This easy pecan pie recipe features a crisp pie crust with a rich, buttery filling and crunchy pecan topping. Making a pecan pie from scratch may seem intimidating, but with the right recipe and some patience, anyone can create a delicious and comforting dessert.
Pecan pie filling has a smooth, custard-like texture and a rich, caramel-like flavor, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. Pecan pie is best served at room temperature or slightly warmed, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply by itself.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Pecan Pie
Here is a list of ingredients typically used in a pecan pie recipe:
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Pecans (whole or chopped)
- Eggs
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Corn syrup
- Butter
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
What to serve with Pecan Pie
Pecan pie is a delicious dessert that can be served on its own or with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some ideas for what to serve with pecan pie:
Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top of the pie adds a light, airy contrast to the rich, nutty filling.
Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of warm pecan pie is a classic combination that’s hard to beat.
Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the pie adds another layer of sweet, buttery flavor.
Fresh berries: Serving fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, alongside the pie provides a fresh, tart contrast to the rich, sweet filling.
Coffee or tea: A cup of coffee or tea is the perfect beverage to enjoy with a slice of pecan pie, as the rich, nutty flavors of the dessert pair well with the bold, earthy flavors of these beverages.
Occasions to serve pecan pie
Pecan pie is a classic dessert that can be served for a variety of occasions. Here are some ideas:
Thanksgiving: Pecan pie is a traditional dessert for Thanksgiving and is often served alongside pumpkin pie and other holiday favorites.
Christmas: Pecan pie is also a popular dessert for Christmas and can be a delicious addition to any holiday meal.
Dinner parties: Pecan pie can be a sophisticated and impressive dessert to serve at dinner parties or other special occasions.
Potlucks: Pecan pie is a crowd-pleasing dessert that is easy to transport, making it a great option for potlucks and other gatherings.
Birthdays: If the birthday person loves pecan pie, it can be a unique and memorable dessert to serve at a birthday celebration.
Just because: Of course, there’s no need to wait for a special occasion to enjoy a slice of pecan pie. It can be a delicious and indulgent treat anytime!
How to store pecan pie
Proper storage is important to maintain the quality and freshness of pecan pie. Here are some guidelines for storing pecan pie:
Room temperature: Pecan pie can be stored at room temperature, covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap, for up to 2 days. After 2 days, the pie should be refrigerated or frozen.
Refrigerator: Pecan pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
Freezer: Pecan pie can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the pie tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a resealable plastic freezer bag or airtight container.
Thawing: To thaw a frozen pecan pie, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can place the pie in a preheated oven (350°F) and bake it for 20-30 minutes, or until it is heated through.
How to reheat pecan pie
To reheat pecan pie, it is best to use an oven as it will help the pie to heat evenly and maintain its texture. Here are the steps to reheat pecan pie:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the pecan pie from the refrigerator or freezer and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Cover the edges of the pie crust with foil to prevent them from burning.
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is heated through. If the pie is frozen, it may take slightly longer to reheat.
Check the pie frequently to make sure it does not overheat or burn. If the pie starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Once the pie is heated through, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the pecan pie with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.
Note: Avoid reheating pecan pie in the microwave, as it can cause the filling to become too hot and the crust to become soggy.
Substitutes ingredients for Vegan Pecan Pie
Here are some common substitutes for non-vegan ingredients to make a vegan pecan pie:
Pie crust: Use a pre-made vegan pie crust or make your own using vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter, and non-dairy milk instead of regular milk.
Eggs: Substitute 3 tablespoons of unsweetened applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg in the recipe.
Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
Corn syrup: Use vegan-friendly corn syrup or substitute maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown rice syrup.
Whipped cream: Use a vegan whipped cream substitute made from coconut cream or whipped aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) mixed with sugar.
Next time you’re looking for a sweet and indulgent treat, try making a homemade pecan pie and enjoy its deliciousness with family and friends.
Easy Pecan Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups pecans whole or chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges and crimp as desired.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the pecans and mix until they are evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Check the pie frequently to make sure it does not overcook or burn. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
- Once the pie is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely before serving.
- Slice the pie and serve.
