Pecan pie is a classic dessert that has a special place in many hearts, particularly around the holiday season. It's rich, nutty, and indulgent β a true treat for those who love desserts with a bit of crunch. This recipe is straightforward enough for beginners but satisfying for seasoned bakers.
Pie shell: The foundation of our pie, it holds the filling together. Store-bought or homemade, your choice!
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the pie and helps create that classic gooey texture.
Light corn syrup: Adds sweetness and ensures the pie has a smooth, cohesive filling.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor, helping to bind everything together.
Eggs: Essential for setting the filling, giving it structure and body.
Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor and adds warmth to the pie.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Pecan halves: The star of the show, providing crunch and a distinctive nutty flavor.
For a delightful experience, serve your pecan pie slightly warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the nutty sweetness. Consider a light dusting of cinnamon for added aroma and flavor.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) so it's ready to go when you are. This step is all about multitasking, so while the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. You want everything well combined, with no streaks of egg whites.
Once your mixture is smooth, toss in those beautiful pecan halves. Stir them around gently so every pecan gets a nice coating of the sweet, buttery mixture. Now, take your unbaked 9-inch pie shell and pour the filling in. Try to spread the pecans evenly β they should float up to the top naturally, creating that classic pecan pie look.
Place the pie on a baking sheet. This not only makes it easier to handle but also catches any potential drips. Slide it into your preheated oven for about 60 to 70 minutes. Youβre looking for a golden brown color, and the center should be set β not jiggly like jelly, but not rock hard either. Let it cool before slicing in; this will help the filling firm up just right.