Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Southern Pecan Pie is a classic dessert that features a rich, caramel-like filling made with brown sugar, corn syrup, and crunchy pecans all in a flaky pie crust. This easy recipe requires only a few simple ingredients but delivers big on flavor. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any time you want a decadent and comforting dessert that’s sure to please.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim any excess and crimp the edges as desired. Place the pie plate on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
4. Assemble the Pie
- Place the pecan halves evenly in the pie crust. Pour the filling mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- The pecans will float to the top as the filling bakes, creating a beautiful top layer.
5. Bake
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The top should be golden brown.
- If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Serve
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling to set properly.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to help the filling mix smoothly and set properly.
- Cooling Time: Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to firm up. If you cut the pie while it’s still warm, the filling may not hold together as well.
- Corn Syrup: Light corn syrup works best in this recipe, but dark corn syrup can be used for a deeper flavor.
Variations
- Chocolate Pecan Pie: Add 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips to the filling for a delicious chocolate twist.
- Bourbon Pecan Pie: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling for a hint of boozy flavor.
- Maple Pecan Pie: Substitute 1/4 cup of the corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a maple-infused variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Southern Pecan Pie ahead of time?
Yes! Pecan pie is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare the pie and let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
How do I store leftover pecan pie?
Store leftover pecan pie in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pie can be served chilled or warmed slightly before serving.
Can I freeze pecan pie?
Yes, you can freeze pecan pie. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
How do I prevent the pie crust from over-browning?
If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield during baking. This will protect the crust while allowing the filling to continue baking.
What can I serve with pecan pie?
Pecan pie is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Easy Southern Pecan Pie is a classic dessert that’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With its rich, buttery filling and crunchy pecans, it’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether for a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this pecan pie is sure to impress.
Try this easy recipe and enjoy a taste of Southern tradition with every bite!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
