hilly's pumpkin

How to Make Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Introduction

There’s something magical about pumpkin pie that instantly brings warmth to any occasion. Whether it’s the familiar scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, or the creamy, spiced filling that melts in your mouth, pumpkin pie is the essence of comfort food. Today, we’re not just making any pumpkin pie; we’re making Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie—a recipe beloved for its perfect blend of flavors and creamy texture. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a pie that’s both delicious and impressively easy to make.

This guide will walk you through everything you need, from choosing ingredients to creating that perfectly balanced, creamy filling. You’ll also find helpful tips for avoiding common mistakes and suggestions for serving and storing your pie, ensuring it’s just as delicious the next day.

Why Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie is a Fall Classic

Pumpkin pie has long been a seasonal favorite, especially around the holidays. The combination of smooth, velvety pumpkin with warm spices and a crisp crust makes it irresistible. Here’s why Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie is the ideal recipe to try:

  • A Time-Tested Recipe: Hilly’s recipe has been passed down and refined, ensuring that it yields the perfect balance of creamy custard and subtle sweetness.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: This pumpkin pie is ideal for gatherings, with flavors that appeal to all ages.
  • Easy to Make: With a straightforward list of ingredients and a foolproof method, this recipe is approachable, even if you’re new to baking.

Let’s get into the details so you can start baking Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie for your family and friends.

Ingredients for Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Before you begin, gather all the ingredients listed below. For your convenience, we’ve organized them in a simple table to make sure you don’t miss anything.

IngredientQuantity
Pie Crust (homemade/store-bought)1 (9-inch)
Pumpkin Puree1 1/2 cups
Evaporated Milk1 cup
Granulated Sugar3/4 cup
Brown Sugar1/4 cup
Eggs2 large
Cinnamon1 tsp
Ground Ginger1/2 tsp
Nutmeg1/4 tsp
Salt1/4 tsp
Vanilla Extract1 tsp

Optional Toppings: Whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for serving.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie

Preparing the Pie Crust

Your pie crust is the foundation of this dessert, providing a crisp, buttery contrast to the creamy filling. Here’s how to prepare it:

  1. Choose Your Crust: Store-bought pie crust is convenient, but if you have a bit more time, consider making one from scratch. A homemade crust often adds extra flavor and texture.
  2. Prebake for a Crisp Crust: If you’re making a homemade crust, prebake it at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This prevents it from getting soggy once you add the filling.

Creating the Pumpkin Pie Filling

The filling is the heart of Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie, and with just a few ingredients, you can achieve a smooth, perfectly spiced custard.

  1. Whisking the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until they’re thoroughly combined.
  2. Add the Liquids: Pour in the evaporated milk, then add the eggs one at a time, whisking gently after each addition. Be careful not to overbeat the eggs, as this can add too much air to the filling and cause it to crack.
  3. Incorporate the Spices and Vanilla: Finally, add the cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Continue to whisk until everything is evenly blended. The filling should be smooth and creamy.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

Now that your filling and crust are ready, it’s time to assemble the pie and bake it to perfection.

  1. Pour the Filling: Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture into the prebaked pie crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
  2. Bake at the Right Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie on the center rack for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. This jiggle is key—it means the custard will set perfectly as it cools.
  3. Cool Completely: Once the pie is done baking, allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator for an hour or two. This step is essential for the custard to firm up.

Tips for Perfecting Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie

Even the simplest recipes benefit from a few expert tips. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls and make the most out of your pumpkin pie:

Avoiding Common Mistakes

  • Overbaking: Overbaking can cause the filling to crack and dry out. Remember, the center should have a gentle jiggle when you take it out of the oven.
  • Accurate Measurements: Baking is a science, so measuring ingredients precisely is essential. Too much sugar or milk can affect the texture of the filling.

Personalizing the Recipe

While Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie is perfect as is, there are a few ways to customize it:

  • Adjusting Spices: Increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of cloves for a spicier pie.
  • Adding Toppings: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.

Storing and Serving Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie

Proper storage and serving can make all the difference in the final taste and texture of your pie. Here’s how to keep it fresh and ready to serve:

Refrigerating the Pie

Once the pie has cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert.

Freezing Tips

To freeze Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Store it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature before slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

  • Yes! To use fresh pumpkin, roast it in the oven until tender, then puree until smooth. Fresh pumpkin often yields a lighter, slightly sweeter flavor.

2. How can I tell when my pumpkin pie is done?

  • The pie is done when the edges are set, and the center jiggles slightly. Avoid overbaking, as the pie will continue to firm up as it cools.

3. How can I avoid cracks in the filling?

  • Using a water bath or baking the pie at a lower temperature can help prevent cracks. Another tip is to avoid overbeating the eggs, as too much air can cause cracks.

4. Can I make Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie in advance?

  • Absolutely! This pie is perfect for making a day ahead. Just be sure to refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

5. What can I serve with Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie?

  • Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Try garnishing with toasted pecans for an added crunch.

Conclusion

Now that you have a step-by-step guide for making Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start baking. This recipe is simple, but it yields a deliciously creamy, spiced pie that’s bound to become a favorite. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration or as a comforting treat for yourself, you’ll find that Hilly’s Pumpkin Pie is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

We’d love to hear about your baking experience! Share your own twists, any variations you tried, or let us know how the recipe turned out in the comments below. Happy baking, and enjoy every slice!

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