Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a classic Southern dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make, look no further than this Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual weeknight desserts. With its rich, buttery pecans and sweet, gooey filling, this pecan pie is bound to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pecan pie is a true Southern staple. The combination of crispy pecans and the sweet, custard-like filling is a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, this recipe is foolproof and will deliver a perfectly golden pie every time. It’s the perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, and buttery flavors all wrapped up in a flaky pie crust.

Ingredients for Southern Pecan Pie

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious pecan pie:

• 1 (9-inch) unbaked or frozen pie crust: You can use a store-bought pie crust or make your own from scratch.
• 2 ½ cups pecans, coarsely chopped: These form the crunchy, nutty base of the pie.
• 3 large eggs (room temperature): Eggs help set the filling and provide a custardy texture.
• 1 cup light or dark corn syrup: This provides sweetness and gives the filling its signature sticky texture.
• ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar: Adds depth and a caramel-like sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Adds richness and flavor to the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the pie.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the pie.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• 9-inch pie pan (if using unbaked pie crust)
• Baking sheet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Southern Pecan Pie

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly.

2. Prepare the Pie Crust

Place the unbaked or frozen pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. If using a homemade crust, roll it out and fit it into the pan, crimping the edges for a decorative touch.

3. Add the Pecans

Spread the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the pie crust. The pecans will rise to the top during baking, creating a beautiful and crunchy layer.

4. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.

5. Pour the Filling

Pour the filling mixture over the pecans in the pie crust. The pecans will naturally float to the top.

6. Bake the Pie

Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes. The pie is ready when the center is slightly jiggly but the edges are firm and set. If the crust starts to brown too much, you can cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.

7. Cool and Serve

Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This gives the filling time to fully set, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-baking the pie: Overcooking can result in a hard, overly set filling. Be sure to take the pie out when the center still has a slight jiggle.
• Soggy crust: To avoid a soggy bottom crust, use a high-quality pie crust or pre-bake your homemade crust for a few minutes before adding the filling.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting the pie cool for a couple of hours is crucial. Cutting into it too soon may cause the filling to ooze out.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pecan Pie

• Toast the pecans: For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the pie. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
• Use dark corn syrup: If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for dark corn syrup instead of light. It will give the pie a deeper color and more intense sweetness.
• Enhance with chocolate: For a fun twist, add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate-pecan pie variation.

How to Serve and Present Your Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is best served at room temperature, but it can also be enjoyed warm. For an extra indulgent touch, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. To make the presentation even more eye-catching, sprinkle a few whole toasted pecans on top of the pie before serving.

Storage Instructions for Pecan Pie

If you have leftovers, cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to five days. You can also freeze pecan pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes.

Pecan Pie Variations

While the classic pecan pie is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to customize it:

• Maple Pecan Pie: Replace the corn syrup with maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
• Chocolate Pecan Pie: Stir in ½ cup of semisweet chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent upgrade.
• Walnut or Almond Pie: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds to experiment with different flavors and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?
Yes! Pecan pie can be made up to two days in advance and stored at room temperature or refrigerated. Just be sure to let it cool completely before covering it to prevent condensation.

How do I know when my pecan pie is done?
The edges of the pie should be firm, and the center should have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. If the entire pie is wobbly, it needs more time in the oven.

Why did my pecan pie filling not set?
If your filling is runny, it might be undercooked or didn’t cool long enough. Be sure to bake until the center jiggles slightly and cool completely before serving.

Can I freeze pecan pie?
Yes, pecan pie freezes beautifully! Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

This Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a classic Southern dessert. With its rich, gooey filling and crunchy pecans, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether it’s for the holidays or just a regular weeknight, this pecan pie will never disappoint. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more delicious recipes!

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