Welcome to a delightful journey through one of Grandma Darcy’s cherished recipes – her Squash Pie. This comforting dessert has been a staple at family gatherings for generations, evoking memories of warmth and love with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises to deliver a taste of nostalgia that will leave everyone craving for more.
Ingredients:
Produce:
- 1 cup Acorn squash, cooked
Refrigerated:
- 2 Eggs, large
Canned Goods:
- 1 (12 ounce) can Evaporated milk
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar
- 1 tsp Cinnamon, ground
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup White sugar
Bread & Baked Goods:
- 1 (9 inch) pie crust pastry
Instructions:
- Prepare the Squash: Start by cooking the acorn squash until tender. Once cooked, scoop out the flesh and measure out 1 cup. Allow it to cool before proceeding.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and then add the cooked squash, evaporated milk, brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Pie: Place the pie crust pastry into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the squash mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of Grandma Darcy’s Squash Pie!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Fresh Squash: While this recipe calls for cooked acorn squash, you can also use fresh squash. Simply peel, deseed, and dice the squash before cooking until tender.
- Spice Variation: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or add other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a personalized touch.
- Crust Options: Experiment with different crusts such as graham cracker crust or a nut-based crust for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use canned squash instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can substitute canned squash for fresh squash in this recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before using.
Q: How do I know when the pie is done baking? A: The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. It should have a slight jiggle in the center but not be runny.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make this pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Simply reheat in the oven before serving for the best results.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover pie slices for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For a keto or low-carb version of Grandma Darcy’s Squash Pie, you can make the following substitutions:
- Replace the brown sugar and white sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Use a low-carb or almond flour pie crust instead of traditional pastry.
- Adjust the amount of evaporated milk or use a combination of heavy cream and unsweetened almond milk for a lower carb option.
By making these simple swaps, you can enjoy all the delicious flavors of this classic dessert without compromising your dietary goals.
Grandma Darcy’s Squash Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition that brings families together. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, this timeless recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household as well. So gather your loved ones, preheat the oven, and let the sweet memories begin!
