Pumpkin pie is a traditional fall dessert, especially on Thanksgiving Day. People seem to either love it or hate it. Some consider it too plain and not sweet enough, even when covered with generous amounts of whipped topping. Even if you already like it, your pies can look and taste better than ever. Try these four delicious ways to improve the plain version. You can make the homemade or store-bought variety more decadent and tempting than ever.
Cover the Top with Caramel, Pecans and Chocolate Curls
A basic store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie can be turned into a gourmet treat with the addition of pecans, caramel sauce and chocolate curls. Begin with a pie that has been thoroughly chilled. Cover the pumpkin with a layer of whole pecans or pieces. Pour a jar of caramel sauce evenly over the top, and end with milk chocolate curls. They are easy to make by slowly scraping the side of a milk chocolate bar with a sharp paring knife. The combination of buttery caramel, nuts, chocolate and spicy pumpkin filling are phenomenal.
Top it With a Layer of Vanilla Ice Cream with Thick Fudge Topping
Chocolate and pumpkin are a tasty amalgamation, especially when rich and creamy vanilla ice cream is added as well. Begin by softening a quart of vanilla ice cream. Stir in one tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Spread the ice cream over the top of a chilled pumpkin pie, and drizzle thick fudge sauce on top. Keep it in the freezer until ready to serve. People who do not usually go for plain pumpkin pie will not be able to resist it.
Cover it With Whole Pecans and Thick Butterscotch Topping
If you love the sweet and creamy flavor of butterscotch, top plain pumpkin pie with pecans and ice cream topping. Begin by arranging whole pecans on top of the chilled dessert. Cover the entire top or just a portion of it. If desired, create a swirl design, a flower or a starburst. Drizzle butterscotch sauce on top.
Top Plain Pumpkin Pie with Mini Vanilla and Chocolate Chips
Most people seem to love desserts that include mini chips. They are drawn to the sweet and creamy flavor and slight crunch. They are especially delicious on plain pumpkin pie. They can be added after it is chilled or while it is slightly warm. If added when the filling is still warm to the touch, the chips will melt and form a hardened layer of dappled chocolate that will tempt even the most finicky guest.
Source: Food Preparation Experience and Experimentation
