Pioneer Pecan Pie is a rich, indulgent dessert that embodies the warmth and nostalgia of traditional Southern baking. Unlike conventional pecan pies that rely on corn syrup for sweetness, this recipe uses a blend of brown sugar and white sugar to create a deep caramelized flavor. The buttery, flaky crust cradles a luscious filling of toasted pecans, cinnamon, and vanilla, resulting in a perfectly balanced pie with a crisp top and gooey center. Whether served at holiday gatherings or enjoyed as a comforting treat, this pecan pie is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Pie Crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Brown Sugar – 1 ½ cups
- White Sugar – ½ cup
- Unsalted Butter – ¾ cup (melted and browned)
- Large Eggs – 3
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 ½ tablespoons
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Cinnamon – ½ teaspoon
- Heavy Cream – 1 ½ tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons
- Pecans – 2 cups (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust into a 12 to 13-inch circle, ensuring it fits your pie dish or tart pan.
- Gently press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan, trimming any excess.
- If desired, cut out decorative shapes from extra dough to embellish the crust later.
- Place the pie dish in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they become foamy and fluffy.
- Add the melted browned butter and mix until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the brown sugar and white sugar, beating until the sugar granules dissolve.
- Sprinkle in the flour, cinnamon, and salt, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Finally, fold in the pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated in the mixture.
- Assemble the Pie
- Remove the chilled pie crust from the refrigerator.
- Pour the pecan filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- If you prepared decorative dough cutouts, arrange them on top of the pie.
- Garnish with additional pecans for a beautiful presentation.
- Bake the Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes.
- The center should be just set and no longer jiggly when gently shaken.
- If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and Serve
- Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Enjoy the rich, nutty flavors and caramelized sweetness of this Pioneer Pecan Pie!
This recipe delivers a perfectly balanced pecan pie with a crisp top and gooey center, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Would you like suggestions for variations, such as adding chocolate or bourbon for extra depth? 😊