Pecan Pie Recipe (with Video)

​Pecan Pie Recipe: Pecan pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s both rich and satisfying. With a buttery crust and a sweet, nutty filling, it’s the perfect indulgence for holidays, family gatherings, or any special occasion.

Even if you’re new to baking, this step-by-step guide will walk you through how to make a delicious pecan pie from scratch.

Ingredients Needed for Pecan Pie

To make the perfect pecan pie, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter (cubed)
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 1 cup light corn syrup (can substitute with dark corn syrup)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• Pinch of salt

Optional:

• 1 tbsp bourbon for extra depth of flavor
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips for a chocolate pecan pie twist

Equipment You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
• 9-inch pie dish
• Pastry cutter or food processor
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil (to prevent over-browning)

Preparing the Crust

While store-bought crusts can save time, nothing beats the taste of a homemade pie crust. Here’s a simple way to make it from scratch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pie Crust

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter: Using a pastry cutter or food processor, cut the cold butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the ice water: Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
4. Form and chill: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Transfer to the pie dish: Carefully lift the dough and lay it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess around the edges.

Making the Pecan Pie Filling

The heart of pecan pie is its gooey, caramel-like filling. Here’s how to get it right.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Pecan Pie Filling

1. Melt the butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk together the sugar and corn syrup: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, and corn syrup until smooth.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. Fold in the pecans: Finally, gently fold in the pecan halves.

Assembling the Pecan Pie

1. Pour the filling into the crust: Once your crust is prepared and placed in the pie dish, pour the pecan filling evenly over it.
2. Arrange the pecans: If you want a visually appealing top layer, reserve a handful of pecans to place decoratively on top of the filling.

Baking the Pie

1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the pie in the oven: Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, placing a sheet of foil over the edges of the pie crust if it starts to brown too quickly.
3. Check for doneness: The pie should be golden brown, and the filling should be slightly jiggly in the center but set around the edges.

Checking for Doneness

To check if your pecan pie is done, insert a toothpick or knife into the center. It should come out mostly clean with just a little bit of filling clinging to it.

Cooling and Setting the Pie

Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This cooling time is essential for the filling to set and become the perfect consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan pie is best served warm, but it’s equally delicious at room temperature. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to take it up a notch. Some people enjoy a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the filling: If the filling becomes too firm or dry, it has likely been overbaked. Keep an eye on it after 50 minutes.
2. Soggy crust: To avoid a soggy bottom, ensure that your crust is well chilled before adding the filling, and consider pre-baking the crust for 5-10 minutes.

Pecan Pie Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Pie: Add 1/4 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a rich, chocolaty flavor.
• Bourbon Pecan Pie: Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Vegan Pecan Pie: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and butter with a plant-based alternative, and use maple syrup instead of corn syrup.

How to Store Leftover Pecan Pie

Cover leftover pecan pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore its freshness.

Nutritional Information

A typical slice of pecan pie contains around 500-600 calories, mainly from fats and sugars. To make a lighter version, consider using less sugar, replacing corn syrup with honey, or using a whole wheat crust.

FAQs about Pecan Pie Recipe

Here are some common questions about making the perfect pecan pie:

What kind of pecans should I use for pecan pie?

Fresh, whole pecans are ideal for a rich, nutty flavor. You can also use chopped pecans for more texture throughout the pie.

Do I need to pre-bake the pie crust?

It’s not necessary, but pre-baking helps keep the crust from getting soggy. This ensures a flaky, golden crust.

How do I prevent my pecan pie from being runny?

To avoid a runny pie, bake it long enough until the center sets. You can also add an extra egg for a firmer filling.

How can I store pecan pie?

Pecan pie can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to four days or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?

Yes! Pecan pie is a great make-ahead dessert. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that everyone should try making at least once. Its rich, nutty flavor combined with the buttery, sweet filling makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply want to treat yourself, pecan pie is sure to impress.

Mastering the recipe might seem challenging at first, but with a little practice, you’ll perfect the balance of flavors and textures. The key is patience and attention to detail, and once you’ve nailed it, you’ll have a go-to dessert that’s both comforting and delicious. Don’t hesitate—give it a try and enjoy the rewarding experience of making your own pecan pie!