🥧🍂 Autumn Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie 🍂🥧
Autumn Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie is a delectable dessert that perfectly captures the flavors and spirit of the fall season. It combines the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin with the creamy goodness of cream cheese, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. This dessert is a delightful addition to any autumn gathering and is a favorite during Thanksgiving and other fall festivities.
📜 History:
Pumpkin pie has a long history in the United States, with its roots dating back to the early American colonies. The indigenous people of North America had been using pumpkins in their cooking for centuries. Pumpkin pie, as we know it today, evolved over time and became a staple of American Thanksgiving feasts. The incorporation of cream cheese into pumpkin pie recipes added a creamy and tangy twist, making it even more irresistible.
🥘 Components:
- Pie Crust: You can use a pre-made pie crust or make your own with flour, butter, and a pinch of salt.
- Pumpkin Filling: This consists of pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract are blended together for a rich and creamy layer.
- Whipped Cream: Optional but highly recommended for topping.
📝 Steps to Prepare Autumn Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie:
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Prepare the Pie Crust:
- If using a pre-made crust, follow the instructions on the package.
- If making your own, combine flour and salt, then cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes. Roll out the dough and fit it into a pie pan.
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Pre-bake the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
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Prepare the Pumpkin Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, eggs, and the spices. Mix until well blended.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.
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Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In another mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the pumpkin layer.
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Bake the Pie:
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
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Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully chilled.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
⏰ Preparation Time:
- The total time needed for this delicious pie is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including preparation and baking, with an additional chilling time of at least 4 hours.
Enjoy your 🥧🍂 Autumn Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie 🍂🥧! It’s a delightful treat that embodies the cozy flavors of the fall season. 🍁🎃🍰
📊 Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Autumn Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie 🥧🍂
Please note that the following nutrition information is approximate and can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of a 9-inch pie)
Nutrition Information (Approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 330-380 calories per slice.
- Total Fat: Approximately 18-22 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Cholesterol: Approximately 85-100 milligrams
- Sodium: Approximately 250-300 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 37-42 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-3 grams
- Sugars: Approximately 24-28 grams
- Protein: Approximately 5-7 grams
Health Information:
- 🎃 Pumpkin is a good source of vitamin A, which is important for eye health and the immune system. It also contains fiber, which aids in digestion.
- 🧀 Cream Cheese is high in saturated fat and cholesterol, so it should be consumed in moderation.
- 🥧 Pie Crust is typically high in calories and contains saturated fats due to the butter or shortening used. Using a whole wheat crust or a thinner layer can make it slightly healthier.
- 🍯 Sugars in the recipe can contribute to a high-calorie count. Consider using natural sweeteners or reducing sugar content if desired.
- 🥄 Portion Control is key, as this dessert can be calorie-dense. Enjoying a small slice as an occasional treat is a balanced approach.
While Autumn Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie is a delicious seasonal dessert, it’s important to be mindful of the portion size and the frequency of consumption, especially if you’re watching your calorie and sugar intake. As with any dessert, moderation is key for a well-balanced diet.
