Pecan Pie
One of my most cherished memories growing up was the scent of baking wafting through the house every fall. There was something magical about the smooth, sweet aroma that filled the air, letting you know that it was time for dessert. The star of the show was always the Pecan Pie. It was a tradition in my family to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter while savoring each bite of this delicious dessert. With its perfectly flaky crust and the rich, gooey filling studded with crunchy pecans, it became a symbol of celebration, especially during Thanksgiving. The first time I made it on my own, I felt a sense of pride as I recreated this family classic, and now I can’t wait to share my recipe with you.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 20 mins
20 mins
60 mins
Medium
380 kcal
5 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
18 g
9-inch pie dish
Why This Pecan Pie Hits Different
There’s a reason I adore this Pecan Pie. Here are some reasons why this dish truly stands out:
1. Family Tradition
Every bite of Pecan Pie is steeped in nostalgia. My family would gather every Thanksgiving around the table, and this pie has always been the centerpiece. It’s a drink of warmth and comfort that brings everyone together.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of sweet and nutty flavors in this pie is simply irresistible. The granulated sugar and brown sugar create a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the earthy taste of toasted pecans. It’s a match made in heaven!
3. Simple Ingredients
What I love about Pecan Pie is that it uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. From eggs to light corn syrup, every element plays a vital role in creating the perfect pie.
4. Versatile Serving Options
This pie is versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you prefer it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or chilled, it satisfies every craving. You can even serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
5. A Showstopper
Whenever I bring out my Pecan Pie, it never fails to impress my guests. The beautiful golden crust and glossy filling make it a true showstopper on any dessert table.
6. Easy to Make
Don’t let the idea of making a pie intimidate you! This Pecan Pie is surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a pie that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery!
What You’ll Need for Pecan Pie
When making Pecan Pie, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Each element contributes to the overall texture and taste, making it a delightful dessert. You’ll find that the combination of pecans, sugars, and a rich filling creates a symphony of sweet and nutty flavors.
- Single Pie Crust: The foundation of your pie; a flaky crust that holds the rich filling and provides a delightful contrast in textures.
- Eggs: They act as a binding agent, providing structure and richness to the filling.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and gives the pie its glossy finish.
- Brown Sugar: Provides a deeper flavor and caramel undertones.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Light Corn Syrup: This is key for the filling’s gooey texture; it holds everything together beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted to enrich the filling and enhance flavor.
- Pecans: The star of the show! They add crunch and a nutty flavor that elevates the pie.
How to Prepare Pecan Pie
Making a Pecan Pie is easier than you might think! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert in no time. Just be sure to keep an eye on the pie as it bakes to get that perfect golden crust.
Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C. This ensures that your pie cooks evenly.
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until they are thoroughly mixed.
Add in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, vanilla extract, corn syrup, and melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
Gently transfer the unbaked pie crust to a 9-inch pie dish. Fold the edge under and crimp it to create a decorative edge. Using a fork, prick holes in the bottom of the pie crust to prevent it from bubbling.
Spread the chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
Pour the filling mixture over the pecans. As it bakes, the pecans will rise to the surface, creating a beautiful layered effect.
Arrange the whole pecans in concentric circles over the wet mixture for an appealing presentation.
Cover the pie with aluminum foil to prevent the edges from burning, and bake for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, uncover the pie and continue baking until the filling is completely set in the center, which should take about 25 to 30 minutes.
Once done, place the pie dish on a wire rack to cool. Allow the pie to rest for at least two hours before slicing. This resting period allows the filling to set properly.
Serve the Pecan Pie with whipped cream on top for an extra touch of decadence.
Things Worth Knowing
- Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling to set, ensuring cleaner slices.
- Watch for Doneness: The pie is done when the filling is set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center.
- Pecan Toasting: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them to the pie enhances their flavor and gives the pie a richer taste.
- Ingredient Temperature: Use room temperature eggs and melted butter for a smoother filling.
Make It Your Own
Every baker has their own touch when it comes to making Pecan Pie. Here are some tips to help you customize your pie:
- Storage: Keep leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Let it come to room temperature before serving again.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze Pecan Pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to three months.
- Pairing: This pie pairs beautifully with coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Variations: Try adding chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate pecan pie twist!
- Serving Tip: Serve warm with a generous dollop of whipped cream for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Serving This Pecan Pie
Serving Pecan Pie is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Here are some ways to serve this delightful dessert:
- Warm or Chilled: You can serve this pie warm right out of the oven or chilled from the fridge. Both options are delicious!
- With Toppings: Consider serving with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness.
- Occasions: This pie is perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving or special family gatherings.
- Pairing Suggestions: Pair your Pecan Pie with a rich cup of coffee or herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Presentation: For added elegance, garnish each slice with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
FAQ
Conclusion
This Pecan Pie is truly a beloved classic, packed with flavor and nostalgia. Its blend of sweet and nutty flavors, along with its crispy crust, makes it a dessert that everyone loves. I encourage you to try making this pie at home; it’s a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own pie from scratch!
Pecan Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C. This ensures that your pie cooks evenly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until they are thoroughly mixed.
- Add in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, vanilla extract, corn syrup, and melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Gently transfer the unbaked pie crust to a 9-inch pie dish. Fold the edge under and crimp it to create a decorative edge. Using a fork, prick holes in the bottom of the pie crust to prevent it from bubbling.
- Spread the chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of the pie crust.
- Pour the filling mixture over the pecans. As it bakes, the pecans will rise to the surface, creating a beautiful layered effect.
- Arrange the whole pecans in concentric circles over the wet mixture for an appealing presentation.
- Cover the pie with aluminum foil to prevent the edges from burning, and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, uncover the pie and continue baking until the filling is completely set in the center, which should take about 25 to 30 minutes.
- Once done, place the pie dish on a wire rack to cool. Allow the pie to rest for at least two hours before slicing. This resting period allows the filling to set properly.
- Serve the Pecan Pie with whipped cream on top for an extra touch of decadence.
Notes
- Tip 1: Bake the pie in the middle rack of the oven for even cooking.
- Tip 2: You can substitute light corn syrup with dark corn syrup if you wish to.
- Tip 3: When the pie is done, the crust should be golden brown and the pie should be firmly set around the edges and just barely set in the center. You can use a sharp knife to check to see if it’s set up enough.
- Tip 4: Be sure to cover the pie with foil for the first half of the baking time so that the edges of the crust don’t burn. The cover also helps the filling cook more quickly.
