Classic Pecan Pie is a great Southern treat that is incredibly easy and delicious, with loads of buttery pecans baked in a soft filling made with eggs, butter, and sugar. It has a total of eight easy ingredients, and if using a frozen or premade crust, you can have it in the oven in less than ten minutes.
I love to serve this homemade Pecan Pie during the holidays, especially around Thanksgiving, along with pumpkin pie and Dutch apple pie.
Why this recipe works!
- This pie is always a big family hit. I mean, honestly, who wouldn’t love a soft buttery mess of pecans nestled in soft sweetness made with eggs, brown sugar, and butter all in a flaky, buttery crust? Oh, did I forget to mention the butter?
- If using a frozen or premade pie crust, this pie is in the oven in less than 10 minutes, leaving you plenty of time for the rest of the meal.
- The ingredients for this pie are readily available at most local grocery stores. There is nothing complicated here, and you can even pick up a frozen pie crust or premade pie crust at the grocery store.
How to make Pecan Pie
Start by adding the coarsely chopped pecans to the unbaked pie crust. Then in a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Now pour the mixture over the pecans. Finally, bake for about 55-60 minutes or until the center has just a slight jiggle, but the edges are stable and set. If the crust browns too much, cover the top with a loose piece of aluminum foil. The pie needs to cool for at least 2 hours on a wire rack before you slice it. Top with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Recipe notes and helpful tips
- If you have the time make a delicious homemade pie crust. Simply cut this recipe in half since it is for a double crust. It won’t take long at all, and your guests will be so impressed with your cooking.
- Don’t chop your pecan halves too much. Just a quick coarse chop. There should still be whole halves and some quarters for the best texture.
- The pie should still be ever so slightly jiggly in the middle when it is done; however, the outside should be set and steady.
- For the ultimate pleasure, top with fresh whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Once cooled, store the pecan pie covered in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Flavor Variations for Pecan Pie Filling
- Bourbon Pecan Pie – Add 2 tablespoons of good quality bourbon to the egg mixture.
- Chocolate Pecan Pie – Add 3/4 cup semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips to the egg mixture.
- Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie – Add 2 tablespoons of good quality bourbon and 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips to the egg mixture.
Can you freeze Pecan Pie?
Yes, this pecan pie freezes well double-wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator, so condensation does not build up in the freezer bag and affect the crust or the consistency of the pie.
Why did my pumpkin pie not set?
The most common reason that your pumpkin pie did not set was that it was not baked long enough for the custard to set or the oven temperature is off. Place it back in the oven for a few minutes but cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it from overbrowning.
Other pies you will love!
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Best Pecan Pie Recipe
Impress your guests with this perfect Southern Pecan Pie. With eight easy ingredients and only ten minutes of prep time, you too, can cook like a chef.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: dessert
- Method: bake
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
- 1 (9 inch) unbaked or frozen pie crust
- 2 ½ cups pecans coarsely chopped
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup light corn syrup or dark corn syrup
- ¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (slightly cooled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Add pecans to the unbaked pie shell.
- In a large bowl, stir together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the mixture over the pecans.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes or until the center has just a slight jiggle but the edges are stable and set. Cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
- If you have the time, make a delicious homemade pie crust. Simply cut this recipe in half since it is for a double crust. It won’t take long at all, and your guests will be so impressed with your cooking.
- Don’t chop your pecan halves too much. Just a quick coarse chop. There should still be whole halves and some quarters for the best texture.
- The pie should still be ever so slightly jiggly in the middle when it is done; however, the outside should be set and steady.
- For the ultimate pleasure, top with fresh whipped cream and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Once cooled, store the pecan pie covered in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Keywords: best pecan pie, how to make pecan pie, Southern pecan pie
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Ed
Pecan pie has always been my favorite. I love it with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. I just does not get much better than that.
Gervin
Such an easy and delicious dessert to make. I make this every Thanksgiving and everyone loves it. Great recipe!
