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Ultimate Pecan Pie Recipe: Easy Southern Classic with Perfect Results

This Ultimate Pecan Pie Recipe delivers the perfect combination of gooey, nutty, and rich flavors with a crisp, flaky crust. A true Southern classic made simple, this recipe guarantees bakery-quality results using pantry staples and straightforward techniques. Ideal for Thanksgiving, holidays, or any celebration where comfort dessert reigns supreme.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Holiday, Southern
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Foundation:
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
  • 1½ cups pecans halved or chopped
For the Luxurious Filling:
  • 1 cup corn syrup
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
Smart Substitutions:
  • Replace corn syrup with maple syrup for deeper flavor
  • Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for natural sweetness
  • Use pastry flour for an extra tender crust

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Fit unbaked crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp edges. Chill for 10 minutes to prevent shrinkage.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth and glossy. Let butter cool slightly before adding.
  3. Assemble: Arrange pecans evenly in crust. Pour filling over top, allowing it to seep through the nuts.
  4. Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes until edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Cover crust edges with foil after 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  5. Cool Completely: Let cool for at least 2 hours before slicing to ensure clean, firm pieces.

Notes

Allow pie to cool completely for clean slices. Cover edges with foil to prevent over-browning. Store at room temperature up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 1 week.