Simple Pecan Pie Recipe: Easy Holiday Dessert Perfection

Name: Simple Pecan Pie Recipe Easy Holiday Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (150g) toasted pecan halves or pieces; 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar; 1 cup (240ml) light corn syrup; ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted; 3 large eggs, lightly beaten; 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract; 1 (9-inch/23cm) unbaked pie crust

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Craving that rich, sweet, nutty warmth that just — *screams* — holiday comfort? Stick with me, and I’ll show you how truly simple it is to achieve!

Our Simple Pecan Pie Recipe Easy Holiday Dessert delivers exactly that — a truly easy holiday dessert that brings smiles and cozy vibes to any table. Perfect for busy families or anyone who wants a show-stopping treat without the usual holiday stress, it’s a fantastic family-friendly option.

It’s a classic for a reason, and our straightforward method makes it foolproof, even for new bakers. This is a cherished family favorite from my own kitchen, tested over countless festive seasons, ready for your table.

Table of Contents

Key Ingredients and Flavor Foundations

Crafting a delicious Simple Pecan Pie Recipe Easy Holiday Dessert starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, with notes on their role:

Pecans: 1 ½ cups (150g) toasted pecan halves or pieces — these are the absolute star! Toasting them briefly before adding deepens their nutty flavor and adds wonderful crunch.
Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar — provides a rich, molasses-like sweetness that complements the pecans perfectly.
Corn Syrup: 1 cup (240ml) light corn syrup — essential for that classic gooey, smooth pecan pie texture and contributes to the overall sweetness.
Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113g) melted — adds a luxurious richness and helps bind the filling ingredients together seamlessly.
Eggs: 3 large, lightly beaten — vital for structure, ensuring a smooth, custard-like consistency that sets beautifully.
Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract — enhances all the sweet flavors and adds a warm, inviting aroma. For a truly premium taste, don’t skimp on real vanilla!
Pie Crust: 1 (9-inch/23cm) unbaked pie crust — a ready-made crust is a fantastic convenience for this Simple Pecan Pie Recipe, making it an even easier holiday dessert.

For smart swaps, you can use dark corn syrup for a slightly richer, deeper caramel note, or explore other nuts like walnuts if pecans aren’t on hand. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply choose a good quality gluten-free pie crust. For a deeper, more complex flavor, you might explore a hint of coffee extract in the filling.

Always choose fresh, plump pecans for the best results; rancid nuts can spoil the entire pie. Ensuring your ingredients are fresh is key to a truly fantastic Simple Pecan Pie Recipe Easy Holiday Dessert.

Cooking Method Made Simple

This Simple Pecan Pie Recipe truly lives up to its name, with a straightforward cooking method that guarantees success. Let’s get baking this easy holiday dessert!

Prepare Your Oven and Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a homemade crust or want to prevent a soggy bottom, lightly blind bake your pie crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, lightly beaten eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. No special equipment is needed here, just a good whisk!
Assemble the Pie: Scatter the toasted pecan halves evenly into the bottom of your unbaked pie crust. Carefully pour the prepared filling over the pecans, making sure they are mostly submerged.
B Bake to Perfection: Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips) and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden brown and the center is mostly set but still has a slight, gentle wobble when lightly shaken. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can gently tent the edges with aluminum foil.
Cool Completely: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to fully set, making for neat, beautiful slices.

For quick variations, if you’re watching sugar intake, a sugar-free erythritol or stevia blend can be substituted for the brown sugar (though texture may vary slightly). For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter. You can also make adorable mini pecan pies by using a muffin tin and small pie crust cutouts, reducing the baking time to about 25-30 minutes for a delightful Simple Pecan Pie Recipe Easy Holiday Dessert that is also a fantastic family-friendly option.

Common troubleshooting: If your pie is too dark, tent it with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. If the filling isn’t setting, your oven might be running cool, so bake it a bit longer, checking every 5-10 minutes until set. Blind baking the crust before adding the filling is my secret weapon against a soggy bottom — a little extra step that makes a big difference.

Ideal Serving Moments and Pairings

This Simple Pecan Pie Recipe is a true star, perfect for so many occasions beyond just the big holidays. My family loves it for Thanksgiving and Christmas, of course, but it’s also an ideal easy holiday dessert for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy weekend treat.

For pairing, you can’t go wrong with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream or a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream. A strong, hot coffee or a tall glass of cold milk makes for a comforting accompaniment.

When it comes to storage, this pie is wonderfully convenient for meal prep. You can keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slices wrap beautifully in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing well for 2-3 months. To enjoy later, gently warm individual slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition, Wellness & Everyday Benefits of Simple Pecan Pie

While it’s a rich dessert, our Simple Pecan Pie Recipe can certainly fit into a balanced approach to eating. Enjoy it in moderation! Pecans themselves are little powerhouses, offering healthy fats and a good dose of protein, which makes this a satisfying sweet treat that keeps you full longer than other desserts.

