Pecan Pie is a classic dessert that many people adore, especially during the holidays. This sweet and nutty pie has a rich, gooey filling that pairs perfectly with a buttery crust. It’s a staple in many kitchens, celebrated for its delicious taste and lovely presentation.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to bake a Pecan Pie. It brings warmth and joy to gatherings, making it a favorite for family dinners and holiday celebrations. The combination of nuts and sweetness creates a delightful treat that everyone loves. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers!
How to Make Pecan Pie
Making Pecan Pie involves a simple process that anyone can follow. Here’s how you do it!
Ingredients:
- 1¼ cups plain white flour (all-purpose flour)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp white sugar
- 115 g / 1 stick unsalted butter (cold, cut into 1 cm / ⅓” cubes)
- 2.5 – 3 tbsp ice cold water
- 1¼ cups pecans (enough to decorate the top)
- 1¼ cups pecans (for filling)
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup / 200g brown sugar, packed
- 60 g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- ¾ cup / 185 ml light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp bourbon (or rum, marsala, or omit)
Directions:
Pie Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold butter cubes and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add the ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Pecans:
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Place the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
Pie Crust Rolling Out (video helpful):
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie pan.
8. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
Filling:
9. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and mix in the brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
10. Stir in the pecans for filling.
Baking:
11. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
12. Arrange more pecans on top for decoration.
13. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Serving / Storing:
14. Let the pie cool before serving.
How to Serve Pecan Pie
Pecan Pie is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. This adds a creamy contrast to the sweet and nutty flavors of the pie.
How to Store Pecan Pie
To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the fridge. Pecan Pie can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing slices. Just wrap them tightly and store in an airtight container.
Tips to Make Pecan Pie
- Make sure your butter is cold for the pie crust to achieve a flaky texture.
- Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor.
- Keep an eye on the pie while it bakes, and cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
Variation
You can experiment with additional ingredients, such as chocolate chips or a splash of orange zest, for a unique twist on the traditional Pecan Pie.
FAQs
1. Can I make Pecan Pie in advance?
Yes, you can make Pecan Pie a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you are ready to serve.
2. Is it necessary to toast the pecans?
Toasting the pecans isn’t necessary, but it does enhance their flavor and adds a nice crunch.
3. Can I use another type of nut?
Yes, you can use other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts if you prefer. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful Pecan Pie with your loved ones!
Pecan Pie
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1¼ cups plain white flour (all-purpose flour)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp white sugar
- 115 g unsalted butter (cold, cut into 1 cm / ⅓” cubes) Butter should be cold for flaky texture.
- 2.5 – 3 tbsp ice cold water Add slowly until the dough comes together.
For the Filling
- 1¼ cups pecans (for filling)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 60 g unsalted butter (melted)
- ¾ cup light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp bourbon (or rum, marsala, or omit) Optional for added flavor.
- 1¼ cups pecans (enough to decorate the top)
Instructions
Prepare Pie Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold butter cubes and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add the ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare Pecans
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
Roll Out Dough
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie pan.
- Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
Prepare Filling
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs and mix in the brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the pecans for filling.
Bake Pie
- Pour the filling into the pie crust.
- Arrange more pecans on top for decoration.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Serving / Storing
- Let the pie cool before serving.
