Texture:
Ensure the graham cracker crust is pressed firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing the pie.
Thickening the Filling:
Stirring constantly while the filling cooks is essential for preventing lumps and achieving a smooth texture.
Chilling Time:
Allowing the pie to chill for at least 3 hours helps it set properly, enhancing the flavor and texture.
Whipped Cream Consistency:
Whip the cream until stiff peaks form to achieve the best frosting consistency for the pie topping.
Garnishing Options:
Consider adding chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or toasted nuts for additional decoration and flavor enhancement.
Cook techniques
Preparation of Graham Cracker Crust
Combining graham cracker crumbs with sugar and melted butter creates a flavorful and textured base. Ensure that the butter is fully incorporated for an even crust.
Chilling the Crust
Refrigerate the crust to allow it to firm up, which helps it maintain its shape when you pour in the filling.
Thickening the Filling
Cooking the filling over medium heat while stirring constantly is crucial. This ensures the cornstarch activates, thickening the mixture to the right consistency.
Incorporating Ingredients
Add vanilla extract and pumpkin puree after removing the filling from the heat for the best flavor retention and smooth consistency.
Setting the Pie
Refrigerating the assembled pie for at least 3 hours helps it to fully set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Whipping Cream to Stiff Peaks
Whipping the heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form creates a light and airy topping that complements the dense pumpkin filling.
Garnishing the Pie
Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice before serving enhances the visual appeal and flavor of the finished pie.
FAQ
Can I use homemade graham cracker crumbs for the crust?
Yes, homemade graham cracker crumbs can be used for the crust. Just ensure they are finely crushed and the ratios of sugar and butter remain the same.
What can I substitute for cornstarch?
You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of flour or arrowroot powder, though it may slightly alter the texture of the filling.
How long can the pie be stored in the refrigerator?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives such as coconut milk for the filling and a dairy-free whipped topping.
Can I freeze the pumpkin pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pumpkin pie for up to 2 months. However, the texture of the whipped cream may change after freezing, so it is best to add it fresh when serving.
Conclusion
This delightful pumpkin pie features a creamy filling nestled in a crisp graham cracker crust, topped with light and fluffy whipped cream. The combination of pumpkin and warm spices makes it a perfect dessert for fall and festive occasions, satisfying all pumpkin lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Gingersnap Crust Pumpkin Pie
Swap out the graham cracker crust for a spicy gingersnap crust for an added kick of flavor.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie
Incorporate cream cheese into the pumpkin filling for a richer, cheesecake-style dessert.
Chocolate Pumpkin Swirl Pie
Add melted chocolate to the pumpkin filling and swirl it for a decadent twist on the traditional pie.
Pumpkin Pie Parfaits
Layer the pumpkin filling and whipped cream in individual glasses for a fun and elegant presentation.
Maple Pumpkin Pie
Replace some of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Pie
Infuse coffee flavor into the filling to create a dessert that mimics the beloved pumpkin spice latte flavor combination.
