How to Make a Thanksgiving Pumpkin Pie: A Southern Classic with Heart

Thanksgiving in Alabama is more than just a meal-it's a celebration of family, gratitude, and tradition. And no dessert captures that spirit quite like pumpkin pie. With its velvety filling, warm spices, and flaky crust, pumpkin pie is the sweet finale that brings generations together around the table. Whether you're baking for a church potluck in St. Clair County or preparing a feast for your family, this guide will walk you through every step of making a perfect pumpkin pie from scratch.

A Slice of History

Pumpkin pie has deep roots in American culinary tradition. Native Americans introduced pumpkins to early settlers, who adapted them into sweet and savory dishes. By the 1800s, pumpkin pie had become a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations, especially in Southern kitchens where seasonal produce and warm spices were cherished.

🛒 Ingredients

Here's what you'll need for a classic 9-inch pie:

For the crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

• 3–4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• 2 large eggs

• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the crust

• In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.

• Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, stirring until dough holds together.

• Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling

• In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, and spices.

• Beat in eggs, then gradually stir in evaporated milk until smooth.

3. Assemble the pie

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan.

• Pour the pumpkin filling into the crust.

4. Bake

• Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes.

• Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40–50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

• Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tips for Alabama Kitchens

• Make it local: If you grow pie pumpkins, roast and puree them for a richer flavor.

• Spice it your way: Adjust cinnamon and cloves to suit your family's taste.

• Crust shortcuts: A store-bought crust works in a pinch, but homemade adds Southern charm.

• Serve with pride: Top slices with whipped cream or a drizzle of sorghum syrup for a regional twist.

Why It Matters

Pumpkin pie isn't just dessert-it's a symbol of home, heritage, and hospitality. In Alabama, where food is a language of love, this pie speaks volumes. It's the dish that brings cousins back from college, warms up chilly November nights, and reminds us that gratitude is best served sweet.

Whether you're baking with grandkids or prepping for a community dinner, this recipe is a reliable, heartfelt way to honor tradition and share joy. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin fill your home with holiday spirit.