Pecan Pie

Pecan Pie

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Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Servings: 8 – 10 Servings
Yield: 1 pie

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PECAN PIE

Pecan pie is a classic American dessert, often served during the holidays but also enjoyed year-round for its rich and sweet flavors. With a buttery, crisp pastry and a filling that’s both caramelized and slightly crunchy from the pecans, this pie is a true treat. Easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, it will bring a touch of elegance to your festive meals.

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE PASTRY

  • 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 125 g (1/2 cup) cold butter, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2-3 tablespoons cold water

FOR THE PECAN FILLING

  • 300 g (2 1/2 cups) pecans (whole or chopped)
  • 200 g (1 cup) brown sugar (packed)
  • 100 g (1/2 cup) butter
  • 3 large eggs
  • 150 ml (2/3 cup) corn syrup (or maple syrup for a different flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch of salt
Pecan Pie
Pecan Pie
 

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. PREPARE THE PASTRY

  • Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the sugar. Mix well.
  • Incorporate the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter into the bowl. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until the texture becomes crumbly and uneven.
  • Add the egg yolk and water: Add the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Mix quickly. Add another tablespoon of water if necessary, but don’t overdo it to avoid making the dough too wet.
  • Form and chill the dough: Gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
  • Fit the dough into the tart pan: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 3 mm thick. Place it into a 9-inch tart pan. Press it into the edges and trim any excess dough. You can also create a decorative edge by crimping the edges.
  • Blind bake the crust: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place a sheet of parchment paper over the pastry and add pie weights or dried beans to weigh it down. Bake for about 15 minutes. Then, remove the paper and weights, and let the crust cool slightly.

  1. PREPARE THE PECAN FILLING

  • Melt the butter: In a saucepan, place the butter and heat it over low heat. Stir occasionally as it melts to ensure that it doesn’t burn. Allow the butter to melt completely until it becomes a smooth liquid, ensuring that the heat remains low to avoid browning the butter.
  • Incorporate the brown sugar and corn syrup (or maple syrup): Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup (or maple syrup), mixing until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
  • Cool the mixture: Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  • Add the eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs, then slowly whisk them into the cooled butter and sugar mixture.
  • Add vanilla and salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, stirring until well combined. Finally, add the pecans (whole or chopped, depending on your preference).
  • Pour the filling: Pour the pecan mixture into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.

  1. BAKE THE PECAN PIE

  • Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. Should the crust edges darken too fast, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
  • Cool: Let the pie cool for 30 minutes to 1 hour before slicing, to allow the filling to firm up.
Pecan Pie
Pecan Pie

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR PECAN PIE

  • Pecans: Whole pecans will give a nice presentation and a crunchy texture. If you prefer a smoother filling, you can use chopped pecans.
  • Maple Syrup Option: For a richer, more complex flavor, you can swap the corn syrup for maple syrup. It will add a lovely caramelized, woody note.
  • Storage: This pie keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. It can be served either cold or slightly warmed for a more indulgent texture.
  • Serving suggestion: For an even more indulgent treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

CHEF’S TIP

If you don’t have corn syrup on hand, you can replace it with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind this may slightly alter the flavor. The maple syrup version gives a wonderfully deep, caramelized flavor.

This Pecan Pie is a perfect dessert for anyone who loves rich, comforting treats. The sweetness of the brown sugar and the crunchiness of the pecans create a wonderful balance when paired with the buttery, crisp pastry. This pie is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite at any occasion! Enjoy!

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