MAPLE-PECAN-PUMPKIN CHIFFON PIE

Steps:

• Refrigerate pie crust until ready to use.
• In a bowl, combine the amaretto and water; sprinkle the gelatin over the liquid and set aside to soften.
• In a saucepan, combine the milk, egg yolks, brown sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin, spices, and salt.
• Place over medium to med-low heat and cook, whisking virtually nonstop, until the mixture thickens somewhat (the change will be subtle) about 8 minutes; do not let the mixture boil.
• Remove from the heat and immediately add the gelatin mixture, stirring well to blend.
• Place the bowl in a larger bowl of ice water and let the filling cool, stirring frequently, until cool to the touch (you may want to add more ice when the first cubes melt.
• Meanwhile, using a chilled bowl and chilled beaters, beat the whipping cream using an electric mixer until stiff but not grainy; cover and refrigerate; wash and dry the beaters.
• In a bowl, beat the egg whites using a mixer until they hold soft peaks; add the sugar and continue to beat until stiff and glossy but not dry.
• Add the whites and about 1/3 of the whipped cream to the chilling.
• Fold gently until evenly combined.
• Add the remaining whipped cream and fold again until evenly mixed.
• Fold in the chopped pecans; scrape the filling into the chilled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spoon.
• Cover with loosely tented foil and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
• To serve: garnish pie with pecan halves and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.