Easy Pecan Pie Recipe for Thanksgiving Day
As Thanksgiving draws near, it's time to start thinking about the delicious foods that will be on your table. And what could be better than a classic Easy Pecan Pie Recipe to end your meal? This pie is a Christmas tradition in many homes because it is sweet, nutty, and hard to avoid. Feel like you belong with people who love pecan pie? Make this recipe a family favorite that everyone looks forward to every year.
Why Make Pecan Pie?
Pecan pie is a cherished ritual that captures the essence of fall. Toasted pecan tastes mixed with a silky smooth filling make for a rich and delightful dessert. Each slice has a perfect blend of sweetness and crunch, making it an outstanding finish to your Thanksgiving meal. Plus, this recipe is quite simple to follow, so you can whip it up without stress!
A Little History of Pecan Pie
Before we get started with the recipe, let's go over some pecan pie history. This delicious delicacy is said to have originated in the southern United States during the nineteenth century, with the first known recipe appearing in an 1886 cookbook. Made with simple components such as sugar, eggs, and, of course, pecans, it rapidly became a favorite among families. Pecan pie has French roots, but it has evolved into a uniquely American delicacy that highlights the nut's rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 Pie crust
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
- ½ cup whole pecans (for decoration)
How to Make Easy Pecan Pie for Thanksgiving?
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 356°F (180°C). This is an essential step to ensure your pie bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
If you’re using a homemade pie crust, make sure it’s chilled and ready to go. Lightly flour a 9-inch tart pan and fit the crust into the pan, pressing it gently against the edges. Don’t forget to poke holes in the bottom of the pie crust with a fork. This step helps prevent the crust from puffing up during baking. If you’re short on time, a store-bought crust works just as well!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 eggs, 1 cup brown sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 cup light corn syrup, and ¼ cup melted unsalted butter. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. This filling is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s blended nicely!
Step 4: Add the Pecans
Once your filling is ready, sprinkle the 1½ cups of chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie crust. Then, pour the filling mixture over the pecans. As the pie bakes, the pecans will rise to the surface, creating a beautiful, nutty top layer.
Step 5: Decorate the Top
For an extra touch of elegance, arrange the ½ cup of whole pecans in concentric circles on top of the filling. This not only looks stunning but also adds a crunch that everyone will love.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Cover the pie with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is completely set in the center. The top should be a gorgeous golden brown, making it hard to resist!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. It’s important to let it rest for at least two hours before slicing; this allows the filling to set up properly. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch it disappear from the table!
Zulay's Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Pecan Pie
- For the best flavor, use fresh pecans. Toasting them lightly before adding to the filling can enhance their nutty flavor even more!
- If you like a less sweet pie, you can reduce the brown sugar slightly or use a mix of brown and granulated sugar. You could also try substituting a bit of maple syrup for the corn syrup for a unique twist.
- For all the chocolate lovers out there, consider folding some chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful chocolate-pecan combo.
- Pecan pie can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it’ll be ready to serve on Thanksgiving Day!
Zulay's Final Thought
This Easy Pecan Pie Recipe aims to create memories, not simply a delicious dessert. And Thanksgiving is about the delight of creating and sharing pies with loved ones. So get your ingredients together, follow this simple recipe, and prepare to dazzle your family and friends this Christmas season. Happy baking, and may your Thanksgiving be full of warmth, fun, and lots of pie!
Let Us Know What You Think!
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The Best Recipes!
Looking for more delicious recipes to prepare and share? Check out our other holiday favorites, including creamy pumpkin pie, festive cranberry sauce, and savory stuffing that will make your Thanksgiving table shine!
Know Someone Who Should Read This?
Share this Pecan Pie Recipe with your friends across all social media platforms! Don't forget to tag @ZulayKitchen, #kitchenhappiness, and #PecanPie! Your friends will thank you for introducing them to this delightful dessert that brings everyone together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Pie Recipe
Can I Freeze Pecan Pie?
Absolutely! Pecan pie freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a low oven.
What Should I Serve with Pecan Pie?
While pecan pie is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess balances the richness of the pie perfectly!
How Do I Know When My Pecan Pie is Done?
The pie is done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. It will firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit soft right out of the oven.
