Julia Child's Aunt Helen's Fluffy Pumpkin Pie
If you're looking for an indulgent dessert that screams fall, look no further than Julia Child's Aunt Helen's Fluffy Pumpkin Pie. This recipe is a classic, beloved by generations of bakers and dessert lovers alike. With its rich pumpkin flavor and fluffy, whipped texture, this pie is the perfect way to celebrate the changing of the seasons.
The History of Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie has been a beloved dessert in America since the 17th century, when the pilgrims first arrived from England. The first pumpkin pies were made by hollowing out a pumpkin, filling it with milk, honey, and spices, and baking it in hot ashes. Over time, the recipe evolved to include eggs, sugar, and flour, resulting in the pumpkin pie we know and love today.
The Ingredients
Julia Child's Aunt Helen's Fluffy Pumpkin Pie recipe calls for a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. You'll need a can of pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, cream, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and a homemade or store-bought pie crust.
The Method
To start, preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, cream, cinnamon, ginger, and salt until smooth. Pour the mixture into your prepared pie crust and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and continue baking for an additional 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Let the pie cool before serving.
The Secret to Aunt Helen's Fluffy Texture
The secret to Aunt Helen's Fluffy Pumpkin Pie is the whipped cream. Rather than mixing the cream into the pumpkin filling, Julia Child's recipe calls for whipping the cream and folding it into the filling at the very end. This creates a light and airy texture that is both indulgent and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin pie is a versatile dessert that can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it warm or cold, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Some bakers even like to sprinkle a little bit of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
If you're looking for a classic fall dessert that is both decadent and comforting, Julia Child's Aunt Helen's Fluffy Pumpkin Pie is the perfect choice. With its rich pumpkin flavor and fluffy whipped texture, it's sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not give it a try this fall and see for yourself why this recipe has stood the test of time?