Pumpkin Pie with Nut Crumble

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked pumpkin pie filling your kitchen. Pumpkin pie with nut crumble is a delightful twist on the traditional dessert that combines the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with a crunchy nut topping. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, autumn gatherings, or any time you want to indulge in a seasonal treat. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this delicious pie, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions.

The Allure of Pumpkin Pie with Nut Crumble

Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert loved for its creamy filling and spiced flavor. The addition of a nut crumble topping adds an exciting texture and enhances the flavor profile, giving the pie a satisfying crunch. This combination creates a beautiful contrast between the smooth pumpkin filling and the nutty topping, making each bite a delightful experience. This pie is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dessert table.

Ingredients You'll Need

To create pumpkin pie with nut crumble, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/4 cups. The base for your pie crust.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), chilled and cubed. Essential for a flaky texture.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons. Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon. Enhances the flavor of the crust.
• Ice Water: 3-4 tablespoons. Helps bring the dough together.

For the Pumpkin Filling:

• Canned Pumpkin Puree: 1 can (15 ounces). Look for pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup. Sweetens the filling.
• Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, packed. Adds depth and moisture.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon. Provides warmth and spice.
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon. Enhances the flavor with a hint of sweetness.
• Ground Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a zesty kick.
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon. Balances the sweetness.
• Evaporated Milk: 1 can (12 ounces). Creates a rich, creamy filling.
• Eggs: 2 large. Acts as a binder for the filling.

For the Nut Crumble:

• Nuts: 1 cup (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds), chopped. Provides crunch and flavor.
• Brown Sugar: 1/3 cup. Adds sweetness to the crumble.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/3 cup. Helps bind the crumble.
• Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds warmth.
• Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick), melted. Binds the crumble together.

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Pie Crust

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.

Add Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, salt, evaporated milk, and eggs. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

3. Make the Nut Crumble

In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped nuts, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and up the sides.

5. Assemble the Pie

Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust. Sprinkle the nut crumble evenly over the top of the filling.

6. Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crumble is golden brown. If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.

7. Cool the Pie

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes for easier serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pumpkin pie with nut crumble can be enjoyed in various delightful ways:

• With Whipped Cream: Serve slices topped with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Warm or Cold: Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or chilled—each way offers a different experience.
• As a Breakfast Treat: Leftover slices can be enjoyed for breakfast alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pumpkin Pie

1. Chill the Dough: Properly chilling the dough helps prevent shrinking during baking and ensures a flaky crust.

2. Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spices for a more vibrant flavor. Store spices in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency.

3. Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the pie crust, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough texture.

4. Check for Doneness: The filling should be set with a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up as it cools.

Variations to Try

1. Spiced Pumpkin Pie: Add a blend of spices like cloves or allspice to the filling for a more complex flavor.

2. Chocolate Pumpkin Pie: Mix in chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling for a decadent twist.

3. Maple Pumpkin Pie: Substitute some of the sugar with maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor.

4. Gluten-Free Crust: Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version of this pie.

Conclusion

Making pumpkin pie with nut crumble is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. The combination of creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy nut topping creates a dessert that is sure to please everyone at your table. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create your own beautiful pumpkin pie to enjoy with family and friends. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of this seasonal favorite!

If you need any further modifications or additional information, feel free to let me know!