Introduction
Welcome to this delicious and easy pecan pie recipe! If you’re a fan of rich and nutty desserts, then this recipe is a must-try. Pecan pie is a classic American dessert that is loved for its sweet and gooey filling, packed with crunchy pecans. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this pecan pie recipe is a standout. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering pie ready to be enjoyed. Additionally, this recipe yields a pie with a perfect balance of flavors – the sweetness of the filling is beautifully complemented by the nuttiness of the pecans. Lastly, this pecan pie is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making it a great option for family gatherings or potluck parties.
Ingredients
For the crust:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 4-5 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup light corn syrup
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups pecan halves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the crust. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle that’s slightly larger than your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Arrange the pecan halves evenly on the bottom of the pie crust. Pour the filling mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are all coated.
7. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before serving. This will allow the filling to set properly.
Expert Tips for Success
– To achieve a flaky crust, make sure your butter is cold and cut it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
– If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar in the filling to 1 ½ cups.
– For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling mixture.
Variations and Substitutions
– If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use a whole wheat or almond flour crust instead of all-purpose flour.
– Feel free to experiment with different nuts in this recipe. Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives to pecans.
– If you have dietary restrictions, you can use a vegan butter substitute and replace the eggs with a flaxseed or applesauce mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This pecan pie is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy and cool elements will beautifully complement the warm and sweet pie. To add some contrast, you can also serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this pie in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make this pecan pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
Q: How should I store any leftover pie?
A: Leftover pecan pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Again, make sure to cover it properly to prevent it from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze this pie?
A: Yes, pecan pie can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a foolproof recipe for a mouthwatering pecan pie. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe will not disappoint. The combination of the buttery and flaky crust with the sweet and nutty filling is simply irresistible. So go ahead, give it a try, and indulge in a slice of homemade pecan pie goodness. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us!
Easy Pecan Pie
Indulge in the rich and nutty goodness of this classic American pecan pie. It features a sweet and gooey filling packed with crunchy pecans, all nestled in a buttery and flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion or as a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the crust. Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough.
- Whisk together granulated sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
- Arrange pecan halves on the bottom of the crust, then pour the filling mixture over the pecans.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.
Nutrition Facts
