If you have a bit of a sweet tooth and a special place in your heart for classic Southern desserts, this Southern Pecan Pie Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Rich, gooey, and packed with buttery pecans nestled inside a flaky, buttery crust, this pie is the epitome of comfort and tradition. The perfect blend of sweet corn syrup and brown sugar creates that signature caramel-like filling that pecan pie lovers crave, making each slice a delightful experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Whipping up this Southern Pecan Pie Recipe is delightfully simple, and the ingredients you’ll use are essential in building its iconic texture and flavor. Each component plays a starring role, from the buttery pie crust that cradles the filling to the pecan halves lending that irresistible crunch and nutty richness.
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust: Choose a good-quality crust for a flaky and tender base that holds all the goodness together.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: This ingredient brings that classic, luscious sweetness and a sticky smooth texture.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds depth with its subtle molasses flavor and enhances the pie’s rich caramel notes.
- 3 large eggs: Essential for binding the filling into a soft, custard-like consistency.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Infuses the filling with buttery richness and a velvety finish.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: A touch of warmth and aromatic sweetness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness and amplify the overall taste.
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves: Toast them lightly if you want to amplify their nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
How to Make Southern Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly warm and ready to bake the pie to golden-brown perfection.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, light brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, pure vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully combined. This luscious mixture is the heart of your pie, promising a perfectly gooey texture once baked.
Step 3: Arrange the Pecans
Place your unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish. Spread the pecan halves evenly over the bottom of the crust so that every slice will have a generous nutty topping.
Step 4: Pour the Filling
Gently pour the prepared filling over the pecans. As the pie bakes, the pecans will naturally rise to the top, giving the pie its signature look and delightful crunch on every slice.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the pie to the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on the crust edges; if they brown too quickly, cover them with foil during the last 15 minutes to prevent burning. The center should be set and slightly puffed when done.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This cooling time allows the filling to firm up perfectly, making each slice clean and beautiful.
How to Serve Southern Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish can elevate your Southern Pecan Pie Recipe from everyday delicious to truly show-stopping. A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool contrast to the warm, nutty, and sweet profile of the pie. For an extra special touch, sprinkle a few chopped toasted pecans on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments that won’t compete with its richness. A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette or a cup of strong coffee balances the sweetness perfectly. For holiday dinners, a side of spiced sweet potatoes or roasted vegetables complements the Southern vibe beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve individual mini pecan pies in ramekins or cut the pie into bite-sized squares for a dessert platter. Drizzle caramel sauce over the slices for added flair and extra indulgence. These little touches can make your Southern Pecan Pie Recipe feel like a festive treat that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Southern Pecan Pie keeps well when stored covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the pie in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days without losing its texture or taste.
Freezing
If you want to make this Southern Pecan Pie Recipe ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best results.
Reheating
To enjoy the pie warm, reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until gently warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy. Serving warm makes the filling delightfully gooey and the crust buttery crisp again.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! An unbaked store-bought pie crust works perfectly for this Southern Pecan Pie Recipe and saves time. Just make sure it’s fully thawed if previously frozen.
Should I toast the pecans before adding them?
Toasting pecans is optional but highly recommended. It brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor and adds a lovely crunch that enhances the pie’s overall taste.
How do I know when the pecan pie is done?
The center should be set with a slight jiggle when gently shaken. It will also puff up a bit and then settle as it cools. If the crust edges brown too fast, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, swap the traditional pie crust for a gluten-free crust available at most stores or make your own. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.
What is the best way to serve this pie?
The classic way is with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, which adds a creamy contrast to the rich, sweet pie. Warm or room temperature, both work beautifully!
Final Thoughts
This Southern Pecan Pie Recipe is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its luscious filling and perfectly crisp pecans, it’s the kind of pie that invites you to savor every bite and share with loved ones. Give it a try at your next gathering, and prepare for compliments and requests to bake it again and again!
Print
Southern Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Pecan Pie is a classic American dessert featuring a rich, gooey filling of corn syrup, brown sugar, and pecan halves nestled in a flaky, buttery pie crust. Perfect for holidays and special occasions, it delivers a sweet, nutty flavor that embodies Southern tradition.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the correct temperature before baking.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed light brown sugar, eggs, melted unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and completely combined.
- Assemble the pie: Place the unbaked 9-inch pie crust in a pie dish. Spread the pecan halves evenly over the bottom of the crust to create a nutty base layer.
- Pour the filling: Carefully pour the prepared syrupy filling mixture over the pecans. The pecans will naturally float to the top as baking progresses, creating the classic pecan pie appearance.
- Bake the pie: Transfer the pie to the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Monitor the crust edges, and if they brown too quickly, cover them with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking to prevent burning. The pie is done when the center is set and slightly puffed.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This allows the filling to set properly before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
- For added depth of flavor, lightly toast the pecans before placing them in the pie crust.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a classic Southern touch.
- Cover pie edges with foil if they brown too fast during baking.
