Classic Southern Pecan Pie Recipe

Introduction

Few desserts embody the charm of Southern baking as perfectly as pecan pie. With its flaky, buttery crust and a luscious, caramel-like filling crowned with crunchy pecans, this pie is both a holiday tradition and a year-round indulgence. Whether served warm with whipped cream or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, pecan pie strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This recipe is simple, foolproof, and ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers looking to bring a taste of the South to their table.

Ingredients

• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 cup light corn syrup

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

Method

1. Prepare the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, neatly crimping the edges. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.

3. Add the pecans

Fold the pecan halves into the mixture, making sure they are evenly coated in the sweet filling.

4. Assemble the pie

Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. For a polished look, arrange some pecan halves neatly on top.

5. Bake

Place the pie on the center rack of the oven and bake for 55–60 minutes, until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the middle. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, shield the edges with aluminum foil.

6. Cool and serve

Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This resting time allows the filling to firm up. Serve plain or elevate it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

This classic Southern pecan pie celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in harmony. The rich, gooey filling paired with the crisp crunch of pecans and a tender crust makes each bite irresistible. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. With minimal effort and timeless flavor, pecan pie remains a dessert worth savoring again and again.