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Slice of pecan cream pie topped with whipped cream and crunchy pecans on a white plate.

Pecan cream pie​


  • Author: Emma Hart
  • Total Time: 40 minutes + 4 hours chilling
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

Scale

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

  • 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

  • Toasting Pecans: Always toast pecans for better flavor and texture.

  • Chilling: Ensure the pie chills completely for clean slices.

  • Use a Pie Shield: Protect crust edges during baking with foil or a pie shield.

  • Tempering Eggs: Prevent curdling by slowly mixing in the hot cream before returning to the heat.

  • 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​