Pecan Pie without Corn Syrup is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. This recipe offers the same rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture that pecan pie lovers crave, but without the use of corn syrup. Instead, we’ll use natural sweeteners like maple syrup and coconut sugar to achieve a deep, caramel-like taste that beautifully complements the toasted pecans. It’s a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also aligns with a more health-conscious approach to indulgence.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this Pecan Pie without Corn Syrup because it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and health. The use of maple syrup and coconut sugar creates a flavor profile that is rich and complex, elevating the pie beyond the traditional version. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients. This recipe fits well into various dietary lifestyles, appealing to those looking for healthier dessert options without sacrificing flavor or tradition.
Tips and Tricks
- Toast Your Pecans: For an extra depth of flavor, toast your pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until fragrant. This enhances their natural nuttiness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality vanilla extract will significantly improve the overall taste of your pie.
- Check Your Sweetener: Different brands of maple syrup can vary in sweetness; taste and adjust the amount as needed.
- Chill the Pie: Allow your pie to cool completely before slicing; this helps the filling set and makes for cleaner slices.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the pie crust in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. The filling can also be mixed ahead of time; simply store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and baking. Once baked, the pie will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep or holiday baking.
Recipe Variations
- Nut Variations: Feel free to mix in walnuts or pecan halves for added texture.
- Chocolate Pecan Pie: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips into the filling before baking for a decadent twist.
- Spiced Pecan Pie: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced flavor during the holidays.
How to Serve
For the best presentation, serve your Pecan Pie slices on a decorative plate with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a rustic touch, serve directly from the pie dish, allowing guests to help themselves.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Pecan Pie without Corn Syrup with a warm cup of coffee or a rich dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream complements the pie beautifully, while a side of fresh whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside spiced apple cider.
How to Store
Store any leftover Pecan Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish (glass or ceramic preferred for even baking)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter or food processor (for making the crust)
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegan: Substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a non-dairy butter.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust made from almond or coconut flour.
- Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture without nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall and winter, consider adding seasonal spices like pumpkin pie spice to your filling for a cozy flavor. In the summer, you could experiment with adding fresh berries to the pie for a refreshing twist, although pecans are typically a fall favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use brown sugar instead of coconut sugar? Yes, brown sugar can be used, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
- How long does pecan pie take to bake? It usually takes about 50 to 60 minutes at 350°F.
- Can I make this pie gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free pie crust.
Pecan Pie without Corn Syrup
Pecan Pie without Corn Syrup is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If using a homemade crust, prepare it according to your preferred recipe and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, coconut sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes or until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 508Total Fat 32gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 85mgSodium 188mgCarbohydrates 54gFiber 3gSugar 38gProtein 6g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Pecan Pie without Corn Syrup is an excellent way to enjoy a beloved dessert while making it a bit healthier. With its rich flavor and easy preparation, this pie is sure to impress your family and friends, becoming a staple for your gatherings. Whether enjoyed at a holiday feast or a cozy dinner, this pie is a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations and make it your own, and always remember to savor each bite!