This Southern Pecan Pie is a true dessert treasure, perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a sweet, nutty treat. With its buttery, flaky crust and gooey pecan filling, this pie captures the essence of traditional Southern baking. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of rich, sweet flavors and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps create a gooey texture.
- 1 1/2 cups corn syrup: The base of the classic pecan pie filling. Use light or dark syrup depending on your flavor preference.
- 4 large eggs: Binds the filling and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup butter: Adds smoothness and richness to the filling.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic sweetness.
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, coarsely broken: Provides the signature crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 unbaked deep-dish pie shell: The perfect base to hold the luscious filling.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
2. Prepare the Syrup Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 1/2 cups corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
3. Beat the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat the 4 eggs. Slowly pour the slightly cooled syrup mixture into the eggs while stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
4. Strain the Mixture (Optional)
For a smoother filling, strain the egg and syrup mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. This step removes any potential lumps and ensures a silky texture.
5. Add Butter, Vanilla, and Pecans
Stir in the 1/4 cup butter (melted), 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1 1/2 cups coarsely broken pecans. Mix until evenly combined.
6. Fill the Pie Shell
Place the unbaked deep-dish pie shell on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips. Pour the pecan filling into the pie shell, spreading the pecans evenly.
7. Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the filling is set. The center should be slightly jiggly but not runny when you gently shake the pie.
Tip: If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield during the last 20 minutes of baking.
8. Cool and Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This allows the filling to set further. Slice and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed, paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor and texture, ensure your pecans are fresh and not rancid.
- Temperature Matters: Allow the syrup mixture to cool slightly before adding to the eggs to avoid curdling.
- Deep Dish: Use a deep-dish pie crust to accommodate the filling and prevent overflow.
Variations
- Bourbon Pecan Pie: Add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling for a Southern twist.
- Chocolate Pecan Pie: Sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips over the bottom of the pie crust before adding the filling.
- Nut Mix: Replace some of the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor combination.
- Maple Pecan Pie: Substitute part of the corn syrup with maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Southern Pecan Pie with:
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream complements the pie’s warm, nutty flavors.
- Coffee or Tea: Serve with a hot beverage for a cozy dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! Pecan pie is a great make-ahead dessert. Bake it the day before and store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
2. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought deep-dish crust works perfectly if you’re short on time.
3. How do I prevent the crust from overbrowning?
Cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield once they’re golden brown to prevent burning.
4. How can I tell when the pie is done?
The center should be slightly jiggly but set when gently shaken. Overbaking can make the filling too firm.
Conclusion
This Amazing Southern Pecan Pie is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Its rich, gooey filling, crunchy pecans, and buttery crust create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether served at Thanksgiving, a family dinner, or just because, this classic pie is sure to impress and delight.
Enjoy every slice of this timeless Southern treasure!
