Blue Stocking Pumpkin Pie. Mrs. U. F. Seffner. Recipe

Blue Stocking Pumpkin Pie, also known as Mrs. U. F. Seffner's Pumpkin Pie, is a delicious and classic dessert that has been enjoyed by many for generations. This recipe is not only rich and flavorful but also has an interesting history.

The recipe calls for a specific type of pumpkin called Hubbard Squash, which is known for its sweet and dense flesh. However, you can also use any good sweet pumpkin as a substitute. The first step is to steam the pumpkin until it becomes soft and then puree it by putting it through a colander. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the pie.

Next, melt half a cup of butter in an iron frying pan over the fire. Allow it to brown slightly and then add the strained pumpkin. Cook the pumpkin for a few moments, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. Transfer the cooked pumpkin to a large bowl or crock.

To the bowl of cooked pumpkin, add two quarts of good, rich milk. It is important to use full-fat milk for a creamier and more decadent pie. Then, add eight eggs that have been beaten separately. Beating the eggs separately helps to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter filling.

Next, add two large cups of sugar to sweeten the pie. It is recommended to use white granulated sugar, but you can also experiment with alternative sweeteners like brown sugar or maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.

To enhance the flavor of the pie, add a teaspoon each of salt, pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. These spices complement the natural sweetness of the pumpkin and add warmth and depth to the pie. Finally, grate a whole nutmeg and add it to the mixture for a touch of aromatic flavor. For a finishing touch, add a tablespoon of vanilla extract to enhance the overall taste of the pie.

Now that the filling is ready, it's time to prepare the pie crust. This recipe calls for an under crust only, which means you should line your pie dish with a single layer of the dough. Before filling the crust with the pumpkin mixture, brush the crust with beaten egg white. This will help create a barrier between the filling and the crust, ensuring that the crust stays crisp and flaky.

Bake the Blue Stocking Pumpkin Pie in a moderate oven until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven, but it generally takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

This recipe yields five pies, making it perfect for a large gathering or for freezing and enjoying later. Serve the pie on its own or with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Fun fact: The name "Blue Stocking Pumpkin Pie" is believed to have originated from the term "Bluestocking," which historically referred to intellectual women. This dessert was popular among women who were part of literary and intellectual societies, hence the name. It's a tribute to the empowered and intelligent women who shared and enjoyed this delicious pie.

If you enjoy Blue Stocking Pumpkin Pie, you may also like other pumpkin-based desserts such as pumpkin bread, pumpkin cheesecake, or pumpkin spice cookies. These treats capture the warmth and comfort of pumpkin flavors and are perfect for the fall season.

So gather your ingredients, follow this historical recipe, and savor a slice of Blue Stocking Pumpkin Pie. As you enjoy each bite, remember the tradition and history behind this delectable dessert that has delighted generations of pie lovers.