Squash Pie

Posted in Recipe Collections / Grammie’s Recipes: From the Kitchen of Elsie Damren
Squash Pie
As the leaves begin their vibrant dance, signaling the heart of autumn, there's no dessert that quite captures the essence of the season like a Squash Pie. This recipe, with its flaky pastry and warmly spiced filling, is a homage to the comforting flavors that define this time of year. Let's walk through the steps to create this quintessential fall treat, promising to wrap your kitchen in the sweet scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Ingredients

  • Flaky pastry (enough to line a pie dish)
  • 2 eggs, well beaten
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 1½ cups strained pumpkin (or your choice of squash puree for a twist on tradition)
  • 1½ cups milk
  • ¼ tsp ginger
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pastry: Begin with your favorite flaky pastry recipe to line a 9-inch pie dish. Ensure it's rolled out thin enough to accommodate the rich filling while holding its shape beautifully as it bakes.

  2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the well-beaten eggs and brown sugar until smooth. Add in the strained pumpkin, blending well to incorporate the milk, ginger, nutmeg, salt, and cinnamon into a harmonious mix that sings of autumn.

  3. Assemble the Pie: Pour the mixture into the prepared pie shell, smoothing the top with a spatula. The vibrant color of the filling against the pastry is a prelude to the deliciousness to come.

  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the pie in a preheated oven at 425°F for the first 10 minutes. This initial high heat helps set the crust, ensuring it stays flaky and delicious. After the first 10 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking until done. The classic test for doneness is inserting a silver knife into the center of the pie; it should come out clean.

  5. Serving: Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. This Squash Pie is best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding a creamy contrast to the spiced filling.

Squash Pie: A Warm Embrace in Every Slice

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the humble squash takes center stage in kitchens everywhere, culminating in the creation of the beloved Squash Pie. This classic dessert, with its creamy filling and subtle spices, encapsulates the essence of fall, offering a comforting warmth that’s as much a feast for the soul as it is for the palate. Let’s explore the layers of flavor, tradition, and innovation that make Squash Pie a cherished autumnal treat.

The Richness of Squash

Squash, with its versatile flavors and textures, is the star of this pie. From the earthy sweetness of butternut to the creamy delicateness of kabocha, each variety brings its own unique qualities to the pie. Experimenting with different types of squash can transform your pie into a new discovery with every baking.

  • Roasting for Depth: Roasting the squash before pureeing can enhance its natural sugars and deepen the pie’s flavor.
  • Spice Harmony: Nutmeg and cinnamon are traditional, but consider adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an aromatic twist.

A Crust That Holds Its Own

A good pie starts with a great crust. For Squash Pie, a flaky, buttery crust not only serves as a vessel but also complements the creamy filling. Incorporating a tablespoon of sugar or a dash of cinnamon into your crust recipe can subtly elevate the overall taste of the pie.

Balancing Sweetness and Spice

The magic of Squash Pie lies in the balance between the sweetness of the squash and the warmth of the spices. While sugar brings out the squash’s natural sweetness, the spices should be added with a measured hand to enhance, not overpower, the delicate flavors of the filling.

  • Customize Your Sweetness: Depending on the natural sweetness of your squash, adjust the sugar to taste.
  • A Touch of Texture: For an added layer of complexity, consider stirring a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling.

Serving with Style

Squash Pie shines when served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive twist, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup can make each slice a celebration of autumn’s bounty.

A Pie for All Seasons

While Squash Pie is a hallmark of fall, its warm spices and comforting texture make it a welcome addition to any table, year-round. With each variation, whether it’s a change in squash variety or a new spice blend, Squash Pie offers an opportunity to explore the depths of flavor that this versatile vegetable can offer.

The Perfect Autumn Dessert

Squash Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fall’s bounty and a testament to the simple joys of baking. Whether you’re gathered around the table with family, sharing a slice with a friend over coffee, or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this pie promises to bring a touch of coziness to any occasion.

As we embrace the cooler days and longer nights, let this Squash Pie be a reminder of the warmth and richness that autumn brings to our kitchens and our hearts. Happy baking!

Nutrition Facts

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Servings Per Recipe: 8
  • Calories: 260

% Daily Value

  • Total Fat: 8.5g (11% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 3.2g (16% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 99mg (33% DV)
  • Sodium: 2573mg (112% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42.3g (15% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 9.9g (35% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 21.2g
  • Protein: 8.3g
  • Vitamin D: 9mcg (45% DV)
  • Calcium: 269mg (21% DV)
  • iron: 3mg (17% DV)
  • Potassium: 204mg (4% DV)

Note: The “% Daily Value” (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Recipe analyzed by verywell.