Pecan pie is more than just a dessert in the South; it’s a symbol of hospitality and tradition. Growing up, I can’t tell you how many family gatherings were graced by the presence of this sweet, nutty delight. My grandmother would whip up her famous pecan pie with a twinkle in her eye, knowing it would steal the show. This Southern classic has its roots deep in Southern cuisine, often associated with holidays and special occasions. The combination of rich corn syrup, brown sugar, and crunchy pecans creates a filling that’s both sweet and satisfying, making it the perfect ending to any meal.
But it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories woven into each slice. Whether enjoyed at Thanksgiving or a Sunday dinner, pecan pie brings everyone together, evoking warmth and nostalgia with every bite. I love how easy it is to make, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply heavenly. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe for Southern classic pecan pie that will surely become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Southern Classic
To whip up this delightful Southern classic pecan pie, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, sweet masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Prepared pie crust: You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous. Either way, make sure it’s ready to hold all that delicious filling!
- 1 cup corn syrup: This sweet syrup gives the pie its signature gooey filling. You can use light or dark corn syrup, but I prefer dark for that deeper flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pecans beautifully. Make sure it’s packed well for the best results!
- 4 large eggs: These will bind everything together and create that lovely custard-like texture. Room temperature eggs work best, so pull them out of the fridge ahead of time.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Melted, of course! This adds richness and helps to create that perfect filling consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor and adds a warm aroma as it bakes.
- 2 cups chopped pecans: These are the stars of the show! Make sure they’re roughly chopped so you get those delightful nutty bites in every slice.
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to producing a pecan pie that’s sure to impress your friends and family!
How to Prepare Pecan Pie Southern Classic
Preheat the Oven
First things first, we need to get that oven warmed up! Preheating is crucial for even baking, so set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it do its thing for about 10-15 minutes. Trust me, this step makes a big difference in how your pie turns out. You want that filling to cook perfectly, and a hot oven is key to achieving that delightful texture.
Mix the Filling
Now, grab a mixing bowl and let’s get to the fun part! In the bowl, combine 1 cup of corn syrup, 1 cup of brown sugar, 4 large eggs, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. I like to whisk these ingredients together until they’re well combined and smooth. Make sure there are no lumps of sugar left; we want a silky filling! A good 2-3 minutes of whisking should do the trick, and it’s a great arm workout too!
Incorporate Pecans
Once your filling is nice and smooth, it’s time to add the stars of the show: the 2 cups of chopped pecans. Gently fold them into the mixture using a spatula or a wooden spoon. You want to be careful here; just stir until the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the filling. That way, every slice will have those delicious, crunchy bites!
Fill the Crust
Next up, let’s fill that prepared pie crust! If you’ve used a store-bought crust, make sure it’s thawed and ready to go. Carefully pour the pecan filling into the crust, taking your time to make sure it fills evenly. You don’t want to spill any of that deliciousness! If you’re feeling fancy, you can even arrange a few extra pecans on top for a beautiful presentation.
Bake the Pie
Now, it’s time to pop the pie in the oven! Bake it for about 60 minutes, but keep an eye on it as it gets close to the end. You’ll want to look for the filling to be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. You can also do a gentle shake of the pie to check; if it’s still too wobbly, give it a few more minutes. If the crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning. We want a stunning golden crust!
Cool Before Serving
Once your pie is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least two hours. This cooling time is essential as it allows the filling to set completely. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on top for that extra indulgence. Trust me, that creamy touch elevates this Southern classic to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Southern classic pecan pie is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sweet corn syrup, brown sugar, and crunchy pecans creates a decadent filling that’s simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this delightful pie in no time. It’s perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, family dinner, or just a regular Sunday, this pecan pie is always a hit and brings everyone together.
- Classic Southern Comfort: This pie is rooted in Southern tradition, making it a must-have dessert that evokes warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this pecan pie recipe is a beloved staple in Southern homes!
Nutritional Information for Pecan Pie Southern Classic
When it comes to indulging in a slice of this Southern classic pecan pie, it’s always good to know what you’re working with! Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per serving (1 piece) based on common ingredient values:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 5g
- Vitamin A: 300 IU
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 1mg
Keep in mind that these values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but they give you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoying a slice of this pecan pie is all about balance, so savor every delicious bite!
Tips for Success
To truly nail this Southern classic pecan pie, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips that’ll help you achieve the best results every time!
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: For a smooth filling, make sure your eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend more easily with the other ingredients, creating that perfect custard-like texture.
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: If you’re using a homemade crust, blind bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps set the crust so it stays nice and crisp even after baking!
- Chop Your Pecans Evenly: Aim for roughly chopped pecans rather than finely chopped. This ensures you get those delightful nutty bites in every slice while still allowing the filling to shine.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a pecan pie that’s not only delicious but also a showstopper at your next gathering!
FAQ About Pecan Pie Southern Classic
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! While pecans are the star of this Southern classic, you can certainly experiment with other nuts if you’re feeling adventurous. Walnuts or hazelnuts make great substitutes, adding their unique flavors to the pie. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste will vary slightly, but they can still deliver that nutty goodness!
How do I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with leftover pecan pie (which is a rare treat!), storing it properly is key to keeping it delicious. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving again for the best taste!
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this pecan pie ahead of time! It holds up well, so feel free to bake it a day or two in advance. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it up and storing it in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It’s best to consume it within a month, but once thawed, enjoy it within a few days for optimal flavor!
Serving Suggestions for Pecan Pie Southern Classic
Now that you’ve created this delightful Southern classic pecan pie, it’s time to think about how to serve it! While it’s delicious on its own, pairing it with a few tasty accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level.
For a classic combo, consider serving a slice of pecan pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. The lightness of the cream balances the rich, gooey filling perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm pie, creating a heavenly contrast of temperatures.
And don’t overlook the option of a robust cup of coffee or a warm cup of spiced chai—these drinks complement the nutty flavors of the pie wonderfully. Fresh seasonal fruits like berries or sliced apples can also add a refreshing touch to your plate. Whatever you choose, these pairings will make your pecan pie experience even more delightful!
For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out our Pinterest page!
Southern Classic Pecan Pie
Equipment
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 pie crust prepared pie crust Store-bought or homemade
For the Filling
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Add chopped pecans to the mixture and stir until combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let cool before serving.