Southern Pecan Pie

Name: Southern Pecan Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pre-made or homemade pie crust; 1 ½ cups fresh pecans, chopped; 1 cup dark brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup light corn syrup; ¼ cup melted butter; Pinch of salt

Published: February 26, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Southern Pecan Pie is incredibly easy to prepare and requires simple ingredients
Its rich flavor profile balances sweetness and nuttiness perfectly
The golden crust and shiny filling make it visually stunning for any occasion
Ideal for holidays or casual gatherings, this pie is always a crowd-pleaser!

I remember the first time I made this pie; my friends devoured it in minutes and declared me the “Pecan Pie Queen.” Who knew I had such royal baking potential?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pie Crust: A pre-made or homemade crust works well; choose one that’s flaky and buttery for ultimate satisfaction.
Pecans: Use fresh pecans for the best flavor; toast them lightly to enhance their natural nuttiness.
Brown Sugar: Opt for dark brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the nuts.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are ideal; they help bind everything together while adding richness.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds an aromatic sweetness; avoid imitation for that authentic taste.
Light Corn Syrup: This holds everything together while providing that signature sticky texture we love in a pecan pie.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Oven and Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using homemade dough, roll it out into a 9-inch circle and place it in a pie pan. Trim excess dough.

Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. The mixture should be glossy and fragrant.

Add Pecans to Filling: Stir in chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout your luscious filling. This step is where all that nutty goodness comes into play.

Pour into Crust: Carefully pour the filling into the prepared crust. Ensure it’s filled generously but not overflowing—no one wants caramelized puddles on their oven floor!

Bake to Perfection: Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The edges should turn golden brown.

Cool Before Serving: Let your pie cool completely before slicing—this allows the filling to firm up nicely. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!

Enjoy every gooey bite of your homemade Southern Pecan Pie!

You Must Know

This Southern Pecan Pie recipe creates a delightful balance of sweet and nutty flavors
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for a slice
It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing a taste of the South to your table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your pie crust; chill it while you mix the filling to ensure a flaky texture. Bake it partially before adding the pecan mixture to prevent sogginess.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding chocolate chips or bourbon for a unique twist on classic Southern Pecan Pie. A pinch of sea salt enhances the flavors beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your pecans are fresh; stale nuts can ruin this delectable dessert
Consider using light corn syrup, which keeps the filling perfectly smooth
Always cool your pie completely before slicing to maintain its structure and avoid messiness

I remember making this Southern Pecan Pie for Thanksgiving last year, and my cousin declared it “life-changing.” Hearing that made all those hours worth it!

FAQ

What’s the best way to prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Blind bake your crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes, walnuts can be used as a substitute if you prefer.

How long does Southern Pecan Pie last?

It lasts up to three days at room temperature when stored properly.

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📖 Recipe Card