Heavenly Pecan Pie Recipe

Heavenly Pecan Pie Recipe: A Sweet Treat for All

Sweet, buttery pecans dance through this classic southern pecan delight pie that promises a symphony of rich, caramelized flavors.

Generations of bakers have perfected this decadent dessert, turning simple ingredients into a magical culinary experience.

The golden, flaky crust cradles a luscious filling that melts in your mouth with each luxurious bite.

Layers of nutty complexity emerge from carefully toasted pecans nestled in a silky, caramel-like custard.

Dark brown sugar and a hint of vanilla create depth and warmth that transform this pie into a truly memorable treat.

Each slice tells a story of comfort and indulgence, inviting you to savor a tradition that spans generations.

Dive into this irresistible southern classic and let its comforting flavors transport you to a world of pure dessert bliss.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Calories: 300 kcal

Servings: 9

Pecan Pie Ingredient Breakdown

For Pie Crust:
  • Pie Crust Dough: Homemade crust provides a tender, flaky foundation that elevates the entire dessert experience.
  • Pecans: Coarsely chopped base layer adds delightful crunch and nutty depth to the pie's texture.
For Filling Base:
  • Eggs: Binding agent that creates a silky, luxurious custard-like consistency.
  • Dark Brown Sugar: Delivers rich caramel undertones and deep sweetness to the filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Introduces warm, aromatic complexity that complements the pecans.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, velvety filling texture.
  • Salt: Balances and enhances the overall sweetness of the pie.
For Topping and Garnish:
  • Whole Pecans: Beautiful decorative arrangement provides visual appeal and extra nutty crunch.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: Optional accompaniment that adds creamy contrast to the pie's richness.

Tools for a Flaky, Buttery Pecan Pie

  • 9-inch pie plate: Essential for shaping and holding the pie crust.
  • Large mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together filling ingredients smoothly.
  • Whisk: Crucial for blending eggs, butter, and sugar into a creamy mixture.
  • Wire rack: Helps pie cool evenly and prevents soggy bottom.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.
  • Knife: Useful for chopping pecans and cutting pie slices.
  • Foil: Optional for protecting pie edges from over-browning.
  • Oven: Necessary for baking the pie at specified temperatures.

How to Bake a Pecan Pie That Trulys

Nutty Caramel Dream Pie

  • Crust Foundation

Craft a homemade pie crust and gently press it into a pie plate, creating a delicate base for your decadent dessert.

  • Pecan Landscape

Sprinkle a generous layer of chopped pecans across the bottom of the crust, creating a delightful nutty foundation.

  • Silky Filling Creation

Whisk together a luscious blend of eggs, rich butter, deep brown sugar, aromatic vanilla, and a pinch of salt until the mixture transforms into a smooth, creamy elixir.

  • Pecan Arrangement

Cascade the filling over the pecan base, then crown the pie with whole pecans in an artistic pattern.

  • Baking Magic

Start the pie’s journey in a blazing 400°F oven for 10 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F. Bake for 35-45 minutes until the center has a gentle wobble.

  • Cooling and Serving

Let the pie rest and settle for 2-4 hours on a cooling rack. Serve with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream or a cloud of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

Pie-Baking Tips for the Perfect Texture & Top

  • Pecan Pie Mastery: Expert Tips & Twists
  • Crust Perfection: Freeze your homemade pie crust for 15 minutes before rolling to prevent shrinkage and create a flakier texture.
  • Pecan Power: Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3-5 minutes before adding to the pie to enhance their rich, nutty flavor and add depth to the dessert.
  • Filling Finesse: Substitute dark corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a more complex, less sweet flavor profile that complements the pecans beautifully.
  • Texture Magic: Mix different pecan sizes – some chopped, some whole – to create an interesting texture and visual appeal in every slice.
  • Bourbon Boost: Add a tablespoon of bourbon or dark rum to the filling for an sophisticated adult twist that brings warmth and complexity to the classic pie.

Serve Pecan Pie with Whipped or Ice Cream

  • Cozy Thanksgiving Companion: Serve this delightful pie as the star dessert during family gatherings, creating warm memories around the holiday table.
  • Decadent Dessert Pairing: Complement the rich pecan flavor with a smooth bourbon-spiked whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent experience.
  • Coffee Break Treat: Slice a wedge alongside a hot espresso or strong black coffee to balance the pie's sweetness and enhance its nutty undertones.
  • Seasonal Scoop Topping: Crown each slice with a scoop of cinnamon or maple walnut ice cream to elevate the classic pecan pie into a truly memorable dessert moment.

Store Pecan Pie Without Losing That Crunch

  • Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store your Pecan Delight Pie in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days, maintaining its delightful texture and flavor profile.
  • Room Temperature Enjoyment Window: Leave the pie at ambient temperature for up to 2 hours before serving. Ideal for gatherings and dinner parties where you want that perfect slice ready to impress guests.
  • Freezing Magic Trick: Wrap the entire pie or individual slices in heavy-duty aluminum foil, then place inside a freezer-safe bag. Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months without losing its rich, nutty essence.
  • Reheating Perfection: Thaw frozen pie overnight in the refrigerator. Warm gently in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore its fresh-baked warmth and crispy pecan topping. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy crust and uneven heating.
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Heavenly Pecan Pie Recipe

Heavenly Pecan Pie Recipe


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4.5 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Homemade pecan delight pie delivers southern comfort with rich, caramelized pecans nestled in a buttery crust. Delightful dessert promises sweet satisfaction for gatherings and special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups (354 ml) pecans (1 cup coarsely chopped, 0.5 cup whole)
  • 1 cup (200 g) dark brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup (1 stick or 113 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 homemade pie crust
  • 0.25 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Pie Crust Preparation: Expertly roll out chilled pie dough to line a 9-inch pie plate, creating a smooth, even base with delicate edges.
  2. Pecan Foundation: Generously distribute coarsely chopped pecans across the pie shell’s bottom, establishing a robust nutty landscape.
  3. Filling Creation: Whisk eggs, melted butter, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt into a silky, harmonious blend that promises rich, decadent flavor.
  4. Pie Assembly: Pour the luxurious filling over the pecan layer, ensuring complete coverage, then artfully garnish the surface with whole pecans in an elegant pattern.
  5. Oven Choreography: Preheat to 400°F, then bake for 10 minutes before reducing temperature to 350°F. Continue baking 35-45 minutes, watching for a subtle center jiggle that signals perfect doneness.
  6. Protective Technique: If the pie’s surface browns too rapidly, shield with aluminum foil to prevent excessive caramelization.
  7. Cooling and Serving: Transfer to a wire rack and allow pie to rest 2-4 hours, enabling the filling to set into a sumptuous texture. Serve at room temperature or chilled, accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent finale.

Notes

  • Chill the Dough: Refrigerate pie crust for at least 30 minutes to prevent shrinkage and ensure a flaky texture during baking.
  • Arrange Pecans Strategically: Distribute chopped pecans evenly to create a consistent nutty base and prevent uneven filling coverage.
  • Monitor Baking Carefully: Watch the pie closely during the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning and ensure a perfectly set filling.
  • Cool Completely: Allow pie to rest at room temperature for 2-4 hours, letting the filling stabilize and develop a rich, smooth consistency.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

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