Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in the sweetest traditions, and nothing screams “holiday dessert” quite like a perfectly baked pecan pie. This classic Thanksgiving dessert is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also brings a delightful blend of sweetness and nuttiness that makes every bite memorable. What I absolutely adore about this pecan pie recipe is how simple it is to whip up, yet it feels truly special. With a buttery crust and a filling that’s gooey, rich, and packed with crunchy pecans, it’s bound to be the star of your Thanksgiving desserts table. Trust me, once you try this pecan pie, you’ll want to make it a holiday staple for years to come!
Ingredients List
- 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
- 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark, depending on your preference)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (make sure it’s nice and fluffy)
- 4 large eggs (at room temperature for better mixing)
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter (let it cool a bit after melting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that lovely depth of flavor)
- 2 cups pecan halves (feel free to chop them if you like smaller bites)
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Desserts Pecan
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get this pecan pie party started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because you want that oven nice and hot when it’s time to bake your pie. While it’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and well combined, and you can practically smell that sweetness—yum!
Next, gently fold in the pecan halves. I like to take a moment here to appreciate how beautiful they look, all shiny and toasty! Now, take your pie crust and place it in a pie dish if you haven’t already. Pour that luscious pecan filling right into the crust, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Then, it’s time to slide your pie into the oven!
Bake it for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and slightly puffed up in the center. Don’t worry if it jiggles a little; it will firm up as it cools. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool completely before serving. Trust me, the aroma will drive everyone wild while they wait! Serve it up with a dollop of whipped cream, and enjoy every decadent bite of this Thanksgiving dessert delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
- Rich, sweet flavor with a delightful crunch from the pecans.
- Classic appeal that’s sure to impress family and friends at your Thanksgiving table.
- Versatile enough to serve as a standalone dessert or alongside other treats.
- Gooey filling that contrasts beautifully with a flaky pie crust.
- Great make-ahead option—just bake and chill before serving!
- Leftovers (if there are any!) taste amazing even days later.
- Perfectly pairs with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Tips for Success
Making the perfect pecan pie is all about the little details, and I’m here to share my best tips to ensure yours turns out absolutely delicious! First off, when it comes to the pie crust, I always recommend using a chilled crust. If you’re going homemade, let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps keep it flaky and prevents shrinkage while baking! If you’re using store-bought, just make sure it’s thawed properly.
Now, let’s talk about baking times. Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. The filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out—this is key! If you find the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while the filling finishes cooking. Remember, a little patience goes a long way!
Once your pie is baked and cooled, I highly suggest letting it sit for at least a couple of hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set up beautifully, making it easier to cut neat slices. And don’t skip the whipped cream or ice cream on the side—trust me, it’s the cherry on top of this Thanksgiving dessert! Enjoy your baking adventure, and I can’t wait for you to taste the joy of this pecan pie!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s dive into the numbers! This pecan pie is not just a treat for the taste buds, but it also has some nutritional stats worth noting. Keep in mind, these values are estimated and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. Here’s what you can expect per slice:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
So, while this pie is certainly a delightful indulgence, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying! Feel free to share it with family and friends, and remember, it’s all about balance during the holidays. Enjoy every sweet bite of this pecan pie!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect pecan pie? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you navigate this delicious dessert.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can swap them for walnuts or a mix of nuts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor a bit, but it can still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your pecan pie fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving again for the best taste!
Can I make this pie in advance?
Yes, you can definitely bake your pecan pie a day or two ahead of time! Just let it cool completely before wrapping it up and refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes if you like it cozy.
What if my pie crust is getting too brown?
If you notice your crust browning too quickly while baking, don’t panic! Just cover the edges with some aluminum foil to protect them from burning while the filling finishes cooking. It’s a simple trick that works wonders!
Can I use a pre-made pie crust?
For sure! Using a pre-made pie crust is a great time-saver, and it can still taste fantastic. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking if it requires pre-baking.
How can I make it less sweet?
If you’re looking to cut down on sweetness, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or corn syrup slightly—maybe by 1/4 cup. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance out the flavors. Just remember, it’ll slightly alter the texture, but it’ll still be tasty!
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free pie crust, and you’re good to go. The filling is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this delightful dessert without worry!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover pecan pie is super easy, and it’ll keep those delicious flavors intact! First, make sure the pie has cooled completely after baking. Once it’s cool, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you have a pie saver, that works great too! Pop it in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Just remember, it’s best enjoyed at room temperature, so let it sit out for a bit before serving again.
Now, if you find yourself craving a slice of that gooey goodness after a few days, you might want to reheat it. To do this, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet (this catches any drips) and warm it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot—just enough to take the chill off and make that filling all cozy and inviting again. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream, and you’ll be in dessert heaven all over again!
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Thanksgiving Desserts Pecan: 7 Irresistible Pie Secrets
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious pecan pie perfect for your Thanksgiving dessert table.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Stir in the pecans.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 60 minutes, or until set.
- Cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: thanksgiving desserts pecan
