Grandma’s Tried And True Pecan Pie

Most anyone with a sweet tooth has a soft spot for pecan pie. This classic dessert is a real favorite among dessert lovers, and for good reason. It’s sweet and nutty, and always brings back fond memories, so there’s a special place in our hearts for this classic treat. The best pecan pie has a smooth filling, a crunchy, nutty top, and a fully baked bottom crust. It’s not too sweet or rich as nut pies risk becoming. While we’ve made plenty of other pecan desserts, we realized we hadn’t yet shared our recently-discovered favorite of them all, the best and only pecan pie recipe you’ll ever need!

Before ever making it ourselves, we figured this pie would be tricky to make, so since then we’ve made it our goal to show others how simple it is to whip up! If you decide to make your own crust, you’ll have to tack on some more time, but the basics of this dish are pretty simple; beat together your filling ingredients and fold in the pecans! After that, you just have to pop your pie in the oven and set the timer– easy as pie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pecan pie recipe is a gem because it combines simplicity with deliciousness. The smooth, sweet filling complements the crunchy pecan topping perfectly. It’s an ideal dessert for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests. Plus, it brings a nostalgic touch to any meal with its classic flavors.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9 or 10-inch pie pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust, store-bought or homemade
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups whole pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
2. Place your rolled-out pie crust in a 9 or 10-inch pie pan. Fold the outer edges under and crimp accordingly, trimming off any excess crust.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugars, salt, and cinnamon. Then, beat in the corn syrup, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the pecans into the pie crust and spread them into an even layer.
5. Pour the corn syrup mixture over the nuts, gently pressing the nuts into the liquid so none are poking out of the top layer.
6. Cover the pie carefully with aluminum foil and place the pie dish in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue cooking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the center is just set but not too jiggly.
8. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool before serving.
9. Slice into wedges and serve plain or with vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Make sure to whisk your filling ingredients until they are completely smooth to ensure a velvety texture. Also, keeping an eye on the baking time will prevent the pie from becoming too jiggly or overly firm.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of bourbon to the filling for a deeper flavor. You can also try using chopped pecans for a different texture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This pecan pie is a treat, so enjoy it in moderation. While it’s rich in flavor, it also provides a good source of protein from the pecans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?

Yes, you can substitute dark corn syrup for a richer flavor, but it will slightly alter the taste and color.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The pie is done when the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pie can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Tried And True Pecan Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. We invite you to try this recipe and experience the delightful balance of flavors and textures. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you might add. Happy baking!