Southern Pecan Pie is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of the South to any gathering. With its rich, sweet filling interspersed with crunchy pecans, it’s a family favorite for holidays, special occasions, or simply to enjoy on a cozy night at home. I fondly remember the warm aroma wafting from the kitchen as my grandmother whipped up this classic treat. It’s a recipe that elicits nostalgia and comfort with every bite, letting everyone savor a slice of tradition.
Why Make This Recipe
There are endless reasons to try making this Southern Pecan Pie at home. For starters, it’s an incredibly quick recipe that requires minimal effort yet yields maximum flavor. The combination of sweet corn syrup, sugar, and eggs creates a decadent filling that perfectly complements the nuttiness of pecans, making it a treat that pleases both kids and adults alike. Whether for Thanksgiving, a family gathering, or just as a mid-week dessert, this pie is sure to delight everyone at your table.
"This cake disappeared in minutes at our family gathering, definitely a keeper," says a happy home baker.
How to Make Southern Pecan Pie
Making Southern Pecan Pie is straightforward and rewarding. You begin by preheating your oven to create the perfect baking environment. In a mixing bowl, you’ll combine corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing well to ensure a smooth, cohesive filling. Adding the pecans is a delightful step where you stir them in, creating pockets of crunch throughout the filling. Once everything is combined, pour this luscious mixture into an unbaked pie crust, sending it off to bake until it’s set and deliciously golden. After baking, let the pie cool, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up before slicing into it.
Ingredients
Gather these items to create your Southern Pecan Pie:
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pecans
1 unbaked pie crust
Feel free to use dark corn syrup for a deeper flavor or substitute the sugar with brown sugar for a richer taste.
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Stir in the pecans until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let cool before serving.
How to Serve Southern Pecan Pie
This pie is best served warm or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a lovely contrast to the rich filling. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top for an extra touch of sweetness. Alternatively, pairing a slice with a cup of coffee makes for a comforting end to any meal. For special occasions, consider plating it with some fresh berries for added color and flavor.
How to Store
To keep your leftover Southern Pecan Pie fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covering it loosely with plastic wrap. It will last for up to four days. If you’d like to freeze it, wrap the pie tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap once cooled, and place it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bring it to room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make
For perfect Southern Pecan Pie, here are a few helpful tips. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a smoother filling. Don’t overbake the pie; keep an eye on it during the last minutes in the oven to avoid a crust that is too dark. If you’re unsure about how set the filling should be, gently shake the pie; the center should jiggle slightly but not be liquid. Lastly, let it cool completely before slicing, allowing the filling to firm up nicely.
Variations
Get creative with your Southern Pecan Pie by trying out different flavor combinations. You could add a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult twist, or incorporate chocolate chips for a decadent touch. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using a gluten-free pie crust or trying a nut-free version by substituting the pecans with chocolate or fruit. Seasonal variations can also be fun; adding a hint of pumpkin spice in the fall will give your pie a festive flair.
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie crust and filling in advance. Just assemble and bake it the day of serving for the best texture.
What can I do if my pie filling seems too runny?
If your filling is overly jiggly even after baking, it may need more time in the oven. Keep baking until it is set.
Can I use roasted pecans?
Absolutely! Roasted pecans add an extra layer of flavor, but ensure they are unsalted to maintain balance.
How do I prevent the crust from burning?
If you notice the edges of the crust browning too quickly, cover the outer rim of the pie with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
For More Recipe Inspiration
For more delightful recipes, you might enjoy our cozy Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse or the fun Mini Bento Cake Recipe. Each provides an opportunity to create delicious treats that your family will love.
Stay connected and find more inspiration by visiting our Pinterest page:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/
Southern Pecan Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Stir in the pecans until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let cool before serving.