This recipe for homemade pumpkin pie has been in the family as long as I can remember, and it is the BEST I have ever had. Honestly, I cannot believe I am letting the secret be known. My step-mom, Kathie, is the genius behind this recipe and has been making it for years. Since I begin baking pumpkin pies, I have tried other recipes but always come back to this one. The secret? Using homemade pumpkin puree and a kick-ass crust!
If you are intimidated by making your own homemade puree, I completely understand as I was the first time too. A little secret, the first time I made, I forgot about the pumpkin roasting and it was burnt! All it takes is some patience and a timer, and you can have really amazing pumpkin puree at home. If making your own puree, is not your thing, no worries as you can use canned it works just as well.
The secret ingredients in this recipe besides the homemade puree is a splash of cognac; which is completely optional and the recipe is just as good without. Over the years, I have moved to use bourbon or rye, because we enjoy it more than cognac. Use whatever tickles your fancy. Maybe rum?
The end result is a rich, creamy custard based pumpkin pie that is not overly sweet, and all you need is a dollop of whipped cream to finish it off.
Homemade Pumpkin Pie
This homemade pumkin pie recipe has been in the family for years, it is rich and creamy with a custard base. Using homemade pumpkin puree takes it to the next level but feel free to use canned if pressed for time.
Ingredients
- 1 partial baked pie crust
- 2 1/2 cup homemade or canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup of light brown sugar
- 6 medium eggs
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/3 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 cup of bourbon, rye, or cognac
Instructions
Preheat oven to 450.
Combine all ingredients, except pie shell, in the order given and beat until thoroughly blended. You can do this by hand or with your mixer.
Pour into a partially baked pie crust.
Egg wash the pie crust.
Place on a cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes.
Reduce heat to 325 degrees and bake for an additional 45 – 50 minutes. You may have to cover with foil if it is getting too dark.
Pie is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool - at least two hours or overnight
Serve.
Eat.
Notes
Do not cut into this pie right away, let it cool to set the filling. At least two hours, preferrably overnight. Over with foil and set aside on the counter.
Lisa Cain
Tuesday 27th of October 2009
My favorite tradition is to make a cranberry and horseradish dressing - it is so delicious and goes great with Turkey and all the other fixin's Lisa https://www.snacksnoop.com
Stephen
Tuesday 27th of October 2009
My favorite tradition? Carving the turkey, while all my in-laws hover around, waiting for me to turn my back so they can grab some of the skin. OK, not exactly a favorite, but it's a tradition nonetheless. Thanks for this great recipe - I'm going to try it!
Kristina
Monday 26th of October 2009
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I like that there's no gift-giving obligation, only the obligation to feed people and feed them well. :-) My mom and I have been cooking Thanksgiving dinner for family and friends (usually 20+ people) for my whole life. I've only missed it once, the year I was traveling RTW. Our tradition? Every year she burns the rolls. Not intentionally, but for some reason it always happens and it's become a running joke.
Noelle
Monday 26th of October 2009
One of our yealry traditions is for specific people to bake and cook specific items. I always make the pies, my sister makes the sides and my mom makes the turkey. We then sit around and share what we are MOST thankful, at least what we were most thankful for during the year. Our new tradition since being married is making sure we spend it with people that do not have family and enjoy the wonderful fellowship!
The Healthy Apple
Sunday 25th of October 2009
What a delicious pumpkin pie recipe, thank you....I can't wait to meet you out in San Fran for the Foodbuzz Festival!!!! I love making Thanksgiving dinner at my home...it's a tradition of ours to go around the table and give thanks to what we are most proud of and thankful for...each of us takes a turn while we all hold hands and break a piece of bread and each take a piece when we speak.... Great Giveaway---I would love to win that cookbook....have a great night!!!