Merry Christmas! I made Erin Jean McDowell's Pumpkin Pie from The Book on Pie for Christmas Eve dinner. I also made this pie for Thanksgiving. The only change was I used mascarpone cheese instead of half-and-half for this version. I am not sure I noticed a considerable texture or flavor difference. I would probably use half-and-half in the future. It's less expensive and easier to mix in. This is my favorite pumpkin pie recipe I have made to date.