Introduction
Pecan Pie is a beloved Southern dessert that combines the rich, buttery goodness of a filling made from pecans, sugar, and corn syrup, all nestled in a flaky, buttery pie crust. This traditional pie is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a sweet and nutty treat. Whether you’re a pecan pie aficionado or trying it for the first time, you’re in for a delightful experience.
Who This Recipe Is For
This recipe is for anyone who appreciates the comforting flavors of pecans and enjoys indulgent desserts. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, Thanksgiving, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, Pecan Pie is a timeless choice.
The Appeal of Pecan Pie
The charm of Pecan Pie lies in its simplicity and the delightful combination of nutty pecans, sweet filling, and a flaky pastry crust. It’s a dessert that’s both satisfying and deeply comforting.
Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have these ingredients ready:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 2-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Directions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delectable Pecan Pie:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Roll Out the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pie crust into a 12-inch circle.
- Carefully transfer the crust to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted unsalted butter, and pure vanilla extract.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Bake
- Scatter the pecan halves evenly over the prepared pie crust.
- Pour the filling mixture over the pecans, making sure they are well covered.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pie is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow the Pecan Pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Serve the slices on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Toasted Pecans
- For a richer flavor, you can toast the pecans in a dry skillet or in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the pie.
Chocolate Chips
- Some variations include adding chocolate chips to the filling for a delicious chocolate-pecan pie.
Maple Syrup
- You can replace some or all of the corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a different flavor.
FAQ
Q: Can I make the pie crust in advance? A: Yes, you can make the pie crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two before using it.
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust? A: If you’re short on time, a store-bought pie crust will work just fine. Make sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking if necessary.
Q: How do I know when the pie is done baking? A: The pie is done when the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan.
In Conclusion
Pecan Pie is a classic dessert that combines the richness of pecans with a sweet, buttery filling in a flaky crust. Whether you’re indulging in a slice during the holidays or savoring it on any occasion, this pie is a sweet and nutty delight. So, follow the steps, let it cool, and enjoy a slice of this traditional Pecan Pie with its warm, comforting flavors. Enjoy!