Description
Pecan Cream Pie is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, blending the toasty, nutty crunch of pecans with a luxuriously smooth, custard-like cream filling. Set in a buttery pre-baked crust and chilled to perfection, this dessert is rich without being cloying, making it ideal for holidays, gatherings, or anytime you crave a comforting yet refined treat. With a silky texture, crisp crust, and roasted pecan topping, this make-ahead pie offers bakery-level results with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
For the Crust
1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Pie weights or dried beans (for blind baking)
For the Filling
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
Pinch of salt
3 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
1 ¼ cups pecan halves, toasted
Optional Enhancements
2 tablespoons maple syrup (in place of some brown sugar)
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg
Sea salt flakes for garnish
Whipped cream or crème fraîche for serving
Instructions
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Blind-Bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough into a 9-inch pie plate, crimp the edges, and prick the bottom with a fork. Line with parchment paper and add pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove weights and bake for another 5–7 minutes until golden. Cool completely. -
Toast the Pecans
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking the pan halfway. Let cool. This enhances their flavor and crunch. -
Make the Cream Filling
In a saucepan, whisk heavy cream, brown sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and slowly temper with hot mixture. Return to the pan and cook 2–3 minutes more. Remove from heat; stir in butter and vanilla. -
Assemble the Pie
Pour the warm filling into the cooled crust. Arrange toasted pecans on top in a decorative pattern or scatter freely for a rustic look. -
Chill the Pie
Let the pie cool slightly at room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours (overnight preferred) until set. Slice and serve cold, optionally topped with whipped cream or ice cream.
Notes
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Toasting Pecans: Always toast pecans for better flavor and texture.
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Chilling: Ensure the pie chills completely for clean slices.
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Use a Pie Shield: Protect crust edges during baking with foil or a pie shield.
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Tempering Eggs: Prevent curdling by slowly mixing in the hot cream before returning to the heat.
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Additions: Try adding maple syrup, chocolate drizzle, or coconut flakes for unique variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (filling), Baked (crust)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Pecan cream pie