It’s also a versatile, family-friendly dessert. For those following specific diets, it can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets by simply using a gluten-free pie crust. Making this easy holiday dessert at home also means you control the ingredients, aligning perfectly with budget-friendly recipes and a desire for wholesome, comforting food.

Thinking about healthy eating or easy meal prep ideas? While not a healthy weeknight meal, this Simple Pecan Pie Recipe is a hearty, special treat that can be made ahead, saving time for busy hosts. The pecans contribute to it feeling like one of the best protein snacks in dessert form!

Simple Pecan Pie Recipes Easy Holiday Dessert

Recipe Advantages for Different Needs

Choosing to make this Simple Pecan Pie Recipe offers several perks. It’s often much cheaper than buying a gourmet pie from a bakery, allowing you to save money while still enjoying a premium dessert. Plus, you get to control all the ingredients, ensuring the quality and freshness you desire. The quick prep time also makes it suitable for busy schedules.

Stress-free holiday baking: This easy holiday dessert is designed to be straightforward, perfect for busy parents or new bakers looking for a foolproof classic.
A crowd-pleasing hit: Always a favorite, this pie guarantees smiles around the table.
Customizable for preferences: Easily adapt for various dietary needs with simple ingredient swaps.
Excellent for make-ahead: Ideal for meal prep ideas for entertaining or festive brunches, freeing up your time on the day of an event.

Expert Tips, Flavor Boosts, and Adaptations

Want to take your Simple Pecan Pie to the next level? Here are a few expert tricks. Toasting your pecans briefly before adding them to the filling deepens their nutty flavor considerably. For a golden, shiny crust, brush the edges with a simple egg wash before baking. For an elegant touch, consider drizzling the cooled pie with a homemade caramel sauce or a rich chocolate ganache.

To make it kid-approved, try baking the filling in mini pie crusts for individual servings – they’re perfect for little hands! For guests or holidays, arrange extra pecan halves on top in a decorative pattern or add a sprinkle of festive edible glitter. This truly makes it a special easy holiday dessert.

If you have specific dietary needs, consider substitutions like maple syrup for some of the corn syrup (this will alter the flavor slightly but is delicious). Dairy-free milk and vegan butter can replace traditional butter for a dairy-free version. For nut allergies, exploring nut-free alternatives like roasted sunflower seeds can offer a similar crunch, though it will change the classic Simple Pecan Pie experience.

Common Questions About Simple Pecan Pie

Can I make this Simple Pecan Pie ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely! This easy holiday dessert stores beautifully. You can make it 1-2 days in advance and keep it covered at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. It’s a fantastic option for holiday meal prep.

What’s the healthiest way to prepare Simple Pecan Pie?

For a ‘healthier’ take, you can slightly reduce the sugar, opt for a whole wheat crust, or simply focus on enjoying smaller portion sizes. Remember, pecans themselves offer beneficial healthy fats and some protein.

Why is my pecan pie filling runny?

A runny filling typically means your Simple Pecan Pie was underbaked. The center should be set but still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken. Check your oven temperature with an external thermometer and bake a bit longer if needed, tenting with foil if the crust is browning too much.

Can I use store-bought pie crust for this Simple Pecan Pie Recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Using a good quality store-bought 9-inch deep dish pie crust is a wonderful shortcut that makes this an even easier holiday dessert, without sacrificing flavor or quality.

What kind of pecans are best for pecan pie?

Fresh, unsalted pecan halves or pieces are ideal. Ensure they are not rancid. Toasting them briefly in a dry pan before adding them to the recipe enhances their nutty flavor significantly, elevating your Simple Pecan Pie.

How do I prevent my pecan pie crust from burning?

If the edges of your pie crust start to brown too quickly, simply cover them with aluminum foil or a reusable pie crust shield for the remainder of the baking time. This protects the delicate crust while the filling finishes setting.

Can I freeze leftover Simple Pecan Pie?

Yes, you can! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What makes this a ‘simple’ pecan pie recipe?

We focus on straightforward ingredients, minimal steps for mixing the filling, and clear, easy-to-follow baking instructions. Our goal is to eliminate any fuss, ensuring a stress-free and truly easy holiday dessert for everyone.

Conclusion

This Simple Pecan Pie Recipe is truly your ticket to a memorable, stress-free easy holiday dessert. It’s rich, wonderfully comforting, and surprisingly simple to master, proving that classic deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, you’ll love how easily this comes together.

Don’t let this delightful treat slip away! Save this recipe on Pinterest for your next festive gathering or share it with a friend who appreciates the magic of classic, homemade treats. Enjoy!