This Southern Pecan Pie is a delightful dessert that showcases the rich, nutty flavor of pecans. With a sweet, gooey filling and a flaky crust, it’s a beloved classic that’s perfect for holidays and special occasions.
This easy Pecan Pie recipe is straightforward and can be made from scratch, including the homemade pecan pie crust. Whether you’re looking for the best pecan pie recipe or a simple version, this recipe will guide you through creating a delicious pecan pie filling that everyone will love.
Understanding Southern Pecan Pie
Southern Pecan Pie is a cherished dessert that embodies the essence of Southern cooking. Its rich, nutty flavor comes from the pecans, which are perfectly complemented by a sweet, gooey filling. This pie is often a highlight during holidays and special gatherings, making it a go-to choice for many families.
When it comes to making a homemade pecan pie, the process can be straightforward. With the right ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create the best pecan pie that will impress your guests. This easy pecan pie recipe is not only delicious but also allows for customization, whether you prefer a traditional filling or something with a twist.
The Components of a Perfect Pecan Pie
The key to a delightful pecan pie lies in its components. The crust, often made from scratch, serves as the foundation for the pie. A flaky and buttery pecan pie crust enhances the overall experience, providing a perfect balance to the rich filling.
The filling itself is a harmonious blend of corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and melted butter, which creates that signature gooey texture. Adding toasted pecans brings a delightful crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience. This combination is what makes the Southern pecan pie a beloved classic.
Preparation Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and develops a beautiful golden brown crust.
When preparing the pie crust, take your time to roll it out evenly and fit it snugly into the pie dish. Crimping the edges adds a decorative touch and helps seal in the filling. Mixing the filling should be done carefully; whisk the ingredients until fully combined to avoid any lumps.
Baking and Cooling the Pie
Baking the pie is a crucial step. It typically takes about 50 to 60 minutes for the filling to set and the top to achieve that desirable golden hue. Keep an eye on the edges of the crust; if they brown too quickly, covering them with foil can prevent burning.
Once baked, allow the pie to cool for at least two hours. This cooling period is essential for the filling to firm up, making slicing easier and more aesthetically pleasing. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is simply irresistible!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Southern pecan pie, a dollop of whipped cream on top adds a delightful touch. The creaminess complements the sweetness of the pie beautifully. For an extra decorative flair, scatter a few whole pecans around the pie before serving.
This pie can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. No matter how you choose to serve it, this classic dessert is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Variations and Customizations
While the traditional Southern pecan pie is a favorite, there are many variations to try. Some people enjoy adding chocolate chips for a rich twist, while others might incorporate bourbon for an extra depth of flavor.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider making pecan pie crescents, which offer a fun and portable way to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie in a bite-sized treat. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with different ingredients can lead to delightful discoveries!
Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe
This pecan pie features a rich filling made with eggs, sugar, and corn syrup, combined with toasted pecans for added texture. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped or whole
- Optional: whipped cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add Pecans: Stir in the pecans until evenly distributed in the filling mixture.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the pecan filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve with whipped cream if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 52g