Indulge in the rich, nutty goodness of pecan pie, a dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This classic recipe features a flaky crust filled with a sweet, caramel-like filling studded with crunchy pecans. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, this pie is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow this guide to create a delicious pecan pie that will become a cherished tradition in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecan halves
Servings and Cooking Time
This pecan pie recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 50-60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
This recipe provides approximately 400 calories per serving (1 slice). It contains 22g of fat, 55g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein, making it a rich treat for those special occasions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and salt; whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the pecan halves evenly into the mixture.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until set.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added delight.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust. Adjust sugar levels to taste if you prefer a less sweet pie.
Serving and Pairings
Pecan pie pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also complements coffee or a warm cup of tea, making it perfect for dessert after a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pecan pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overbaking can result in a dry pie; keep an eye on the baking time.
- Ensure the pie crust is properly chilled to avoid shrinkage.
- Don’t skip the cooling time; the pie needs to set for the best texture.
- Using too many pecans can overwhelm the filling; stick to the recommended amount.
- Mixing too vigorously can create air bubbles; mix gently.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the filling.
- Experiment with different extracts like almond for a unique twist.
- Use a pie shield to prevent crust edges from burning.
- Serve warm for a gooey filling or chilled for a firmer texture.
FAQs
Can I make pecan pie in advance?
Yes, pecan pie can be made a day or two ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I use if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor while maintaining the pie’s texture.
How should I store leftover pecan pie?
Leftover pecan pie should be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time while still delivering delicious results.
Is pecan pie gluten-free?
Traditional pecan pie is not gluten-free due to the pie crust. However, you can use a gluten-free crust to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Pecan pie is a timeless dessert that combines rich flavors with a delightful texture. Whether enjoyed during holidays or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Embrace the joy of baking and savor every delicious bite!
Pecan Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and salt; whisk until smooth.
- Stir in the pecan halves evenly into the mixture.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until set.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
