Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: pecan cream pie! This pie is like a warm hug on a plate, with its rich, creamy filling and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness that just melts in your mouth. I love making this pie for family gatherings and special occasions because it always brings everyone together around the table. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up! The combination of the smooth filling with that buttery crust is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try this pecan cream pie, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last slice is gone!
Ingredients List
- 1 pre-made pie crust (feel free to use your favorite type, whether it’s store-bought or homemade!)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (toasted pecans add even more flavor, but it’s up to you!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (this gives the pie its rich, velvety texture)
- 1 cup sugar (this balances the nuttiness of the pecans)
- 3 large eggs (these help set the filling and give it that creamy consistency)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (because vanilla makes everything better!)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (to enhance all those delicious flavors)
How to Prepare Pecan Cream Pie
Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get started! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven ensures your pie bakes evenly. While that’s heating up, grab a mixing bowl and beat together the three large eggs and one cup of sugar until it’s all nice and fluffy. You want to see that lovely pale color develop; it means you’re on the right track!
Next, slowly pour in your one cup of heavy cream, along with that delightful teaspoon of vanilla extract and the 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix it all together gently—this is where the magic happens! Now, it’s time to stir in the chopped pecans. I usually go for a cup, but if you love pecans as much as I do, feel free to add a bit more!
Once everything is well combined, grab your pre-made pie crust and pour that luscious filling right in. It’s okay if it looks a bit full; it’ll bake down beautifully. Now pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. After it’s baked, take it out and let it cool completely before slicing. Trust me, letting it cool is key to letting those flavors develop! Serve it up and enjoy every creamy, nutty bite!
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Cream Pie
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- The rich, creamy texture paired with crunchy pecans creates a dessert experience that’s truly unforgettable.
- This pie is great for any occasion—be it holiday feasts, dinner parties, or just a cozy night in.
- It can be made ahead of time, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your gatherings.
- The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating dessert!
- Customizable to your taste—add chocolate chips or swap pecans for your favorite nuts!
Tips for Success with Pecan Cream Pie
Alright, let’s make sure your pecan cream pie turns out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t skip the preheating step—it’s crucial for an even bake! When you’re mixing the filling, make sure to beat the eggs and sugar until they’re light and fluffy; this adds a bit of air that helps the pie set nicely. If you want that beautiful golden top, consider covering the edges of the crust with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
Oh, and here’s a little secret: if you prefer a firmer filling, bake it a tad longer until it’s set but still has a slight jiggle in the center. Just remember, it will continue to firm up as it cools. Finally, let it cool completely before slicing—this is key for clean, beautiful slices! Enjoy the journey, and I can’t wait for you to savor every bite!
Variations of Pecan Cream Pie
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with this pecan cream pie! For a chocolatey twist, try folding in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving. If you love a bit of spice, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. You could also experiment with different nuts—walnuts or hazelnuts can bring a whole new dimension to the pie. And for a fruity touch, consider adding some chopped dried cherries or cranberries for a delightful contrast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your pecan cream pie, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy those delicious slices a little longer! If you’re like me and love a good pie moment, you might want to savor it fresh.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend slicing a piece and warming it gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This way, the filling remains creamy and delightful without losing its texture. Just be sure not to overheat it; we want to keep that lovely flavor intact! Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Just a heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a guideline. For one delicious slice of pecan cream pie, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Enjoy this delightful treat, knowing it’s a rich and satisfying dessert that brings a smile to your face!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of crust for the pecan cream pie?
Absolutely! While I love a classic pre-made pie crust, you can experiment with a graham cracker crust or even a nut-based crust for a gluten-free option. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold that delicious filling!
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the texture might be a bit lighter. If you want that rich creaminess, I highly recommend sticking with heavy cream if you can!
How do I know when my pecan cream pie is done baking?
The secret is all in the jiggle! When you gently shake the pie, the center should be set but still have a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a bit soft when it comes out of the oven.
Can I make this pecan cream pie in advance?
Yes! This pie is perfect for making a day ahead of your event. Just let it cool completely before covering it and storing it in the fridge. It’ll be just as delicious the next day, if not better!
What toppings pair well with pecan cream pie?
Oh, the options are endless! A dollop of whipped cream is a classic choice, but you can also try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Fresh berries can add a beautiful contrast too!
Pecan Cream Pie: 7 Irresistible Ways to Savor This Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy dessert made with pecans and a smooth filling.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together.
- Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour the filling into the pie crust.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pecan cream pie, dessert, pie, pecans
