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Posted in Essential Oil Basics by Rocky Mountain Oils

Spice Up Your Holiday Pumpkin Pie With Essential Oils

We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Now that the holiday season has officially kicked off, here at RMO we want to fill you in on how Essential Oils can spice up your holiday desserts.

Case in point: our own Rashelle Drennan incorporates essential oils in a terrific gluten-free pumpkin pie recipe which she calls Essential Pumpkin Chiffon Pie.  She shared this treat with everyone at the office, and we can attest to the difference that the oils make in overall flavor.

Rashelle’s recipe calls for using three of our essential oils to create the pumpkin chiffon filling.  Cinnamon Bark is exactly what it sounds like - a special distillation of the tree’s bark for a very pure oil that concentrates the cinnamon flavor.  Nutmeg brings a rich, traditional holiday spicy-sweet dimension to the pumpkin chiffon, almost like chocolate.  A touch of Ginger Root rounds out the special flavor of Essential Pumpkin Pie.

Now how to go about transforming your favorite pumpkin pie recipes?

The recipe calls for:

- 1 tsp. Cinnamon  

- 1/2 tsp. Nutmeg  

- 1/4 tsp. Ginger

For best results when cooking with essential oils we suggest reducing the dry spice by half to incorporate that familiar flavor, and replacing the other half with essential oil to kick it up a notch. Here is what ended up being the perfect combination of spice in the Essential Pumpkin Chiffon Pie:

- 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon  

- 1 drop Cinnamon Bark essential oil  

- 1/4 tsp. Nutmeg  - Toothpick dipped in Nutmeg essential oil 1/4 inch, stir in through wet ingredients  

- 1/8 tsp. ginger  

- Toothpick dipped in Ginger Root essential oil 1/8 inch, stir in the wet ingredients

Not only do you have a pumpkin pie with distinct and delicious flavor, it’s also safe for those who are gluten-intolerant!

Remember that when it comes to using essential oils for cooking, a little goes a very long way.  Check out our prior blog post here to find out more.

Do you use essential oils in your holiday recipes?  We’d love to know about it! Happy holidays Friends!

10 Ways to Spice Up Your Holiday Pumpkin Pie With Essential Oils: A Baker's Guide

Ah, the pumpkin pie. It is a timeless symbol of Thanksgiving and a treat many of us eagerly anticipate as the holiday season approaches. The evolution of pumpkin pie has seen many variations. Yet, the novel concept of infusing essential oils into this classic dessert offers a fresh twist. Essential oils, with their concentrated plant extracts, possess the power to elevate your pie's flavor profile, giving it a unique and aromatic touch.

Spice Up Your Holiday Pumpkin Pie With Essential Oils

Why Essential Oils?

It's not just about the flavor. Essential oils bring about a sensory experience, an aromatic, delightful, and therapeutic journey. Each drop contains the essence of its source, providing depth and complexity to dishes.

Safety Precautions when Cooking with Oils

Using essential oils in cooking requires more caution than your typical ingredients. Always opt for food-grade oils; remember, a little goes a long way.

Choosing the Right Oils

Popular Oils for Desserts

Lavender, peppermint, and sweet orange are a few top picks. Their fragrant profiles complement sweet dishes, adding layers of flavor that intrigue the palate.

Pairing Oils with Pumpkin

When it comes to pumpkin, earthy and warm oils like cinnamon and nutmeg truly shine. They enhance the pumpkin's natural sweetness and resonate with its comforting tones.

Integrating Essential Oils in Your Recipe

Steps to Mix Oils

Firstly, remember that less is more. Begin by adding a drop and adjusting according to taste. Mix it with carrier oil or butter to ensure even distribution.

Determining the Right Amount

The potency of essential oils can be surprising. Tasting as you go is crucial, ensuring the oil doesn't overpower the pie's innate flavors.

Revamp Traditional Recipes

Classic Pumpkin Pie with a Twist

Imagine a pumpkin pie where hints of rosemary or wild orange tease your senses with each bite. This modern twist transforms a familiar dish into something extraordinary.

Vegan & Gluten-Free Versions

Inclusive baking is all the rage. Why not replace regular butter with coconut oil infused with lemongrass or use almond flour with a hint of cardamom?

Baking Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Crust

The crust makes or breaks the pie. Aim for a golden brown hue and ensure the edges don't burn by shielding them with foil.

Preventing Overcooking

Essential oils can be sensitive to heat. Lower your oven's temperature slightly and monitor your pie closely to prevent the oils from losing their essence.

Storing Your Pumpkin Pie

Keeping the Essential Oil Freshness

Store your pie in an airtight container to maintain the aroma and flavor of the essential oils.

Freezing vs. Refrigerating

While freezing is an option, refrigerating is ideal. The cold temperature preserves the oil's aromatic notes better.

Serving Suggestions

Whipped Cream & Oil Drizzles

Enhance your whipped cream with a drop of vanilla or peppermint oil. It's a game-changer!

Drink Pairings

Try a chamomile tea infused with lavender oil or a bold coffee with a hint of cinnamon oil. It's the perfect accompaniment.

Testimonials

Real-life Experiences

"I was skeptical at first, but the peppermint oil added such a refreshing touch to my pie!" - Amy.

Success Stories

"After introducing essential oils into my pie, my family can't get enough. It's our new tradition!" - Jake.

FAQs

Can children eat pie infused with essential oils?

Absolutely! Just ensure you're using food-grade oils and moderate amounts.

What are the health benefits of essential oils?

Many essential oils have therapeutic properties, such as aiding digestion or promoting relaxation.

How do you store leftover oils?

In a cool, dark place. Direct sunlight can affect their potency.

Where can I buy essential oils?

Rocky Mountain Oils Website: The official website of Rocky Mountain Oils is a reliable source for their products. You can visit their website, explore their range of essential oils, and place an order directly.

Conclusion

The realm of baking is ripe with opportunities for innovation. The fusion of pumpkin pie and essential oils exemplifies this spirit of creativity. As we move forward, this blend of tradition and modernity will surely carve its niche in the annals of festive desserts. Give it a try this holiday season, and who knows? You might stumble upon your new favorite pie flavor!