Pumpkin pie is a beloved dessert with a rich history, particularly in North America. Its origins can be traced back to Native American and early American colonial cooking. Here’s the story of pumpkin pie in English:
The history of pumpkin pie dates back to the early American colonies and even earlier to Native American cuisine. Native Americans were known to use pumpkins and other squashes as a staple in their diets, often roasting or stewing them. They introduced these ingredients to the European settlers, who adapted and incorporated them into their own cooking.
The early colonists, including the Pilgrims, quickly learned to appreciate the pumpkin. It was a versatile and plentiful crop that could be stored for long periods, making it a valuable addition to their diets. Pumpkins were also an important ingredient in the traditional English custard pies, which the colonists tried to replicate with the resources available to them in the New World.
As a result, the concept of pumpkin pie began to take shape. The colonists would hollow out pumpkins, fill them with milk, honey, and spices, and then bake them in the ashes of a fire. Over time, this evolved into the custard-style pumpkin pie that we are familiar with today.

The first recorded recipe for pumpkin pie appeared in Amelia Simmons’ “American Cookery” cookbook in 1796, which was one of the earliest American cookbooks. This recipe included boiled and mashed pumpkin mixed with milk and spices, then baked in a crust.
Pumpkin pie’s popularity continued to grow, and it eventually became a symbol of the Thanksgiving holiday, thanks in part to Sarah Josepha Hale, an influential 19th-century editor and author who advocated for Thanksgiving as a national holiday.
Today, pumpkin pie remains a beloved American dessert, especially during the autumn and Thanksgiving season. It has evolved with various recipes and variations, including the classic spiced pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie, and other creative interpretations. It’s a cherished part of American culinary tradition and a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall.
Indulgent pumpkin pie with whipped cream and cinnamon
Pumpkin pie is a traditional and popular dessert in the United States, especially during the fall and Thanksgiving season. Here’s a classic recipe for pumpkin pie:
Ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 15-ounce can of pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 12-ounce can of evaporated milk
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add them to the pumpkin mixture.
- Gradually stir in the evaporated milk until the filling is well combined.
- Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once done, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Serve slices of pumpkin pie with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Pumpkin pie is a delicious and iconic dessert that’s often associated with Thanksgiving, but it’s enjoyed throughout the autumn season as well.