Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of this classic pecan pie recipe. With its buttery crust and gooey, caramel-like filling topped with toasted pecans, this dessert is a must-have for holidays and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients You’ll Need Pecan Pie Recipe
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
How to Make Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll Out the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
- Transfer the dough to the pie dish, trim the edges, and crimp as desired.
- Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, and salt until smooth.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Place the pecan halves evenly across the bottom of the pie crust. Pour the filling over the pecans, ensuring they are fully coated and spread evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil or a pie shield.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions Pecan Pie Recipe
This pecan pie pairs beautifully with:
- Freshly whipped cream
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- Vanilla or butter pecan ice cream
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect Balance: The sweetness of the filling is offset by the buttery, flaky crust.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples come together to create an elegant dessert.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Pecan pie can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for holiday prep.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie
- Don’t Overbake: The filling should jiggle slightly in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will set as it cools.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans lightly before adding them enhances their nutty flavor.
- Use Cold Butter: For the flakiest pie crust, ensure your butter and water are ice-cold.
Storing and Reheating Pecan Pie
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave or oven for a freshly baked taste.