As the holiday season wraps us in its embrace, the delightful aroma of gingerbread wafting through our homes becomes a nostalgic call to the comforts of tradition and festivity. This year, we are taking the classic gingerbread essence and giving it an innovative twist with a Gingerbread Pie Delight. This recipe combines the beloved spices of gingerbread with a creamy pie filling, topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream or a spiced crumble, offering a culinary experience that's both comforting and unexpected.
Ingredients for Your Gingerbread Pie Delight
- For the Crust:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup dark molasses
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
Steps to Create Your Gingerbread Pie
Make the Pie Crust:
- Combine flour, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough comes together.
- Form into a ball, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a pot, whisk together cream, milk, spices, eggs, molasses, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
- Let cool slightly.
Assemble the Pie:
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
- Pour the filling into the crust.
- Bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden.
- Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon or ginger.
- A crumble made from crushed gingerbread cookies or spiced oats.
💡 Note: Ensure your pie crust is kept cold until ready to bake to achieve the flakiest texture.
Tips for the Perfect Gingerbread Pie
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
- Chill your butter before mixing it into the crust to prevent it from melting too soon.
- For a deeper molasses flavor, opt for dark molasses rather than light.
| Serving | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 servings | 30 minutes | 1 hour | 5 hours 30 minutes (including chilling) |
To wrap up, crafting a Gingerbread Pie Delight is a blend of tradition and innovation, offering a dessert that captures the warmth of the holidays with a unique twist. Each slice delivers a comforting bite of spice and sweetness, perfect for sharing with friends and family during festive gatherings. The aromas alone will evoke memories of holiday celebrations, while the taste will create new ones, making this pie not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the senses.
Can I make the crust in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare the crust ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 1 month.
What are some good substitutions for the filling?
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If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream. For an egg-free version, try a custard made from pureed pumpkin or sweet potatoes mixed with cornstarch to thicken.
How do I ensure my pie sets correctly?
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Ensure your filling is thick enough before pouring into the crust; it should hold its shape when you spoon it out. Overbake slightly to ensure it’s set, as it will continue to set while cooling.
Can I add a lattice top?
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Yes, you can add a lattice top for visual appeal. Just ensure you have enough dough for this and chill the strips before weaving them over the pie to keep their shape during baking.
What can I serve with this pie?
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This pie pairs wonderfully with hot coffee, spiced cider, or even a glass of dessert wine for an elegant touch to your holiday meal.
