If you have a soft spot for rich, sweet, and crunchy desserts, this Pecan Pie Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. Combining the deep caramel notes of brown sugar and light corn syrup with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecan halves, this classic Southern dessert feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving a comforting slice of homemade pie, this recipe offers a perfect balance of gooey filling and flaky crust that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delightful to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pecan Pie Recipe plays a crucial role in building the luscious texture and unforgettable flavor. From the buttery pie crust to the sticky-sweet filling and nutty pecans, simplicity shines through with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust: Whether homemade or store-bought, it provides the flaky, buttery foundation for the pie.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: This syrup is key for creating that gooey, glossy filling texture that pecan pie is famous for.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds deep caramel sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor that enriches the pie.
- 3 large eggs: They bind the filling ingredients and set the custard as it bakes.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Gives the filling a silky richness and helps with browning.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: A warm, fragrant note that rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves: The star of the show, providing that signature buttery crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, taking a moment to crimp the edges as you like—this adds a decorative touch and helps keep the crust intact during baking.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth. This step is crucial to ensure a silky, even custard once baked.
Step 3: Add the Pecans
Fold in the pecan halves, making sure each nut is well coated with the luscious filling. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pecan mixture into your prepared pie crust, and spread the pecans evenly so your finished pie looks as amazing as it tastes. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the dish. Keep an eye on the crust and pecans; if they start to brown too quickly, loosely tent the pie with foil for the last 15 to 20 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your pecan pie cool completely at room temperature for about two hours. This resting time allows the filling to fully set, making slicing clean and enjoyable. Serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream to add a light, airy contrast.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A few simple garnishes can elevate your Pecan Pie Recipe to something truly special. Fresh whipped cream is a classic choice, but you could also sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top to balance the sweetness or add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pecan pie pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Try serving it alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced gelato for the perfect temperature and flavor contrast. Fresh berries can also add a refreshing touch that brightens each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests? Consider serving your pecan pie as mini individual tartlets for a charming presentation. Another fun idea is to cut the pie into small squares and serve them as bite-sized treats at holiday gatherings. No matter how you present it, this Pecan Pie Recipe always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover pecan pie at room temperature covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigeration is best to maintain freshness and prevent the filling from becoming too soft.
Freezing
This Pecan Pie Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn, then store it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving.
Reheating
To bring your pie back to life, warm slices gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps soften the filling and crisp up the crust fresh from the fridge or freezer.
FAQs
Can I use roasted pecans instead of raw?
Absolutely! Toasting pecans before adding them to the filling boosts their nutty flavor and adds an irresistible depth to your pie. Just be sure not to over-toast them to avoid bitterness.
Is it okay to make the pecan pie the day before serving?
Yes, making the pie one or two days ahead is perfect. The flavors meld beautifully with time, and storing the pie properly keeps it fresh and delicious for your celebration.
Can I substitute the corn syrup with something else?
While light corn syrup gives the pie its signature texture, you can substitute with golden syrup or a combination of honey and sugar syrup. Keep in mind the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the crust edge from burning?
If you notice your crust edges browning too fast, cover them with a pie shield or loosely tent with foil after about 30 minutes of baking to give the filling enough time to set without overcooking the crust.
What is the best way to slice pecan pie?
Use a sharp, serrated knife and cut slowly with a gentle sawing motion. For cleaner slices, dip your knife in warm water and wipe it dry between cuts to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about sharing a slice of homemade pecan pie with family and friends, especially when the recipe is as straightforward and rewarding as this one. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and make this classic Pecan Pie Recipe your own—it’s a sweet tradition that never goes out of style and is sure to bring smiles all around the table.
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Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus 2 hours cooling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic American pecan pie features a rich, gooey filling made with corn syrup, brown sugar, and pecan halves, all nestled in a buttery, flaky pie crust. Perfect for holidays, especially Thanksgiving, this dessert is a Southern tradition loved for its sweet, nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your 9-inch pie dish by placing the unbaked pie crust inside, then crimp the edges attractively to give it a finished look.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.
- Add Pecans: Gently stir the pecan halves into the filling mixture until all are thoroughly coated with the sweet mixture.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the pecan filling into the prepared pie crust and spread the pecans evenly across the surface, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken. To prevent over-browning of the crust or pecans, tent the pie with foil loosely during the last 15 to 20 minutes if needed.
- Cool Completely: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature, which takes about 2 hours, before slicing.
- Serve: Serve the pie plain or topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding to the filling.
- Pecan pie can be made 1 to 2 days in advance and stored at room temperature or refrigerated for freshness.
- Ensure pie cools completely before slicing to allow filling to set properly.
