Pecan Pie is a classic dessert that many people enjoy, especially during the holidays. It features a rich and sweet filling made from pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. This pie is not just a treat; it also brings people together for family gatherings and celebrations. Its delightful combination of flavors makes it a favorite among dessert lovers.
why make this recipe
Making Pecan Pie at home allows you to share comfort and happiness with family and friends. The rich, nutty flavor of the pecans combined with the sweetness of the filling creates a warmth that is perfect for any occasion. Not only is it delicious, but it also has a simple ingredients list, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
The process of making your own Pecan Pie can also be a delightful experience. You can customize it with your preferred level of sweetness or even add a hint of chocolate for an extra treat. Baking it yourself means you can use the freshest ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought pies.
Moreover, Pecan Pie is versatile. It works beautifully as a holiday dessert or a simple weekend treat. Sharing it with loved ones will surely bring smiles and happy memories at the dinner table. It’s a perfect recipe to pass down through generations, keeping family traditions alive and creating new ones.
how to make Pecan Pie
Making Pecan Pie is simple and fun. First, gather your ingredients: 1 pie crust, 1 cup of corn syrup, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of melted butter, 3 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 1/2 cups of pecans.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a store-bought crust, fit it into your pie pan. In a large bowl, mix the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Stir in the pecans.
Pour the filling into the prepared crust. Bake for about 60 to 70 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Let the pie cool on a wire rack before serving. This cooling time allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice. Enjoy your freshly baked pecan pie as a delicious end to any meal.
how to serve Pecan Pie
Serving Pecan Pie is as simple as slicing it up and placing it on a plate. The pie is perfectly delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream on top. Some people also enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, as the cold ice cream complements the warm pie beautifully.
For a decorative touch, sprinkle some extra pecans over the whipped cream or ice cream. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the nutty flavor.
Pecan Pie can be served at room temperature or slightly warm, depending on personal preference. It is an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, dessert tables, or even a cozy evening at home. Remember, each slice tells a story of love and tradition, making it a special treat for all.
how to store Pecan Pie
To keep your Pecan Pie fresh, start by allowing it to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the pie at room temperature for up to two days, but it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator if you want to preserve it for a longer period.
In the refrigerator, Pecan Pie can last for about four to five days. When ready to serve a slice, simply take it out and either serve it cold or warm it slightly in the oven or microwave.
If you have leftover pie, you can freeze it as well. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or warm it directly from frozen.
tips to make Pecan Pie
Here are some helpful tips for making the perfect Pecan Pie. First, choose fresh pecans; they should smell sweet and nutty. This elevates the flavor of your pie. Second, for a bubbly filling, bake the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
If you prefer a richer taste, consider using dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup. Additionally, adding a bit of dark chocolate to the filling creates a delicious twist.
To prevent the crust from over-baking, you can cover the edges with aluminum foil during the last part of the baking time. Finally, cooling the pie properly is essential; it allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier.
variation
For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding chocolate chips to the filling for Chocolate Pecan Pie. You can also experiment with flavors by adding a hint of bourbon or coffee, creating new depths in taste while still enjoying the beloved pecan flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Pecan Pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Pecan Pie a day or two in advance. Just store it properly in the refrigerator.
Q: How do I know when my Pecan Pie is done?
A: The pie is done when the edges are firm and the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools.
Q: Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
A: Yes, you can substitute walnuts for pecans, but it will change the flavor profile of the pie.
Q: Can I add other nuts to the Pecan Pie?
A: Absolutely! You can mix in other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for added texture and flavor.
Q: Is Pecan Pie gluten-free?
A: Traditional Pecan Pie is not gluten-free, but you can use gluten-free pie crust to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Pecan Pie
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic dessert featuring a rich and sweet filling made from pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup, all nestled in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If using a store-bought crust, fit it into your pie pan.
- In a large bowl, mix corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Stir in the pecans.
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
- Bake for 60 to 70 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let the pie cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze individual slices for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pecan pie, dessert, holiday recipe, baking
