Pecan Pie Recipe: A Sweet Southern Delight

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that has been loved for generations, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving and . This sweet and nutty treat combines a rich filling with crispy pecans, all wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make a delicious pecan pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 ½ cups of pecan halves
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial to ensure that the pie cooks evenly and the crust crisps up perfectly.

2. Prepare the Pie Crust

If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, place it into a 9-inch pie dish. You can also use a homemade crust for an extra special touch. If you’re using a store-bought crust, make sure to prick the bottom with a fork a few times to avoid bubbles during baking.

3. Toast the Pecans (Optional)

For an added depth of flavor, toast the pecans before placing them in the pie. Simply spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 5–8 minutes, tossing halfway through. Be careful not to burn them! This step intensifies the nutty flavor and makes a big difference in your pie.

4. Mix the Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until fully combined. This will form the rich, sticky filling for your pecan pie.

5. Assemble the Pie

Place the toasted pecans in the pie crust, spreading them out evenly. Then, carefully pour the filling mixture over the pecans, making sure they are all submerged.

6. Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, but the top should still be slightly jiggly. If the crust edges begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool completely before serving, as the filling needs time to firm up. Chill for at least 2 hours to ensure it slices perfectly. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pecan Pie

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the amount of sugar slightly. You can also substitute some of the corn syrup with maple syrup for a more complex flavor.
• Crust tip: If you’re using a homemade pie crust, make sure it’s well-chilled before baking to prevent shrinkage.
• Don’t overbake: Pecan pie can become dry if overbaked, so keep an eye on it as it nears the end of the baking time. The pie will continue to set as it cools.
• Try adding a splash of bourbon or dark rum for a subtle depth of flavor. Just 1 tablespoon can elevate your pecan pie to new heights!

Final Thoughts

Pecan pie is the ultimate dessert for nut lovers and a perfect addition to your holiday spread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying it for the first time, this recipe is simple and rewarding. Give it a try and watch it disappear in no time!