Pecan Pie Recipe – Sweet, Buttery Southern Classic

There’s something truly special about a homemade pecan pie—a dessert that blends rich, buttery filling with the crunch of toasted pecans, all nestled in a flaky golden crust. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, Sunday dinner, or just craving something cozy and nostalgic, this pie delivers on every level. Beloved across the South and now trending nationwide for its sweet simplicity, pecan pie has earned its spot as a must-have dessert for any occasion.

pecan pie

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Recipe

  • Easy to Make: No fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients—just pantry staples and a few simple steps.
  • Rich and Buttery Flavor: The filling is indulgent and deeply satisfying, with hints of caramel and toasted nuts.
  • Perfect Texture: A gooey center, crispy top, and flaky crust make every bite a treat.
  • Great for Holidays: It’s a staple for Thanksgiving and Christmas but is easy enough to make year-round.
  • Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness, use a homemade or store-bought crust, or add chocolate chips or bourbon.

Ingredients Needed for Perfect Pecan Pie

Pie Crust – The buttery base that holds everything together. You can use homemade or store-bought.

Pecans – The star of the show! Toasted pecan halves add crunch, flavor, and beautiful presentation.

Corn Syrup – Provides the classic sticky-sweet texture that binds the filling together.

Brown Sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness and enhances the caramelized flavor.

Eggs – Give structure and firmness to the filling when baked.

Butter – Adds richness and deepens the flavor of the pie filling.

Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the sweetness with warm, aromatic notes.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pecan Pie

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the crust: Roll out your pie dough and place it into a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges and set aside.
  3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Add the pecans: Stir pecans into the mixture or arrange them neatly on top after pouring the filling into the crust.
  5. Pour and bake: Carefully pour the filling into the pie crust. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
  6. Cool completely: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours so the filling sets before slicing.

Expert Tip: If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Toasting the pecans before adding enhances their flavor.
  • Add chocolate chips or bourbon to the filling for a richer, deeper flavor.
  • Use maple syrup in place of corn syrup for a natural twist.
  • Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Mini pecan pies: Bake in muffin tins for individual portions—perfect for parties!

How to Store & Reheat

  • Storage: Cover the cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Reheat: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or place the whole pie in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
pecan pie

Similar Recipes You’ll Love

If you love this pecan pie, you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting and easy desserts:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Make it 1–2 days in advance and store it at room temperature or in the fridge.

How do I know when pecan pie is done baking?

The center should be set but slightly jiggly—like gelatin. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Can I freeze pecan pie?

Absolutely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Why did my pecan pie filling turn out runny?

It likely needed more bake time, or the filling wasn’t mixed thoroughly enough. Make sure to bake until the center is mostly set.


Pecan pie is the kind of dessert that turns a meal into a celebration. With its irresistible blend of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors, it’s no wonder this Southern classic has become a favorite across the country. Whether you’re making it for the holidays or just because, this recipe is a foolproof way to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment or tag us with your delicious results!

pecan pie

Pecan Pie Recipe – Sweet, Buttery Southern Classic

This classic pecan pie recipe delivers a gooey, buttery filling loaded with toasted pecans in a flaky crust. It’s easy, rich, and perfect for holidays or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 8 slices
Calories 510 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
  • 1 cup corn syrup
  • 1 cup light or dark brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt.
  • Stir in pecans, or arrange them neatly on top of the filled crust.
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
  • Bake for 50–60 minutes, until the center is mostly set but slightly jiggly.
  • Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

Cover crust edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
Toast the pecans lightly for added depth of flavor.
Let the pie rest for at least 2 hours to firm up before slicing.
Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Keyword classic pie, easy pie recipe, holiday pie, pecan pie, Southern dessert