Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s rich, buttery, and full of Southern charm, this Easy Southern Pecan Pie is just the recipe you need! A beloved classic in Southern kitchens, pecan pie is known for its simple preparation and the heavenly combination of crunchy pecans and a gooey, caramel-like filling. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to making pies, this recipe will guide you to a perfectly baked, sweet, and nutty treat. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make the best Southern pecan pie you’ve ever tasted!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie

This Southern pecan pie is perfect for anyone who loves a dessert that’s indulgent but not too difficult to make. The recipe is straightforward, requires just a few simple ingredients, and results in a delicious pie with a perfectly balanced flavor. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a weekend treat, or a special occasion, this pecan pie will always impress.

What makes this pie stand out? The mix of sweet corn syrup, rich brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon creates a luxurious filling. When paired with the buttery crust and crunchy pecans, it’s pure comfort in every bite. Plus, you can choose between light or dark corn syrup and brown sugar, giving you control over how deep or light the flavors are.

Ingredients for the Best Southern Pecan Pie

To make this delicious pie, you only need a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (9-inch) unbaked or frozen pie crust – Choose your favorite store-bought crust or make your own for an extra touch of homemade goodness.
• 2 ½ cups pecans, coarsely chopped – The star of the show! Chopped pecans ensure you get a piece of nutty goodness in every bite.
• 3 large eggs, room temperature – Eggs help set the filling, so it has that perfect, gooey texture.
• 1 cup light or dark corn syrup – Light corn syrup will give a milder flavor, while dark corn syrup adds a deeper, more robust caramel taste.
• ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar – Like the corn syrup, light brown sugar will provide a lighter flavor, while dark brown sugar will make the pie richer.
• 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, slightly cooled – Adds richness and helps create that velvety texture in the filling.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Vanilla gives the pie an aromatic sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the pie’s flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the pecans.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Southern Pecan Pie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven ensures the pie bakes evenly, creating that perfectly set, golden-brown top.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

If you’re using a frozen or store-bought pie crust, let it thaw according to the package instructions. If you’re making a homemade pie crust, roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. There’s no need to prebake the crust for this recipe.

Step 3: Add the Pecans

Scatter the coarsely chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of the unbaked pie shell. This will ensure that the pecans are distributed evenly throughout the filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully combined. Pour the filling mixture over the pecans in the pie crust.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. The center of the pie should have just a slight jiggle when gently shaken, but the edges should be set. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil halfway through the baking time.

Step 6: Cool the Pie

Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This will give the filling time to set properly and make it easier to cut clean slices.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this Southern pecan pie recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Foil (to protect the pie crust edges, if needed)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pecan pie is relatively simple, but here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overbaking the pie: Keep an eye on the pie towards the end of the baking time. The center should have a slight jiggle, not be completely firm. Overbaking can cause the filling to become too hard.
• Using cold eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to avoid the filling splitting or curdling.
• Burning the crust: If the edges of your crust are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield to prevent burning.

Pecan Pie Recipe Tips and Variations

This classic pecan pie recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas to change things up:

• Chocolate Pecan Pie: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
• Bourbon Pecan Pie: For a non-alcoholic variation, add a teaspoon of non-alcoholic bourbon extract for a hint of warmth and flavor depth.
• Maple Pecan Pie: Swap the corn syrup for pure maple syrup to create a slightly different, but equally delicious, flavor profile.
• Extra Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top before baking for an even crunchier finish.

How to Serve and Present Your Pecan Pie

When serving your Southern pecan pie, presentation is everything. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a truly decadent experience. For a beautiful presentation, drizzle a little caramel sauce over the top of each slice, and garnish with a few whole pecans. This will make your pie look as irresistible as it tastes!

How to Store and Freeze Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though it’s doubtful with a pie this delicious!), you can store them easily. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing: To freeze pecan pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Store the pie in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a low oven for about 10 minutes.

FAQs about Southern Pecan Pie

Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make pecan pie up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Do I need to refrigerate pecan pie?
Yes, because of the eggs in the filling, it’s best to refrigerate pecan pie after it has cooled. It will keep for up to 4 days.

What’s the difference between light and dark corn syrup?
Light corn syrup has a milder flavor, while dark corn syrup has a more robust, molasses-like taste. You can use either in this recipe, depending on your flavor preference.

Conclusion

This Easy Southern Pecan Pie recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic, rich, and flavorful desserts. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a no-fail pie that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re making it for the holidays or a special gathering, this pie is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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