Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: pecan cream pie. This pie is a delightful combination of rich, creamy filling and a satisfying crunch from the pecans on top. The moment you take a bite, you’re greeted with that sweet, buttery flavor that just melts in your mouth! It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes and savor every single bite. I love making this for family gatherings or just because I need a sweet treat to brighten my day. Trust me, once you try this pecan cream pie, you’ll want to keep it in your dessert rotation forever. It’s not just a pie; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that you simply can’t resist!
Ingredients List
- 1 pie crust: You can use a pre-made pie crust for convenience, or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 1 cup pecans, chopped: Make sure to roughly chop the pecans to get that perfect crunch in every bite.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what will make your whipped topping extra rich and delicious.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: This adds the right amount of sweetness to the filling and the whipped cream.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the flavors and brings it all together beautifully.
- 3 large eggs: These act as the binder for your filling, giving it that luscious texture.
- 1 cup corn syrup: This is key for that gooey, sweet filling that makes pecan cream pie so special.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Make sure it’s melted and cooled slightly before adding to the mix, so it incorporates smoothly.
How to Prepare Pecan Cream Pie
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your pecan cream pie bakes evenly and sets just right. If you skip this step, you might end up with a pie that’s undercooked in the middle or overcooked on the edges. So, let that oven get nice and toasty while you get everything else ready!
Mixing the Filling
Now, grab a mixing bowl and let’s start creating that luscious filling! Begin by whisking together the corn syrup, eggs, and melted butter until it’s all well combined. Next, add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this is where the magic starts to happen! You want everything to blend seamlessly, so don’t rush this step.
Incorporating Pecans
Once your filling is nice and smooth, it’s time to fold in those beautiful chopped pecans. Gently add them to the mixture and use a spatula to fold them in. Be careful not to overmix; you just want to evenly distribute the pecans. Overmixing can make your filling tough, and we definitely don’t want that!
Pouring and Baking
Now it’s time to pour that delicious filling into your pie crust. Make sure your crust is ready, whether it’s store-bought or homemade. Carefully pour the mixture into the crust, filling it just to the top. Then, pop it into the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and a little jiggle remains in the center—trust me, it’ll firm up as it cools!
Cooling and Whipping Cream
After baking, let your pie cool completely on a wire rack. This is crucial, as it allows the filling to fully set. While it cools, you can whip up the heavy cream. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer and whip until soft peaks form. This is the perfect topping that will add a light and airy finish to your already dreamy pie!
Finishing Touches
Once the pie has cooled, it’s time for the grand finale! Spread that whipped cream over the top of the pie generously—don’t be shy! And if you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some additional pecans on top for that gorgeous finish and extra crunch. Your pecan cream pie is now ready to be devoured, and I guarantee it’ll be a showstopper at any gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have this pie ready in no time!
- Rich Flavors: The combination of sweet corn syrup, buttery pecans, and creamy whipped topping creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe walks you through each step so you can feel confident in your baking skills.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This pecan cream pie is sure to impress family and friends, making it a fantastic dessert for holidays, parties, or just because!
- Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat or at room temperature for a more traditional pie experience—either way, it’s delicious!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about some insider tips to make sure your pecan cream pie turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Use a Pre-baked Pie Crust: For the best texture, I highly recommend using a pre-baked pie crust. This ensures a nice, crispy base that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. If you’re feeling ambitious, go ahead and make your crust from scratch, just be sure to bake it first!
- Cool Completely: Patience is key! Let your pie cool completely before adding the whipped cream. This step is crucial because it allows the filling to set properly, ensuring that your pie slices hold their shape when served.
- Chill for Refreshing Flavor: Serving your pecan cream pie chilled is a game-changer! It enhances the flavors and gives it a refreshing taste, especially on a warm day. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
- Whip Your Cream Just Right: When whipping the heavy cream, keep an eye on it! You want soft peaks, not stiff peaks. Overwhipping can lead to a grainy texture, and we want that light, airy topping that complements the pie perfectly.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t hold back on garnishing with extra pecans! Not only does it look beautiful, but it also adds that delightful crunch that makes every bite a pleasure. Plus, it makes your pie look extra fancy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve got some delicious pecan cream pie leftovers—lucky you! To keep your pie fresh and tasty, store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help maintain that wonderful creamy texture and keep it from drying out. It’ll stay good for about 3-4 days, but trust me, it probably won’t last that long!
If you find yourself craving a slice later on, no need to worry about reheating! This pie is best served chilled, so just take it out of the fridge and enjoy it right away. However, if you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy that rich filling and delightful crunch of the pecans at their best. Just remember, no reheating needed—enjoy it as is and savor every bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s break down the estimated nutritional information for each slice of this delightful pecan cream pie. Keep in mind that these values are approximations and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and how you prepare the pie. Here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
This pie is definitely a treat, so enjoy it in moderation! It’s rich and satisfying, making it the perfect dessert for special occasions or whenever you need a little indulgence in your life.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional for this cream pie, you can experiment with walnuts or even hazelnuts for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change, but it’s always fun to try something new!
How do I know when my pecan cream pie is done baking?
You’ll want to look for a slightly jiggly center that sets as it cools. The edges should be firm, and the filling will puff up a bit during baking. If it looks overly jiggly, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Just be careful not to overbake, as that can lead to a dry filling!
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can! In fact, making your pecan cream pie a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator after it cools completely. It’ll be just as delicious the next day, if not better!
What should I serve with pecan cream pie?
While it’s absolutely delightful on its own, you can serve your pecan cream pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra indulgence. Fresh berries also make a lovely, refreshing contrast to the rich filling!
Is pecan cream pie gluten-free?
Not inherently, since it typically uses a traditional pie crust made with wheat flour. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust or even a crust made from crushed nuts or gluten-free cookies. Just check your ingredients to be sure!
Pecan Cream Pie: 7 Ways to Indulge in Pure Bliss
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious pecan cream pie with a rich filling and crunchy pecan topping.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix corn syrup, eggs, and melted butter.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, stir until smooth.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until set.
- Let it cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over the cooled pie.
- Garnish with additional pecans if desired.
Notes
- Use a pre-baked pie crust for best results.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Serve chilled for a refreshing taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: pecan cream pie, dessert, pie recipe
