Welcome to the delightful world of pies with a twist! This Honey Bourbon Pecan Pie combines the timeless flavors of a classic pecan pie with a subtle kick of bourbon and the natural sweetness of honey. It's perfect for cozy gatherings or as a standout dessert at your next family dinner.
Pie crust: The foundation of any good pie. Opt for a homemade one if you have time, but store-bought works just as well in a pinch.
Light corn syrup: Acts as a sweetener and helps the pie set with a smooth texture.
Honey: Introduces a natural sweetness and a hint of floral undertone, enhancing the overall flavor.
Granulated sugar: Adds extra sweetness, balancing out the other flavors.
Unsalted butter: Gives richness and a silky texture to the filling.
Eggs: Key in binding the filling together, ensuring it sets properly.
Bourbon: Adds complexity and depth; the alcohol mostly cooks off, leaving behind a warm, rich flavor.
Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors; always use pure vanilla for the best taste.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.
Pecan halves: The star of the show, they add crunch and a rich, buttery flavor.
This pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the crunchy texture and rich flavors of the pie, creating a perfect harmony. A glass of bourbon or a hot cup of black tea can also enhance the tasting experience.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures it's ready to go once your pie is assembled. While the oven heats up, take a large bowl and whisk together the corn syrup, honey, sugar, melted butter, eggs, bourbon, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Next, arrange the pecan halves evenly in your unbaked pie crust. This ensures every slice has a good amount of pecans. Slowly pour the filling mixture over the pecans, making sure they are all well-coated.
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips, and slide it into your preheated oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes. You'll know it's done when the filling is set and the top has a lovely golden brown color. Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This cooling time is crucial as it allows the pie to set further and makes slicing a breeze.