Butternut Pie With or Without Crust
Description
If you adore the flavors of pumpkin pie, you’ll find this Butternut Pie to be an absolute delight! Perfect for those festive occasions like Christmas and Thanksgiving, this pie can be served with a generous dollop of whipped cream. For a twist, it can also be made without a crust by simply spraying oil lightly in the pan before pouring in the filling. Butternut squash, often referred to as the African Bell, provides a unique and rich flavor profile that is both comforting and versatile. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for large gatherings.
Ingredients
- Pureed Squash (Butternut, Acorn, or any hard winter squash)
- 12 oz evaporated milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 105.5
- Fat Content: 2.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1.4g
- Cholesterol Content: 59mg
- Sodium Content: 40.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 15.5g
- Fiber Content: 0.5g
- Sugar Content: 12.6g
- Protein Content: 3.1g
Servings
- Recipe Yield: 2 pies
- Recipe Servings: 16
Cooking and Preparation Times
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Keywords
- Dessert
- Vegetable
- Winter
- Christmas
- Thanksgiving
- For Large Groups
- < 4 Hours
- Easy
Instructions
-
Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pureed squash, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and allspice until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
-
Prepare the Crust:
- If using a pie crust, pour the prepared filling into the crust. If making a crustless pie, lightly spray a pie pan with oil and then pour in the filling.
-
Initial Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie(s) in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. This initial high temperature helps to set the filling and develop a rich color on top.
-
Lower the Temperature:
- After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue baking for an additional 45 minutes. The pie is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack. Serve with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Perfect Butternut Pie
- Pureeing Squash: To puree butternut squash, you can follow Recipe #194908 or your preferred method. Typically, this involves roasting or steaming the squash until tender, then blending it until smooth.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Adding a pinch of cloves or a bit more nutmeg can deepen the flavor profile.
- Crust Options: This recipe is versatile and works well with a traditional pie crust, a graham cracker crust, or even a gingersnap crust for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations
- Crustless Version: For a lower-carb option or simply a different texture, make the pie without a crust. Just ensure your pie pan is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Mini Pies: Divide the filling among several smaller pie pans or even muffin tins for individual servings. Adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness earlier.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Besides whipped cream, consider topping your Butternut Pie with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Pairings: Serve with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or a dessert wine for a delightful end to any meal.
Reviews and Ratings
With an aggregated rating of 4.5 stars from 2 reviews, this Butternut Pie has been well-received for its delightful flavor and ease of preparation. Reviewers have praised its resemblance to traditional pumpkin pie and its versatility in serving options.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ease of Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Versatility: The option to make it with or without a crust allows for customization based on dietary preferences or available ingredients.
- Flavor: The combination of butternut squash and warm spices creates a comforting and delicious pie that’s perfect for the holidays or any cozy winter gathering.
Enjoy making this Butternut Pie, and may it bring warmth and joy to your table!
