Pecan pie is a timeless classic, especially when it comes to holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners. And when you’re searching for a truly exceptional pecan pie, look no further than the Pecan Pie Recipe By Pioneer Woman. Like many home bakers, my first encounter with this recipe was through Ree Drummond’s blog and her charming Food Network show. Intrigued by the rave reviews and Ree’s down-to-earth approach, I decided to bake it for our annual Thanksgiving feast. Let me tell you, it was a game-changer. From that moment on, this Pioneer Woman pecan pie recipe became my go-to for any occasion calling for a sweet, nutty indulgence.
While I’ve experimented with countless pie recipes over the years, including a memorable blueberry peach pie, the Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie stands out. It’s not just good; it’s exceptional. It hits that perfect balance of sweet and nutty, with a gooey yet firm filling that complements the flaky pie crust beautifully. And while I haven’t yet ventured into the whiskey maple cream sauce Ree recommends pairing with it, that’s definitely on my list for the next baking adventure. The verdict from my family? This Ree Drummond pecan pie recipe was a resounding Thanksgiving dessert success!
Unveiling the Magic of Pecan Pie: A Southern Dessert Staple
Pecan pie: the very name conjures images of Southern hospitality and comforting aromas wafting from the kitchen. This iconic dessert is deeply intertwined with the culinary heritage of the American South, boasting a rich history and delightful regional variations across the nation. As a food enthusiast fascinated by both history and simple, heartwarming recipes, I couldn’t resist delving into the story behind this beloved treat and exploring what makes the Pioneer Woman pecan pie recipe so special within this tradition.
The Pecan’s American Roots
Let’s begin by appreciating the star ingredient: the pecan. Remarkably, the pecan is the only major tree nut native to North America. Long before European settlers arrived, Native American tribes like the Algonquins and Choctaws cherished pecans, incorporating them into their diets and even crafting simple nut pies. This indigenous nut laid the foundation for the pecan pie we know and love today.
Interestingly, the first documented pecan pie recipe as we recognize it emerged in the late 19th century. Surprisingly, its origin wasn’t the pecan-rich South, but rather the northern state of Illinois. From there, the recipe journeyed southward to Texas and the Deep South, where it truly flourished and became a regional icon.
Exploring Regional Pecan Pie Variations
One of the captivating aspects of pecan pie is its adaptability and evolution across different regions of the United States. Each area has infused its unique character into this cherished dessert, resulting in a delightful array of variations.
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Classic Southern Pecan Pie: This is the quintessential pecan pie, embodying the rich, gooey, and utterly irresistible flavors we associate with the South. It’s characterized by a generous helping of pecans, eggs, sugar, and corn syrup, all nestled within a flaky, buttery pie crust. Often adorned with pecan halves on top for added crunch and visual appeal, this is the benchmark against which other pecan pie recipes are often measured, and the Pioneer Woman pecan pie recipe beautifully exemplifies this classic style.
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Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie: Texans have added their own delicious twist by incorporating chocolate chips into the mix, giving rise to the celebrated Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie. This variation offers a harmonious blend of the nutty essence of pecans and the decadent sweetness of chocolate. For those who appreciate the marriage of sweet and savory notes, this is an absolute must-try.
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Kentucky Derby Pie: While not strictly a pecan pie, Derby Pie deserves mention as a close and noteworthy relative. This Kentucky specialty features pecans and chocolate chips, but with the addition of a splash of Kentucky bourbon, adding a warm, sophisticated depth of flavor. It’s a particularly popular dessert during the Kentucky Derby, embodying the spirit of the event.
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Mississippi Mud Pie: Taking pecan pie in a decidedly more decadent direction, Mississippi Mud Pie is a rich, chocolatey creation often loaded with marshmallows. While departing from tradition, it’s a mouthwatering alternative for those who adore the combination of pecans and chocolate, offering a truly indulgent experience.
Pecan pie, in its various forms, is far more than just a dessert. It’s a slice of American culinary history, a testament to cultural fusion, and a regional treasure with diverse and delectable expressions across the country. Whether you gravitate towards the classic Southern pecan pie like the Pioneer Woman’s recipe or are tempted by the Texas rendition with chocolate, there’s a pecan pie to captivate every palate. So, grab a fork, savor a slice, and relish the delightful taste of tradition. And remember, the best way to enjoy homemade pecan pie is shared with loved ones, accompanied by good company and stories.
Baking the Best: Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Recipe
My take on the Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie recipe is that it’s, without a doubt, the best pecan pie I’ve ever created. The recipe is straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and delivers consistently outstanding results. Here’s how you can bake this incredible dessert in your own kitchen:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Additional Time: 1 hour (cooling)
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (refrigerated section) – simplifies the process!
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup salted butter, melted
- ¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 ounces chopped pecans
- 4 ounces pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the pre-made pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Nutty Base: Evenly distribute the chopped pecans and pecan halves across the bottom of the pie crust. Set aside.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, salt, melted butter, and pure vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Pour and Bake: Gently pour the egg mixture over the pecans in the prepared pie crust, ensuring even distribution. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the pie is set and only slightly jiggly in the center. If the pie crust edges begin to brown too quickly, protect them by loosely covering with foil.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the pecan pie to cool completely at room temperature before slicing and serving. This cooling time is crucial for the filling to set properly and achieve the perfect texture.
Recipe Notes
- Crust Tip: Using a pre-made pie crust significantly simplifies this recipe, making it perfect for busy bakers. However, feel free to use your favorite homemade pie crust recipe if you prefer.
- Nut Variety: The combination of chopped and halved pecans provides both texture and visual appeal. You can adjust the ratio to your preference, or even use all chopped or all halved pecans.
- Serving Suggestion: While delicious on its own, Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie is elevated with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra indulgent treat, consider trying Ree Drummond’s recommended whiskey maple cream sauce!
- Storage: Store leftover pecan pie covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Adapted from the beloved Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie recipe.
Recommended Products for Perfect Pecan Pie
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[Amazon Affiliate Links to Pie Plates, Measuring Cups, etc. – To be added if needed]
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)
Yield: 8 servings
Serving Size: 1 slice
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 622
Total Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 24g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 337mg
Carbohydrates: 77g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 64g
Protein: 6g
Enjoy every delightful bite of this classic pecan pie recipe by Pioneer Woman! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.
