Oh my goodness, let me tell you how much I adore a good pecan pie! There’s something incredibly comforting about this classic dessert that really speaks to me. I still remember my grandma pulling a warm pecan pie out of the oven every Thanksgiving—its golden crust perfectly crimped, the filling bubbling just a bit at the edges. That sweet, nutty aroma wrapping around the house like a cozy blanket always felt like home.
This recipe for Sweet and Savory Pecan Pie is my personal twist on the traditional version. It has a hint of savory flavor that adds a whole new dimension to the classic sweetness we all know and love. If you’re ready to impress your family and friends (and maybe yourself a little too), this is the pecan pie you need in your life!
What’s in Sweet and Savory Pecan Pie?
Pecans: Naturally, the star of the show! I love using fresh pecans—chop them up roughly, so you get some nice chunks and some smaller bits for texture. If you can, toast them lightly before adding them to the pie; it really enhances their flavor.
Granulated Sugar: This is what creates that lovely sweetness in the filling. Just like grandma used to use, and I sometimes sneak a bit of brown sugar in there for added depth.
Light Corn Syrup: This ingredient adds that classic pecan pie texture and helps bind everything together. It gives it that gooey, luscious quality that is simply irresistible.
Unsalted Butter: What does butter not make better? It adds richness and a slight creaminess to the filling that balances the other flavors beautifully.
Eggs: These are essential for giving the pie its structure. They help the filling set up nicely and give it that wonderful custardy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile and creates that warm, inviting aroma when the pie is baking. You can use pure vanilla if you’re feeling fancy!
Sea Salt: Here’s where we introduce that savory twist! A sprinkle of sea salt in the filling enhances all the flavors and cuts the sweetness just enough to keep it interesting.
Ground Cinnamon: Just a pinch brings in a lovely warmth and complements the pecans perfectly.
Is Sweet and Savory Pecan Pie Good for You?
Well, let’s be real—pecan pie isn’t considered a health food, but it does have its perks.
Pecans: These delightful nuts are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with healthy fats, fiber, and proteins. They can help lower cholesterol, and their antioxidants can contribute to overall heart health.
Sugar Content: Beware, though, this pie is definitely sweet! It’s perfect for an occasional treat but should be enjoyed in moderation. The sugar content is certainly higher than some desserts, so balance it out with healthier meals throughout the day.
As for the butter and eggs, while they add richness and flavor, it’s best not to go overboard if you’re watching your cholesterol.
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups pecans (roughly chopped)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup light corn syrup
– ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ tsp sea salt
– ½ tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
This recipe serves about 8-10 people, depending on how generous your portions are!
How to Make Sweet and Savory Pecan Pie?
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly.
2. **Prepare the Crust**: Roll out your pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges or use a fork to decorate the crust. You can pre-bake it for about 5 minutes to avoid a soggy bottom.
3. **Mix the Filling**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, sea salt, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
4. **Add the Pecans**: Stir in the chopped pecans until they are well coated in the filling.
5. **Pour Filling into Crust**: Carefully pour the pecan mixture into the prepared pie crust, ensuring even distribution.
6. **Bake**: Bake the pie in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed (it will still jiggle a bit in the center).
7. **Cool**: Take it out and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing. Patience is key—the flavors really meld as it cools!
Sweet Little Somethings
– **Serving Suggestion**: This pie is divine served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. If you want to be extra fancy, drizzle some caramel sauce on it too!
– **Storage**: Store any leftovers in the fridge. The pie will keep well for about 3-4 days (if it lasts that long)!
– **Variations**: Feel free to experiment with the spices! Some people like to add a touch of nutmeg or even a hint of bourbon for a kick.
I really hope you give this Sweet and Savory Pecan Pie a try. You won’t just be making a dessert; you’re making memories! And seriously, don’t forget to snap a picture—I love seeing everyone’s creations. Enjoy!
