How to make the perfect pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie. Of course, it can be a bit of an acquired taste as the aromatic, earthy flavor is a wee bit divisive. Still, there's no doubt that the smell of pumpkin pie spice embodies the cozy traditions of the season like no other.
Romantically, pumpkin pie is said to have been on the menu on the very first Thanksgiving. Though historically, that's highly unlikely. Native Americans did eat pumpkins but didn't have butter, sugar or many of the spices included in pumpkin pie spice. Therefore, it's doubtful they'd have been baking any pies. Nonetheless, pumpkin pie remains the natural Thanksgiving dessert for families across the country.
Watch the video to learn the secret to making the perfect Thanksgiving pumpkin pie.
Why do we eat pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving?
Pumpkins were gifted to the colonists at the original Thanksgiving, so having pumpkins on the menu is symbolic of America's origins. Pumpkin pie with whipped cream or ice cream owes its place as a Thanksgiving dessert to an 18th-century cook by the name of Amelia Simmons. In 1796 she published American Cookery, which is widely regarded as the USA's first cookbook. It was devoted to recipes created by colonists after they left Europe. Included in the book was a recipe for pumpkin pudding which eventually evolved into the pumpkin pie we enjoy today.
Thanksgiving recipes: Plan a tasty Thanksgiving with 6 unexpected, budget-friendly recipes
How many pumpkin pies are eaten at Thanksgiving?
According to various estimates, more than 50 million pumpkin pies are consumed each Thanksgiving. Surprisingly, that makes the dish more popular than turkey on Turkey Day. A study by YouGov.com found that 35% of respondents said pumpkin pie was their favorite holiday pie. Pecan pie was second with 16%, while apple pie, which is America's most famous pie, only came in third. But bear in mind pumpkin does get a little bit of a helping hand, as pumpkin pie spice provides the familiar flavor, not the pumpkin itself. And some commercially available pumpkin puree brands may contain squashes other than pumpkin in the recipe.
More problems, solved
Pumpkin pizza: It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory
Pumpkin waffles: Fluffy and delicious
Pumpkin spice: Save money and make it at home
Pumpkin ice cream: It's creamy and delicious, the perfect dessert for fall
Pumpkin mac and cheese: Don't knock it until you try it
Dirty glass stovetop: Get stubborn stains off
Breakfast burritos: It's perfect for those chaotic mornings
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to make the perfect pumpkin pie
