Pumpkin Pie with Coconut Milk

Pumpkin pie with coconut milk is a delightful twist on the classic dessert that brings a rich and creamy texture to the table. This recipe captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and vibrant flavors, making it a perfect addition to any autumn gathering or holiday celebration. The use of coconut milk adds a unique depth and creaminess, ensuring that each slice is both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious pumpkin pie with coconut milk, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust

• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour: For the base of the crust.
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter: Chilled and cubed.
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar: For sweetness.
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt: To enhance flavor.
• 1/4 cup of ice water: To bind the dough.

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 1 can (15 oz) of pure pumpkin puree: Or 2 cups of homemade pumpkin puree.
• 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk: For a rich, creamy texture.
• 3/4 cup of brown sugar: For sweetness and depth.
• 2 large eggs: To bind the filling.
• 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice: Or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: For flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt: To balance sweetness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.

2. Cut in the Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.

4. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps relax the gluten, making the crust tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust

1. Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit your pie dish (about 1/8 inch thick). Carefully transfer it to the dish and trim any excess.

2. Pre-bake the Crust (Optional): For a crisper crust, consider pre-baking it. To do this, prick the bottom of the crust with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. If you skip this step, the crust may be softer.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Pour in the Filling: Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

2. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. Cool the Pie: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour before slicing. This allows the filling to firm up.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with Whipped Cream: Serve slices of pie topped with fresh whipped cream or coconut whipped cream for a delicious contrast.
• Garnish with Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the visual appeal and flavor.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: This pie makes a delightful accompaniment to a warm beverage, making it perfect for dessert after a cozy meal.

When selecting a pumpkin for this recipe, you have a couple of options. Fresh sugar pumpkins can be roasted and pureed, but for convenience, canned pumpkin puree is just as delicious and saves time. Be sure to choose pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

Enhancing the Flavor

Feel free to experiment with additional flavors in the filling. Adding a pinch of cardamom or a splash of maple syrup can enhance the overall sweetness and depth of flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of texture, consider folding in toasted coconut flakes for a delightful surprise in each bite.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or enjoy it cold.

Making It Ahead of Time

This pie can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for holiday meals. You can prepare the pie up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just remember to let it cool completely before covering it to maintain its texture.

Conclusion

Pumpkin pie with coconut milk is a delightful dessert that combines the traditional flavors of fall with a creamy twist. This easy-to-follow recipe will impress your family and friends and make your gatherings even more special. The combination of pumpkin, coconut milk, and warm spices creates a rich and inviting flavor profile that is sure to be a hit.