This Brown Sugar Pecan Pie is a sweet and nutty treat that will make your taste buds dance! With a rich filling made of brown sugar and loads of crunchy pecans, it’s pure comfort in a slice.
Honestly, who can resist that yummy combination? When I bake this pie, the whole house smells amazing! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—perfect for a cozy afternoon.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: An unbaked 9-inch pie crust is essential. You can use homemade or store-bought crust. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free pie crust for similar results. You could also use a graham cracker crust for a different texture.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds sweetness and depth. If you run out, use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor. Just remember, it may alter the pie’s overall taste slightly.
Corn Syrup: Light corn syrup gives the pie its gooey sweetness. If you don’t have it, maple syrup can work as a substitute, but it will change the flavor, giving it a nice hint of maple.
Pecans: You’ll need pecan halves for that classic crunch. If you’re out, walnuts can be a substitute, but they will offer a different taste. Toasting the nuts before adding can enhance their flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Pie Filling Sets Properly?
Getting the filling just right is crucial for a perfect pecan pie. Follow these tips to ensure it sets properly without overcooking.
- Make sure to whisk the filling until smooth. This helps incorporate air and prevents lumps.
- When baking, keep an eye on the pie during the last 10 minutes. If it starts to brown too much, cover the edges with foil.
- The filling should be somewhat jiggly when you remove it from the oven. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
Cooling is key. Let the pie cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling firm up to the perfect consistency!
How to Make Brown Sugar Pecan Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Brown Sugar Pecan Pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 55 to 60 minutes to bake. Be sure to let the pie cool completely before slicing, which might take an additional hour. So, overall, set aside about 2 hours from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, place your unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate. If you like, you can crimp the edges to give it a nice decorative touch. This crust will hold all that delicious filling!
2. Combine the Sugars and Syrup:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and light corn syrup until everything is well combined. This mixture is sweet and rich, just perfect for our pie!
3. Add the Eggs and Blend:
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next. This helps achieve a smooth filling, so don’t rush this step!
4. Mix in the Remaining Ingredients:
Stir in the melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Keep mixing until the mixture is nice and smooth. This is where the flavor starts coming together, and it smells wonderful!
5. Layer the Pecans:
Evenly arrange the pecan halves on the bottom of the pie crust. This will give a lovely presentation when you slice the pie. Once done, pour the sweet filling mixture over the pecans, making sure they are well coated.
6. Bake the Pie:
Carefully place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 55 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes! You want the filling to be set and slightly puffed, with the crust turning golden brown. It should be slightly jiggly in the center; that’s a good sign!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling time helps the filling set properly. When it’s ready, slice it up and, if you’d like, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat!
Enjoy this classic, sweet Brown Sugar Pecan Pie with family and friends!
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust saves you time and makes this recipe even easier. Just make sure it’s 9 inches and unbaked, ready for your filling!
How Do I Keep My Pie Crust from Getting Soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, try blind baking the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This means baking it empty until it’s slightly set, which can help maintain crispiness!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bake the pie a day in advance. Just cool it completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature or warm it slightly in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm individual slices in the microwave or oven. Enjoy!