Pumpkin pie with pumpkin and spicy seeds

A Pumpkin Pie with Spicy Seeds is a fantastic way to enjoy fall flavors with a twist! The spiced pumpkin filling is complemented by crunchy, spicy seeds for added texture and flavor. Here’s a recipe to guide you through making this delightful pie:

Pumpkin Pie with Spicy Seeds

Ingredients:

For the pie crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 6-8 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree (or about 2 cups fresh pumpkin puree)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the spicy seeds:

  • ½ cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp salt

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Crust:

    • In a large bowl, mix flour and sugar. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
    • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Prepare the Spicy Seeds:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • In a bowl, toss the pumpkin seeds with olive oil, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
    • Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Let cool.
  3. Prepare the Filling:

    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, heavy cream, milk, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until smooth and well combined.
  4. Assemble the Pie:

    • Roll out one dough disk on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer to the pie dish and trim any excess.
    • Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust.
    • Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The crust should be golden brown.
  5. Cool and Serve:

    • Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.
    • Sprinkle the cooled spicy seeds on top of the pie just before serving for added crunch and flavor.

This Pumpkin Pie with Spicy Seeds is a delicious and festive treat that pairs the classic flavor of pumpkin pie with a crunchy, spicy topping. Enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert!