Southern Pecan Pie

Southern Pecan Pie is the quintessential dessert that brings a warm, nutty sweetness to any table. It’s a classic Southern favorite, beloved for its rich filling, flaky crust, and that perfect crunch of pecans on top. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a dinner party, or just craving a slice of comfort, this pie is an unbeatable choice. Made with simple ingredients like corn syrup, brown sugar, and pecans, it’s a recipe that’s easy to master and sure to impress.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Southern Pecan Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition. The filling is luxuriously gooey with a deep caramel flavor, balanced by the buttery, toasted pecans that add a delightful texture. The crust bakes up crisp and golden, providing the perfect base for the luscious filling. This pie is incredibly versatile: it can be dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream or kept simple to let the flavors shine. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, requiring just one bowl and minimal prep time. Once you get the hang of this recipe, it will become your go-to for gatherings and celebrations.

What Goes In

• 1 cup corn syrup – The key to that chewy, sticky texture everyone loves.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness and depth.
• 1/3 cup melted butter – Gives the pie a buttery richness that enhances the flavor.
• 3 large eggs – Helps to set the filling and create that custard-like texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic note to the filling.
• 1 cup pecan halves – The star ingredient, toasted to bring out their natural flavor and crunch.
• 1 pie crust – Homemade or store-bought, choose a flaky crust to complement the sweet filling.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• 9-inch pie dish – For that perfect, classic size pie.
• Mixing bowl – To combine your filling ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk or fork – For beating the eggs and mixing the filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements make all the difference.
• Pastry brush (optional) – To brush melted butter over the crust edges for a golden finish.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pies.

Build Southern Pecan Pie Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust

If you’re using a store-bought crust, let it thaw according to package instructions. For homemade crust, roll it out to fit your 9-inch pie dish, then gently press it in. Crimp the edges for a decorative touch and set it aside while you prep the filling.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Place the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast them for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and slightly browned. This step enhances their flavor and crunch, which is essential for Southern Pecan Pie.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined and smooth. The mixture should be glossy and thick.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Spread the toasted pecans evenly over the bottom of your prepared pie crust. Pour the filling mixture over the pecans, allowing it to settle evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 50–60 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The crust should be golden brown, and the pecans on top toasted.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let your Southern Pecan Pie cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to firm up perfectly. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• In warmer months, serve chilled with fresh berries for a light twist.
• During cooler seasons, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a cozy spice flavor.
• Top with salted caramel sauce or drizzle with honey for added richness.
• Swap in some chopped pecans and dried cranberries for a festive holiday version.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Pie filling too runny: Make sure to beat the eggs well and bake the pie long enough; underbaking causes a loose filling.
• Burned pecans: Toast pecans on medium heat and watch closely to avoid burning, which can make the pie bitter.
• Soggy crust: Pre-baking the crust for 5-7 minutes can help prevent sogginess.
• Cracked filling: Overbaking or rapid cooling can crack the filling, so bake just until set and cool gradually.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store your Southern Pecan Pie covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the pie for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, let it come to room temperature or warm slightly in the oven to bring back that freshly baked flavor and texture.

Helpful Q&A

Can I use a different type of sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar is preferred for its molasses content, which adds depth, but you can substitute with white sugar or coconut sugar. Just note the flavor will be slightly different and less rich.

Do I have to use corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps create the classic chewy texture, but you can replace it with maple syrup or honey. The texture might be a bit softer, and the flavor will have a slight variation, but it’s still delicious.

How can I make the pie crust extra flaky?

Use cold butter and minimal handling when making your crust. Chilling the dough before rolling and baking it blind for a few minutes also helps keep it crisp and flaky.

Can I prepare this pie in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the pie a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just bring it to room temperature before serving.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Caramel Pecan Pear Galette – A rustic tart combining pears and pecans with caramel for a stunning fall dessert.
• Maple Pecan Chocolate Chip Blondies – Decadent bars with maple syrup, crunchy pecans, and melty chocolate chips.

Ready to Cook?

Southern Pecan Pie is a timeless dessert that brings a touch of Southern charm to your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a pie that’s buttery, sweet, and nutty, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to deliver consistent, delicious results every time. So preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of Southern hospitality in every bite.

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