Best Pecan Pie Recipe

Introduction

This classic pecan pie is a timeless Southern dessert with a rich, gooey filling and a buttery crust. Perfectly crisp on the edges with a nutty crunch, it’s an ideal treat for holidays or any special occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 (9 inch) unbaked or frozen pie crust
• 2 ½ cups pecans, coarsely chopped
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup light corn syrup or dark corn syrup
• ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chopped pecans evenly into the unbaked pie crust.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Pour this mixture over the pecans in the pie crust.
3. Step 3: Bake the pie for 55 to 60 minutes. The center should have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pie, while the edges should be set and stable.
4. Step 4: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to firm up properly.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra layer of flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the crust.
• You can substitute maple syrup for corn syrup to create a natural sweetness with a unique twist.
• Adding a splash of bourbon to the filling enhances the depth of flavor without overwhelming the pie.
• If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the brown sugar by 1/4 cup.

Storage

Store pecan pie covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds if desired, but it’s also delicious chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-chopped pecans?

Yes, pre-chopped pecans work well, but chopping whole pecans fresh just before baking can improve the texture and flavor.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The pie is done when the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. It will continue to set as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep the filling moist and tender.

Best Pecan Pie Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 100 reviews

This Best Pecan Pie recipe features a rich, gooey filling packed with crunchy pecans in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfectly sweetened with brown sugar and corn syrup, and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, it’s an irresistible classic southern dessert ideal for holidays or any special occasion.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pie Crust

• 1 (9 inch) unbaked or frozen pie crust

Filling

• 2 ½ cups pecans, coarsely chopped
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup light corn syrup or dark corn syrup
• ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pie Shell: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the 2 ½ cups of coarsely chopped pecans evenly into the unbaked or frozen 9-inch pie crust shell, spreading them out to cover the bottom.
2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large room temperature eggs, 1 cup of corn syrup (light or dark), ¾ cup of packed brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt until fully combined and smooth.
3. Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared filling mixture evenly over the pecans in the pie crust. Place the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. The pie is done when the center has a slight jiggle but the edges are set and stable, indicating the filling is cooked through but still gooey.
4. Cool Before Serving: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Cooling fully ensures the filling sets properly, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavor.

Notes

• Using room temperature eggs helps create a smooth filling texture.
• Light or dark corn syrup can be used depending on your preferred sweetness level and flavor depth.
• Brown sugar type (light or dark) will slightly change the richness and color of the filling.
• Ensure not to overbake to keep the filling gooey rather than dry.
• Allow the pie to cool completely to achieve clean slices and optimal taste.
• For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust.

Keywords: pecan pie, pecan dessert, southern pie recipe, holiday dessert, classic pecan pie, easy pecan pie