The Ultimate Southern Pecan Pie Recipe: A Slice of Heaven
The aroma of warm pecan pie, its sweet scent mingling with the rich fragrance of butter and brown sugar, is a quintessential Southern experience. This isn't just any pecan pie recipe; this is the recipe, perfected over generations to deliver that melt-in-your-mouth goodness that'll have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Get ready to impress your friends and family with this classic Southern dessert.
Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor
This recipe focuses on quality ingredients, ensuring a truly exceptional pecan pie. Gather these essentials:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups pecan halves
Instructions: From Crust to Crumbly Delight
Follow these simple steps to create your masterpiece:
Step 1: Making the Crust
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Water: Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix!
- Chill: Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll and Bake: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. You can pre-bake the crust for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) if desired, this helps prevent a soggy bottom.
Step 2: Crafting the Pecan Perfection
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add Pecans: Stir in the pecan halves.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the pecan filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not clean.
- Cool: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for Pecan Pie Success
- Use good quality pecans: The flavor of your pecans will greatly impact the overall taste of your pie.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry pie. Start checking for doneness around 50 minutes.
- Let it cool completely: This step is crucial for the filling to set properly and prevent a messy pie.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream: This classic pairing elevates the pie to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Keywords: Southern Pecan Pie Recipe, Pecan Pie Recipe, Easy Pecan Pie, Best Pecan Pie Recipe, Homemade Pecan Pie, Classic Pecan Pie, Southern Dessert Recipes
This ultimate Southern pecan pie recipe guarantees a delightful experience. Share your culinary creations and tag us – we'd love to see your delicious results! Remember to adjust baking time depending on your oven. Enjoy!