11 Pecan Pie Recipes That Are Gooey, Buttery, and Totally Foolproof – your ticket to holiday dessert perfection. There’s nothing quite like the first bite of a perfect pecan pie, with its crisp, flaky crust giving way to a rich, caramelized filling studded with toasted nuts. These 11 tried-and-true recipes take the stress out of baking, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve that ideal balance of sweet and nutty every time. From classic Southern versions to creative twists like chocolate bourbon or maple bacon, each recipe delivers that signature pecan pie magic with minimal fuss.
Whether you’re a traditionalist who swears by Karo syrup or an adventurous baker looking to experiment with new flavors, we’ve got options to satisfy every craving. Picture pulling a golden-brown pie from the oven, the filling just set but still gloriously jiggly, the aroma of toasted pecans and brown sugar filling your kitchen. These foolproof methods eliminate common pitfalls like soggy bottoms or over-baked fillings, guaranteeing picture-perfect results that will have guests begging for your secret.
Classic Southern Pecan Pie
Classic Southern Pecan Pie is a timeless dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and nuttiness. This pie features a gooey, buttery filling that oozes comfort with every slice. The rich flavors of caramelized sugar and toasted pecans create a delightful experience, making it an essential treat for gatherings and holidays.
Making this pie is a breeze, even for beginners. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this classic dish in no time. It’s a pie that truly warms the heart and brings smiles to faces. Let’s get to the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the pecan halves, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the mixture.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. You can cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!
Maple Pecan Pie with a Twist
This Maple Pecan Pie adds a delightful twist to the classic dessert, blending the rich flavors of maple syrup with buttery pecans. The gooey filling is perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a nutty crunch, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Best of all, this recipe is simple enough for even novice bakers to pull off!
With a flaky pie crust and a glossy, caramelized top, it’s not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. Here’s how to make your own delicious Maple Pecan Pie:
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Place the pecan halves in the unbaked pie crust, spreading them evenly.
- Pour the maple mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Let cool before serving.
No-Bake Pecan Pie
No-bake pecan pie is the perfect dessert for those who want all the flavor without the fuss of baking. Rich, creamy, and sweet, this pie combines a buttery crust with a gooey filling that’s packed with the delightful flavor of pecans. It’s a fantastic choice for gatherings, allowing you to impress guests with minimal effort.
The taste is a wonderful balance of sweet and nutty, making every bite a treat. Plus, it’s super simple to make—just mix, chill, and serve! You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this delicious dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of a pie dish to form the crust.
- Make the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the chopped pecans until well mixed.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the prepared crust and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
- Serve: Before serving, top with whipped cream and additional pecans if desired. Enjoy this easy, no-bake treat!
Vegan Pecan Pie Delight
This Vegan Pecan Pie is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining a rich, gooey filling with a perfectly crisp crust. Its sweet, nutty flavor will leave everyone wanting more, and it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a healthier dessert option, this pie delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional pecan pie without the eggs or dairy. Everyone will love its buttery texture and sweet glaze, making it a showstopper at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made vegan pie crust
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped and whole
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the vegan pie crust in a pie pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, almond milk, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, reserving a handful for topping.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust and evenly distribute the reserved pecans on top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Let it cool before slicing.
Salted Caramel Pecan Pie
Salted Caramel Pecan Pie is a delightful twist on the classic dessert. With its gooey filling, buttery crust, and the perfect balance of sweet and salty, this pie is sure to impress everyone at your table. Making this pie is simpler than it looks, so don’t be intimidated!
The rich caramel flavor, paired with crunchy pecans, creates a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a regular Sunday, this pie is a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the warm caramel mixture to the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
- Add the pecan halves to the pie crust. Pour the caramel mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let it cool before serving.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake Hybrid
This Pecan Pie Cheesecake Hybrid is a delightful twist on two classic desserts. With a creamy cheesecake layer sitting atop a gooey pecan pie filling, it creates a perfect balance of rich flavors and textures. The buttery crust, complemented by toasted pecans and a drizzle of caramel, makes every bite irresistible.
Making this dessert is simple and rewarding. It combines familiar ingredients with an easy-to-follow process, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this hybrid dessert is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla and eggs, mixing until well combined. Pour this cheesecake mixture over the crust and spread evenly.
- In another bowl, mix the corn syrup, brown sugar, and chopped pecans. Pour this pecan mixture over the cheesecake layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for about an hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, drizzle caramel sauce on top and garnish with additional pecans.
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie
Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with rich chocolate and a hint of bourbon for an indulgent twist. This dessert is gooey, buttery, and brimming with textures, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort for maximum flavor.
The sweet and nutty filling perfectly balances with the chocolate, while the bourbon adds warmth that elevates this pie to a new level of deliciousness. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this pie is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked pie crust in a pie dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and bourbon until smooth.
- Stir in the pecan halves and chocolate chips.
- Pour the filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. Let cool before slicing.
Spiced Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Spiced Pumpkin Pecan Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional pecan pie. This dessert combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with the nutty goodness of pecans, all wrapped up in a buttery crust. The warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy touch, making it perfect for fall gatherings or any occasion when you want a comforting dessert.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to make. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this pie in no time. The gooey filling and crunchy pecans create a lovely contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the pecan halves on top of the filling in a decorative pattern.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing.
- Serve with whipped cream for an extra treat!
Pecan Pie Bars for Easy Serving
Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, packed with rich flavors and a buttery crust. These bars are sweet, nutty, and have a gooey texture that everyone will love. Plus, they’re super simple to make, making them a perfect option for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Unlike traditional pies, pecan pie bars are easier to slice and serve, making them ideal for sharing. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these treats that bring the classic taste of pecan pie to a convenient, handheld form. Get ready to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips, if using.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before slicing into bars. Serve and enjoy!
Gluten-Free Pecan Pie
This gluten-free pecan pie recipe is a delicious twist on a classic favorite! With a rich, gooey filling and a buttery crust, it’s perfect for anyone needing a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors creates a dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
Making this pie is quite simple and doesn’t require any fancy techniques. The crust is made using gluten-free flour, making it accessible for everyone. Just mix, pour, and bake to enjoy a slice of this delightful treat!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. Press into a pie dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the filling into the chilled crust, spreading the pecans evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden. Let cool before slicing.
Mini Pecan Pies
Mini pecan pies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, offering all the gooey sweetness and buttery flavor in a perfectly sized package. These little treats are not only cute but also incredibly easy to make, making them a fantastic option for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Each bite brings a satisfying crunch from the pecans and a rich, syrupy filling that is hard to resist. They’re like a bite-sized hug of flavor! Plus, you can easily customize them with toppings like whipped cream or extra nuts to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the pie crust and use a round cutter to make small circles that fit into a mini muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Place chopped pecans evenly in each mini crust, then pour the filling mixture over the pecans until just full.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are slightly golden.
- Let them cool before serving, and top with whipped cream if desired.
Final Thoughts
A well-made pecan pie is the ultimate comfort dessert – humble enough for weeknight treats yet special enough for holiday centerpieces. As you try these recipes, remember that quality pecans and proper baking times make all the difference between good and extraordinary. Whether you stick with grandma’s classic recipe or try a modern variation, each of these pies promises that irresistible combination of buttery, gooey goodness we all crave. So preheat those ovens and get ready to bake up some sweet memories – one perfect slice at a time!