Pecan Pie Recipe: Southern Comfort in Every Bite

Indulge your taste buds in the sweet, nutty embrace of a classic Southern dessert with our Pecan Pie recipe. Whether you’re planning a grand holiday feast, a cozy family gathering, or just yearning for a slice of comfort, this comprehensive guide will walk you through creating the perfect pecan pie, step by step. From crafting a flaky, golden-brown crust to whipping up the gooey, caramelized pecan filling, every morsel delivers an exquisite fusion of textures and flavors, leaving you with an irresistible craving for more.

Pecan Pie Recipe Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Pecan Pie Recipe Directions

How to Prepare the Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: Start by taking a mixing bowl and combining the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Add the Butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter into the bowl containing the dry ingredients.
3. Blend the Butter In: Use a pastry cutter or simply your fingertips to blend the butter into the flour mixture. Keep going until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually Add Ice Water: Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, to the mixture. Mix it gently until the dough starts coming together.
5. Shape and Chill: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

How to Prepare the Filling

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a spacious bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Ensure that the mixture is well-combined.
3. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the pecan halves into the mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.

Assembling the Pie

1. Roll Out the Crust: Roll out the chilled pie crust on a floured surface until it’s large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
2. Transfer to Pie Dish: Carefully transfer the rolled-out crust into the pie dish, pressing it against the sides.
3. Fill with Pecan Mixture: Pour the prepared pecan filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the pie is set, and the crust takes on a beautiful golden-brown hue.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Active Time: Around 20 minutes
• Inactive Time (Chilling): 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 50-60 minutes

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 456
• Fat: 23g
• Cholesterol: 83mg
• Sodium: 203mg
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 49g
• Protein: 4g

Storage Conditions

To ensure your pecan pie recipe remains fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate the pie for up to a week. Wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing odors.
• Freezer: If you’re planning for the long term, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to maintain its flavor.

Pecan Pie Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
   • Yes, absolutely! You can use a store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
   • While pecans are traditional and add a unique flavor, you can experiment with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a twist.
3. Do I have to use corn syrup?
   • Corn syrup is the classic choice that gives pecan pie its signature texture, but you can use alternatives like maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.
4. How do I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?
   • To prevent a soggy crust, consider blind-baking the crust (pre-baking without filling) for about 10 minutes before adding the pecan filling.
5. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the pecan pie recipe a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing you to save time and savor the flavors when you’re ready.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Pecan Pie recipe is your ticket to a Southern dessert masterpiece. With its buttery crust and luscious pecan filling, it embodies the rich culinary tradition of the American South. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a craving for something sweet, this Pecan Pie Recipe will delight your taste buds. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a baking journey that will leave everyone at the table wanting seconds. Enjoy this delightful slice of Southern hospitality!

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