Sorry, Whipped Cream — This Old-School Topping Makes Pumpkin Pies 10X Tastier

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Pumpkin pie is the crowning jewel of any Thanksgiving (or autumn-related) feast. Though whipped cream topping is the traditional choice, you may be overlooking an old-school option that's perfect to counter the richness of a classic pumpkin pie recipe. A simple portion of sour cream is all you need for the ultimate finishing touch to your dessert.

Though you may feel tempted to throw out that last dollop of sour cream, what you should do instead is save it for topping off a pumpkin pie. The tart taste and acidic nature of sour cream makes it ideal for pairing with the seasonal confection. Recipes for a basic pumpkin pie filling often call for the inclusion of sweetened condensed milk or similar. While whipped cream is a sweet complement, sour cream deepens the complexity with a contrasting taste.

More than simply adding a small spoonful atop individual slices, you can also prepare an old-school-style recipe that uses an entire layer of sour cream as a whole pie topping. Add your choice of sweetener to the sour cream layer for a more balanced flavor and spread it over a freshly baked pumpkin pie — at least once you've allowed it to cool completely. For those who aren't ready to forgo whipped cream entirely, you can always use sour cream as a tangy addition to elevate it.

The creamy consistency of sour cream will give your pumpkin pie a unique mouthfeel, bearing a slight resemblance in taste and texture to that of a pumpkin cheesecake. Whether you go for a small amount or a full, sweetened layer, this is a delightful answer to typical whipped cream. What's more is that this opens up other options for dressing up your pie with other complementary ingredients and eye-catching toppings.

For example, consider adding freshly grated nutmeg to your sour cream topping. This warming spice will provide a pop of color and flavor when combined with the sour cream. Similarly, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a homemade blend of freshly ground pumpkin pie spice will give the topping even more depth. Make your pumpkin pie a little more decadent by adding shavings of milk, white, or dark chocolate to your sour cream.

Additionally, your can infuse your pumpkin pie with extra flair and style by using a piping bag and frosting tips to add the sour cream topping. Alternatively, a squeeze bottle of sour cream will also work, though this won't allow you quite as much control. Any way you choose to utilize sour cream in topping off your pumpkin pie, it's sure to be the star of your seasonal feast.