Pecan Cream Pie Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Follow Dessert
If you’re a fan of rich and creamy desserts, then you’re sure to love pecan cream pie. This classic dessert combines the nutty flavor of pecans with a smooth and silky cream filling, all nestled inside a flaky pie crust. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just because, this dessert is sure to impress.
While there are many variations of pecan cream pie, most recipes call for a few key ingredients. You’ll need a pie crust, heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, brown sugar, maple syrup, pecans, and salt. The crust can be store-bought or homemade, and blind-baked before filling to ensure it stays crisp. The filling is made by blending together cream cheese, whipping cream, brown sugar, and maple syrup until smooth, then folding in chopped pecans. Once the pie is baked and cooled, it’s ready to serve.
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both decadent and delicious, pecan cream pie is the perfect choice. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results. So why not give it a try and indulge in a slice of this creamy, nutty dessert?
History of Pecan Cream Pie
If you’re a fan of pecan pie but also love the creaminess of cheesecake, then you’ll love pecan cream pie. This dessert is a fusion of creamy filling and crunchy pecans that will transport you to the cozy ambiance of a Southern kitchen.
Pecan cream pie is a variation of pecan pie, which has been a staple of Southern cuisine for over a century. The earliest printed pecan recipes began popping up in Texas cookbooks in the 1870s and 1880s. However, the first recipe that most closely resembles what we know today as pecan pie was published in a church cookbook in 1898.
The recipe for pecan cream pie is relatively new compared to traditional pecan pie. It is believed to have originated in the 1970s or 1980s, and it quickly became a popular dessert in the Southern United States.
Unlike traditional pecan pie, which is made with a filling of eggs, sugar, corn syrup, and pecans, pecan cream pie includes cream cheese and heavy cream. The cream cheese gives the filling a rich and tangy flavor, while the heavy cream makes it smooth and creamy.
Overall, pecan cream pie is a delicious and unique dessert that combines the best of both worlds. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
Essential Ingredients
When it comes to making a delicious pecan cream pie, there are three essential ingredients that you’ll need: pecans, cream filling, and pie crust. Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your pie.
Pecans
Pecans are the star of the show when it comes to pecan cream pie. They provide a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling. When selecting pecans for your pie, look for ones that are fresh and fragrant, with a rich, golden brown color. You can use either whole or chopped pecans, depending on your preference.
Cream Filling
The cream filling is what gives pecan cream pie its signature creamy texture and rich, indulgent flavor. To make the filling, you’ll need a combination of cream cheese, whipped cream, and sweeteners like brown sugar or maple syrup. The cream cheese provides a tangy, slightly savory flavor that balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients, while the whipped cream adds lightness and fluffiness to the filling.
Pie Crust
The pie crust is the foundation of your pecan cream pie, and it’s important to get it right. You can use either a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch. For a classic pecan cream pie, a traditional flaky pie crust made with all-purpose flour, butter, and a pinch of salt is the way to go. However, you can also experiment with different crusts, such as a graham cracker crust or a chocolate cookie crust, to add a unique twist to your pie.
Overall, these three essential ingredients are what make pecan cream pie so delicious and irresistible. With the right combination of pecans, cream filling, and pie crust, you’ll be able to create a pie that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Required Kitchen Tools
To make a delicious pecan cream pie, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. Here are the must-have items that you will need to get started:
1. Pie Dish
First and foremost, you will need a pie dish to bake your pecan cream pie. A 9-inch pie dish is the standard size for most recipes, but be sure to check your recipe to confirm the size you need.
2. Mixing Bowls
You will need mixing bowls to prepare and mix the ingredients for your pecan cream pie. It’s best to have a variety of sizes to accommodate different ingredients and mixing needs.
3. Whisk
A whisk is an essential tool for mixing and blending ingredients. You will need a whisk to combine the filling ingredients for your pecan cream pie.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are crucial when baking, so you will need measuring cups and spoons to measure out your ingredients. It’s best to have both dry and liquid measuring cups, as well as a set of measuring spoons.
5. Rolling Pin
If you are making your own pie crust, you will need a rolling pin to roll out the dough. A rolling pin will also come in handy if you need to crush or chop nuts or other ingredients.
6. Oven Mitts
Finally, you will need oven mitts to handle the hot pie dish when removing it from the oven. Be sure to use oven mitts that are heat-resistant and fit well to avoid any accidents.
With these essential kitchen tools, you will be well on your way to making a delicious pecan cream pie.
Preparation Overview
Making a perfect pecan cream pie requires preparation and attention to detail. Here is an overview of the steps you need to follow to make a delicious pecan cream pie:
- Prepare the crust: You can either use a pre-made crust or make your own. Blind bake the crust according to the package directions and let it cool completely while you make the filling.
- Make the filling: To make the filling, you will need whipping cream, powdered sugar, cream cheese, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pecans. Beat the whipping cream and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Add the whipped cream and mix until smooth. Finally, fold in the pecans.
