Southern pecan pie is a timeless dessert that graces tables during holidays and special gatherings alike. With its rich, caramel-like filling and a generous helping of toasted pecans, this pie is truly a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easy to follow, delivering a perfectly balanced sweet and nutty flavor wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just because, this pecan pie is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust, unbaked (store-bought like Pillsbury or made from scratch)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 cups pecans, quartered
Instructions
- Oven Preparation: Begin by setting your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan, crimping the edges if desired. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Pecans: Fold in the quartered pecans, stirring gently to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Arrange a few extra pecan halves on top if desired for a decorative look.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the center is only slightly jiggly. If the crust begins to brown too rapidly, shield the edges with aluminum foil to avoid excessive browning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature, letting the filling set. Slice and serve at room temperature or warmed, with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Conclusion
This classic Southern pecan pie is as easy as it is delicious. With a rich, gooey filling and a satisfying crunch from the pecans, it’s sure to make any holiday or gathering extra special. Enjoy this sweet, nutty pie with family and friends, and let the warm flavors bring a little Southern comfort to your table.