As a devoted home baker, I’ve explored countless pie recipes, but The Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie truly stands out. My journey with this recipe began much like many others – through Ree Drummond’s inviting blog and her engaging Food Network show. When Thanksgiving rolled around and my family requested pecan pie, it felt like destiny. I knew I had to try The Pioneer Woman’s version.
While I’ve baked numerous pies over the years, pecan pie was surprisingly uncharted territory for me, having only made it once before. That first attempt was satisfactory, but this time, I wasn’t aiming for just “good.” I was determined to recreate the magic of Ree Drummond’s pecan pie.
I must admit, I haven’t yet indulged in the whiskey maple cream sauce that Ree recommends pairing with it. However, it’s definitely on my list for the next baking session!
The verdict from my family? This pecan pie was a resounding Thanksgiving dessert success!
The Allure of Pecan Pie: A Southern Classic
Pecan pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a cultural icon, especially in the American South. This sweet, nutty delight boasts a rich history and delightful regional variations across the United States. As a food blogger passionate about both culinary history and accessible recipes, I was eager to delve deeper into the world of pecan pie and understand what makes it such a beloved staple.
Pecans: A Nutty American Heritage
Let’s start with the star ingredient – the pecan. Interestingly, the pecan holds the distinction of being the only major tree nut indigenous to North America. Long before European settlers arrived, Native American tribes like the Algonquins and Choctaws savored pecans, incorporating them into various dishes, including a simple form of nut pie.
The pecan pie we recognize today first appeared in written recipes in the late 19th century. Surprisingly, its origin wasn’t the pecan-rich South, but rather Illinois. From there, the recipe journeyed southward to Texas and the Deep South, where it truly flourished and became a culinary emblem.
Exploring Regional Pecan Pie Variations
One of the most 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.
-
Southern Pecan Pie: This is the quintessential pecan pie – rich, gooey, and utterly irresistible. It features a generous filling of pecans, eggs, sugar, and corn syrup, all cradled in a flaky pie crust. Often, it’s adorned with pecan halves for an added textural crunch. This version is often considered the benchmark for all other pecan pies.
-
Texas Pecan Pie: Texans bring a twist to the classic by adding chocolate chips, creating the renowned Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie. This variation offers a harmonious blend of nutty pecans and decadent chocolate. For those who appreciate a sweet and savory combination, this pie is a definite winner.
-
Derby Pie from Kentucky: While not strictly a pecan pie, Derby Pie deserves a mention as a close relative. It incorporates pecans, chocolate chips, and a touch of Kentucky bourbon. It’s a popular dessert, particularly around the time of the Kentucky Derby.
-
Mississippi Mud Pie: This variation elevates pecan pie to another level of indulgence. It’s intensely chocolatey, often featuring a layer of marshmallows. While less traditional, it’s a delightful option for those who adore both pecans and chocolate in a decadent dessert.
Pecan pie, with its buttery, nutty filling and crisp crust, is more than just a sweet treat. It’s a slice of American culinary history, reflecting cultural fusion and regional pride, with delicious variations across the nation.
Whether you gravitate towards the classic Southern pecan pie, much like The Pioneer Woman’s recipe, or are intrigued by the Texas chocolate version, there’s a pecan pie to suit every palate. So, grab a fork, savor a slice, and enjoy a taste of tradition.
And remember, pecan pie is best enjoyed shared with loved ones, accompanied by good company and perhaps a story or two about its fascinating past.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Additional Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
My take on The Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie recipe is, without a doubt, the best pecan pie I’ve ever created.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (store-bought, refrigerated)
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup salted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 oz pecans, chopped
- 4 oz pecan halves, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate and crimp the edges as desired.
- Distribute the chopped pecans evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie crust. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the melted butter and vanilla extract into the egg mixture, mixing until smooth.
- Carefully pour the liquid mixture over the pecans in the pie crust. Arrange the pecan halves on top in a decorative pattern if desired.
- 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 crust edges begin to brown too quickly, protect them by covering with foil or pie shields.
- Remove from the oven and let the pecan pie cool completely on a wire rack for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the filling to fully set.
Recipe Notes
Allow the pie to cool completely to room temperature before slicing and serving. This pie is adapted from The Pioneer Woman’s classic pecan pie recipe.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Nutrition Information:
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
