Squash Pie Recipe
Squash pie is a comforting and mildly spiced dessert that is similar in texture to pumpkin pie but with a flavor all its own. The combination of smooth, pureed squash, warm spices, and a flaky crust makes for a cozy treat, perfect for cooler seasons or any time you crave a creamy, custard-like dessert. This recipe is simple to prepare and results in a light, flavorful pie that’s sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients for Squash Pie
2 Cupfuls of Squash: The main ingredient is, of course, squash. You’ll want to use a squash variety with a sweet, mild flavor, such as butternut or acorn squash. The squash should be cooked and mashed to a smooth consistency before using.
1 Teaspoonful of Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and a touch of spice, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash.
5 Tablespoonfuls of Sugar: This is just enough to sweeten the pie without overpowering the subtle squash flavor.
1/4 Teaspoonful of Salt: A pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the pie.
1 Tablespoonful of Flour: The flour acts as a thickener, helping the pie to set properly and giving it a smooth, custard-like consistency.
1 Egg: The egg adds richness and helps bind the filling together.
2 Cupfuls of Milk: The milk makes the pie creamy and light, blending with the other ingredients to create a custard texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Squash Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Squash
Start by selecting a ripe, sweet squash like butternut or acorn. Peel the squash, remove the seeds, and cut it into small chunks. Place the squash in a pot of boiling water and cook until it becomes soft and tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once the squash is fully cooked, drain it and mash it until smooth. For an even smoother texture, you can press it through a colander or sieve, ensuring no lumps remain.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and flour. Stir these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed. The cinnamon will add a warm, fragrant note, while the flour will help the pie set during baking.
Step 3: Beat the Egg
In a medium-sized bowl, beat one egg until it becomes slightly frothy. The egg is essential as it helps bind the filling and gives the pie its creamy custard texture.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now it’s time to bring the pie filling together. Add the mashed squash into the beaten egg and stir to combine. Then, slowly incorporate the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and flour mixture into the squash, stirring as you go to avoid lumps. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and well blended. The result should be a creamy, slightly liquid filling that will firm up during baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Pie Crust
While working on the filling, you can either make your own pie crust from scratch or use a pre-made one. Line a deep pie plate with your crust, pressing it gently to fit the shape of the plate. Ensure that the edges are slightly higher than the plate’s rim to hold the filling securely.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the prepared squash mixture into the pie crust, filling it nearly to the top. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set. To test if the pie is ready, insert a toothpick or knife into the center—it should come out clean when the pie is done. Be careful not to over-bake, as this could cause the pie to crack or dry out.
Step 7: Let It Cool
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allowing the pie to cool before slicing helps the filling set properly, making it easier to serve. The pie is delicious served warm or chilled, with a dollop of whipped cream on top if you prefer.
Approximate Calorie Count
A slice of squash pie, assuming the pie is divided into 8 servings, would contain roughly 250-280 calories per slice. This count may vary depending on the type of crust used and whether any toppings like whipped cream are added. The combination of milk, sugar, and pie crust contributes the majority of the calories in this dessert.