5 Pecan Pie Recipes Divas Swear By

When it comes to delightful desserts that scream fall and holiday cheer, pecan pie often tops the list. Loved by many for its rich, gooey filling and its crunchy pecan topping, this dessert has secured a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of dessert enthusiasts everywhere. If you've ever wanted to dive into the world of pecan pies beyond the traditional, you're in for a treat. Here, we delve into five pecan pie recipes that have become staples among baking divas, each bringing its own unique twist to this classic dish.

1. Chocolate Pecan Pie Bliss

The allure of chocolate combined with the classic taste of pecan pie creates an irresistible dessert experience. Here’s how to make this indulgent version:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ¹⁄₄ cup unsalted butter
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups pecan halves
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted. Allow this mixture to cool slightly.
3. Whisk together eggs, vanilla, and salt in a separate bowl, then slowly incorporate the sugar mixture, mixing well.
4. Fold in pecans and chocolate chips.
5. Pour the mixture into a pie shell and bake for 50-60 minutes or until the pie is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.

2. Caramel-Pecan Pie Extravaganza

Enhance the decadence of your pecan pie with a caramel twist:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup dark corn syrup
• ¹⁄₃ cup melted butter
• 3 eggs, beaten
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups chopped pecans
• ¹⁄₄ cup caramel sauce

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, blend sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Stir in pecans and half of the caramel sauce.
4. Pour into a pie crust and drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top.
5. Bake for 50-65 minutes or until the filling is set and the caramel is caramelized.

3. Bourbon Pecan Pie Elegance

Infuse your pecan pie with the sophisticated taste of bourbon:

• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ¹⁄₂ cup sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup firmly packed brown sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup melted butter
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons bourbon
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups pecan halves

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and bourbon until smooth.
3. Stir in pecan halves.
4. Pour into a pie shell and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until set.

4. Maple Pecan Pie Delight

Explore the natural sweetness of maple syrup with this aromatic pie:

• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• ³⁄₄ cup light brown sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup melted unsalted butter
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt
• 1 ³⁄₄ cups pecan halves

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
3. Fold in the pecans.
4. Pour into the pie crust and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the pie is set.

5. Coconut Pecan Dream Pie

Combine the tropical flavors of coconut with the richness of pecans:

• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ¹⁄₂ cup sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup shredded coconut
• ¹⁄₄ cup melted butter
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups pecan halves

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix together corn syrup, sugar, shredded coconut, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir in the pecan halves.
4. Pour into a pie shell and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set.

🍰 Note: To avoid soggy bottoms, blind bake your pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.

Each of these recipes offers a unique spin on the classic pecan pie, providing an exciting twist that could become your new holiday favorite. From the chocolate pecan pie bliss for chocolate lovers to the coconut pecan dream pie for a taste of the tropics, there's something here for every palate. These variations not only enhance the flavor profile of the traditional pie but also cater to various dietary preferences or regional tastes. Whether you're looking to impress at a potluck or simply want to indulge in a decadent dessert at home, these five pecan pie recipes are sure to elevate your baking game.

Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?

+

Yes, pecan pie can be made a day ahead. Simply store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, often resulting in an even tastier pie.

What can I substitute for corn syrup in these recipes?

+

You can use honey, maple syrup, or golden syrup as substitutes for corn syrup. Keep in mind that this might change the flavor slightly, but it will still yield a delicious pie.

Can I freeze pecan pie?

+

Yes, you can freeze pecan pie. Cool the pie completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.