Pecan Pie Benefits: Time – 1 hour 15 minutes
Short introduction
Pecan pie is a beloved dessert that’s especially popular during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. This delicious pie features a rich filling made from corn syrup, sugar, and pecans, all nestled in a buttery pie crust. The gooey, sweet texture combined with the crunch of pecans creates a delightful contrast that leaves a lasting impression.
Why you’ll love it
Pecan pie is not just tasty; it serves as a comforting treat that can evoke cherished memories with every bite. The blend of sweet and nutty flavors warms your heart, making it an ideal choice for festive gatherings or cozy nights at home. Furthermore, making pecan pie at home allows you to enjoy the freshness of your ingredients and impress your friends and family with your baking skills.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Substitutions & key variations
If you’re out of certain ingredients or want to make the pie a bit healthier, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust for a different flavor profile.
- Swap regular sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, richer sweetness.
- Replace corn syrup with maple syrup for a unique twist and added depth.
- For a lower-sugar version, consider using sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key for baking the pie evenly.
Step 2: Mix the filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Use a whisk or fork to mix everything until it’s well combined. Make sure there are no lumps.
Step 3: Add the pecans
Stir in the pecan halves gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This will ensure every slice has a generous amount of nuts.
Step 4: Fill the crust
Pour the pecan mixture into your prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. This helps with even baking and presentation.
Step 5: Bake the pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; you want the filling to be set but not overcooked.
Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This cooling process helps the filling firm up.
Success tips
- Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before putting the pie in. An accurate temperature helps with even cooking.
- Texture: To achieve the perfect texture, don’t overbake. The filling should be slightly jiggly in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will set as it cools.
- Common mistakes: Avoid using cold ingredients, which may lead to uneven mixing. Also, check the pie towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning.
How to serve
Pecan pie can be served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped pecans on top for added texture and decoration.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Pecan pie will last about 3-4 days in the fridge. To reheat, place slices in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or you can warm the entire pie in an oven at low temperature until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?
Yes, pecan pie can be made ahead of time! It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it a convenient dessert option for gatherings.
2. What can I use instead of corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or brown rice syrup. Both alternatives will give your pie a different but delicious flavor.
3. Can I freeze pecan pie?
Yes, you can freeze pecan pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
4. How do I know when my pecan pie is done?
Your pecan pie is done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle that’s not liquid. It will firm up as it cools.
5. Can you add chocolate to pecan pie?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or a layer of melted chocolate at the bottom of the pie crust for a delightful chocolate pecan pie variation.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
A typical slice of pecan pie contains around 300 calories, making it a treat to enjoy in moderation. Pecans are a good source of healthy fats and nutrients, adding some nutritional benefit to the dessert.
Conclusion + CTA
Pecan pie is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and brings joy to any table. With its sweet and nutty flavor, it’s sure to satisfy your dessert cravings. Why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients and enjoy the delicious experience of baking this wonderful pie!
Links to related recipes:
- Pumpkin Pie
- Chocolate Cream Pie
- Apple Crisp
- Bourbon Pecan Pie
Pecan Pie
Ingredients
For the Pie
- 1 piece pie crust Use a traditional pie crust or graham cracker crust.
- 1 cup corn syrup Can be substituted with maple syrup.
- 1 cup sugar Regular sugar or brown sugar can be used.
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves Ensure even distribution in the filling.
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until combined and smooth.
- Stir in the pecan halves gently to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared pie crust and spread it evenly.
Baking
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggles in the center.
Cooling
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.