Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a showstopping dessert, and Julia Child’s Fluffy Pumpkin Pie offers a sophisticated twist on the classic. This unique recipe, found in Julia’s 1989 cookbook The Way to Cook, transforms traditional pumpkin pie into a light and creamy masterpiece.

What Makes This Pumpkin Pie Special?

Julia’s recipe stands out because of its fluffy, soufflé-like texture. By separating the eggs and folding whipped egg whites into the filling just before baking, the pie achieves an airy, velvety consistency. This clever technique, combined with a precise baking method, ensures a dessert that’s both creamy and light, while still maintaining the rich pumpkin flavor we all love.

The result is a pie with an exceptional balance of flavors: sweet brown sugar, warming spices, and a hint of rum or bourbon. It’s perfect for those who want a fresh take on tradition without straying too far from the familiar.

Ingredients

This recipe yields one 11-inch pie or two 9-inch pies and serves 16. Here’s what you need:

• 2 prepared pie crusts, chilled
• 2 (15-ounce) cans or 1 (29-ounce) can pumpkin purée
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons molasses
• 3 tablespoons spiced rum or bourbon
• 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 3 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 5 large egg whites

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crusts

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F and lightly grease two 9-inch pie pans.
2. Roll out the pie dough to fit the pans, trimming the edges and crimping for a neat finish. The crust edges should extend about ½ inch above the pan. Chill the crusts in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, granulated sugar, brown sugar, heavy cream, milk, egg yolks, molasses, rum or bourbon, and spices until smooth and well-combined.
2. In a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites on medium-low speed until foamy. Increase the speed and whip until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as the whites can become grainy.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

1. Gently fold a quarter of the whipped egg whites into the pumpkin mixture to lighten it.
2. Carefully fold in the remaining egg whites, using a light hand to preserve the airy texture.

Step 4: Bake the Pies

1. Divide the filling evenly between the two prepared pie crusts. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
2. Place the pies in the oven and bake at 450°F for 15 minutes. Without opening the oven, reduce the temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
3. Lower the oven temperature again to 350°F and bake for another 15 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a thin skewer two inches from the edge—it should come out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Turn off the oven but leave the pies inside, propping the door slightly open with a wooden spoon. Allow the pies to cool gradually for 30 minutes.
2. Transfer the pies to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve slightly warm or chilled.

Tips for Success

• Par-Bake the Crust: For a crisper bottom crust, par-bake it before adding the filling.
• Avoid Separation: If the filling separates from the crust, disguise it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a generous dollop of whipped cream.
• Adjust for 11-Inch Pans: If you have an 11-inch pie pan, use all the filling for one large pie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Julia Child’s Fluffy Pumpkin Pie redefines a Thanksgiving classic with its unique texture and refined flavor profile. It’s creamy yet light, indulgent but not overwhelming, and destined to become a new holiday favorite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating your family, this pie will undoubtedly be the most memorable dessert on your table.

Conclusion

Give your Thanksgiving menu a French-inspired twist with Julia Child’s Fluffy Pumpkin Pie. The combination of whipped egg whites, bold spices, and a rich, creamy filling creates a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make. Try this recipe and elevate your holiday dessert game to the next level!