- Bake the pie: Pour the filling into the cooled crust and spread it out evenly. Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the pie cool completely before serving. You can serve it with whipped cream on top or enjoy it as it is.
By following these simple steps, you can make a delicious pecan cream pie that everyone will love.
Crust Preparation
To make a delicious pecan cream pie, you must first prepare the crust. Here are the steps to follow:
Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar.
- Add 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (cut into small pieces) to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to mix the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 3-4 tablespoons of ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Shaping the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges, leaving about 1/2 inch overhang.
- Fold the overhang under and crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers.
Pre-Baking Steps
- Line the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes.
- Remove the weights and parchment paper/foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.
By following these steps, you’ll have a perfectly baked crust for your pecan cream pie.
Filling Preparation
To make the perfect pecan cream pie, you need to prepare the filling correctly. This section will guide you through the process step by step.
Mixing the Filling
To start, you will need to mix the filling ingredients together. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until they form stiff peaks. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, maple syrup, and brown sugar until they are smooth. Then, gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Adding Pecans
Next, add the pecans to the filling. You can either mix them in or place them at the bottom of the pie crust before adding the filling. Adding pecans to the filling gives the pie a nice crunchy texture.
Filling the Pie
Now it’s time to fill the pie. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula. You can garnish the top with additional pecans if desired. Place the pie in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
That’s it! Follow these steps and you’ll have a delicious pecan cream pie that everyone will love.
Baking the Pie
Now that you have prepared the filling and the crust, it’s time to bake the pie. Here are the steps to follow:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before serving.
It’s important to note that the baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your crust. To ensure that your pie is fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the pie is done.
Also, keep in mind that pecan cream pie is a delicate dessert, and it’s important to handle it with care. Letting it cool completely before serving will help it set and make it easier to slice.
Now that you know how to bake a pecan cream pie, it’s time to enjoy the delicious results of your hard work!
Cooling and Serving
Cooling Down
After baking your pecan cream pie, it is important to let it cool down completely before serving. This will ensure that the filling sets properly and the flavors have time to meld together. The pie should be cooled down to room temperature before slicing into it.
Slicing
When it comes to slicing your pecan cream pie, it is best to use a sharp knife. This will help you to cut through the crust and filling without squishing the pie. You can also dip your knife in hot water before slicing to help it glide through the pie more easily.
To get the perfect slice, cut the pie into wedges and use a pie server to transfer each slice onto a plate. If you are having trouble getting clean slices, try chilling the pie in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan cream pie is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also drizzle some caramel sauce or chocolate sauce over the top for an extra decadent touch.
If you want to add some crunch to your pie, sprinkle some chopped pecans over the top before serving. You can also dust the pie with powdered sugar for a pretty finishing touch.
Remember to store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 3 days.
Storage and Preservation
Once you have made your pecan cream pie, you may be wondering how to store it properly to ensure it stays fresh for as long as possible. Here are some tips for storing and preserving your pecan cream pie:
- Refrigeration: Pecan cream pie should be stored in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you are not planning to eat your pecan cream pie within a few days, you can freeze it for later. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Thawing: When you are ready to eat your frozen pecan cream pie, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Do not try to thaw it at room temperature or in the microwave, as this can cause the filling to become runny.
- Serving: To serve your pecan cream pie, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before slicing. This will allow the filling to soften slightly and make it easier to cut.
Remember, pecan cream pie is best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it within a few days of making it. By following these storage and preservation tips, you can ensure that your pecan cream pie stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make a graham cracker crust for pecan cream cheese pie?
Making a graham cracker crust is easy. First, crush graham crackers in a food processor or by placing them in a plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter and sugar until well combined. Then, press the mixture into a pie dish and bake for about 10 minutes. Let it cool before adding the filling.
What are the ingredients for a classic pecan pie filling?
A classic pecan pie filling typically includes eggs, corn syrup, sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and pecans. Some variations may include bourbon or other flavorings.
Can you substitute heavy cream for another ingredient in pecan pie recipes?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream for milk or half-and-half in pecan pie recipes. However, it may affect the texture and flavor of the pie.
What are the steps to creating a pecan custard pie?
To make a pecan custard pie, you will need to make a custard filling in addition to the pecan filling. The custard filling typically includes eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix the custard ingredients together and pour them into the pie crust. Then, mix the pecan filling ingredients and pour them on top of the custard. Bake the pie until it is set.
How do you ensure your pecan pie sets properly and doesn’t come out runny?
To ensure your pecan pie sets properly, make sure to use the correct amount of corn syrup and sugar in the filling. Overmixing the filling can also cause it to become runny, so mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Additionally, don’t overbake the pie, as this can also cause the filling to become runny.
What differentiates a derby pie from a traditional pecan pie?
Derby pie is a variation of pecan pie that includes chocolate and sometimes bourbon. It was created at the Melrose Inn in Kentucky and is a popular dessert in the region. Traditional pecan pie does not include chocolate or bourbon.