★★★★★
Sandy
The combination of buttery pecans and the soft filling made with eggs, butter, and sugar is truly heavenly. What’s even more amazing is that this recipe only requires eight easy-to-find ingredients, and if you use a frozen or premade crust, you can whip up the pie in no time at all. It’s definitely a must , especially during the holidays when it can be enjoyed alongside other classic pies like pumpkin and Dutch apple.
Mary
I have always enjoyed pecan pie, but I’ve never tried making it myself. Sounds delicious, and not too difficult.
Alita
This sweet Southern favorite is a festive dessert loved by many, especially during the holiday season. Your recipe is spot on just like my Grandmas!
★★★★★
Monica
Thanks for sharing this scrumptious Southern Pecan Pie recipe! Your simple instructions and delightful description make it a breeze to recreate this classic treat. Your post brings the warmth of Southern cooking to our kitchens. Can’t wait to make it again. It was devoured over here.
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Monica! So glad that everyone liked it!
Rich
This pecan poie recipe is the best. So yummy and easy to make. Top with homemade whipped cream and pinch of cinnamon.
Debbie
This recipe reminds my so much of visiting my family in Tennessee. My aunts would make pecan pie for our family reunions and it was always my favorite. I’m excited to find a recipe to try to make myself!
★★★★★
Heather k
Such a delicious pie recipe. Love the gooey center with the Crunchy pecans.
★★★★★
bright loveland snow
pecan pie is truly amazing and delicious. a friends mum prepared some for her party last year and it was so nice.
Sue-Tanya Mchorgh
Your classic recipe captures the essence of Southern goodness. The rich, buttery pecans in that soft, sweet filling sound absolutely irresistible. It’s the ultimate comfort dessert, especially for holiday gatherings.
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
I could not agree more, Sue! Enjoy!
Lisa
This pie was really good. I served it with freah whipped cream and everyone loved it. I am going to put it on our Thanksgiving menu.
Rhian
Great pecan pie recipe. It turned out perfect. Just the way my family and I like it.
Monidipa
Your Southern Pecan Pie recipe is a delight! The simplicity you’ve infused into the instructions makes baking it a breeze. Can’t wait to try this classic treat with your easy-to-follow steps. Thanks for sharing this scrumptious dessert idea!
★★★★★
Karen
Great pecan pie recipe! It turned out perfect. It was my trial run for the upcoming holidays!
Sherri
My other half loves pecan pie, but can’t have pecans anymore. Can I just make the filling without the pecans?
Jill
Perfect ingredients but it comes out best with less pecans and a smidge more time.
★★★★
Laurel
I used this recipe to make my second pecan pie ever (for the first one I used a different recipe, it was a total fail) but this one came out PERFECT. The filling was perfectly set and just the right consistency! The only thing I did differently was slightly candy the pecans before pouring in the filling (totally suggest doing that lol)
So good!
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Laurel! So glad that you liked the pie. Great tip on candying the pecans.
Hernandez
The flavor is great but I don’t understand what I did wrong?
The center came out runny and the outside came out a little burnt. I baked it for the right amount of time and everything so I’m not sure where it went wrong.
★★★★
Beth Pierce
Sorry to hear that. More than likely it was not baked long enough.
Denise
I am making this for Thanksgiving and freezing for a couple of weeks. How do you recommend reheating or baking on Thanksgiving?
Beth Pierce
Sorry about the delayed response. Cook the pie in advance. Thaw in the fridge overnight. Take out of the fridge about 40 minutes prior to reheating to bring to room temperature. Reheat to 300 degrees for 10-15 minutes.
Kelly
Do you use a deep dish crust for this pie?
Beth Pierce
No. That is not a deep dish. Sorry about the delay in responding.
Mary B
What if you are using salted butter? Would you recommend not adding any extra salt?
Beth Pierce
I would not add any salt if using salted butter. Good call.
Dominique
It doesn’t get much bette than southern pecan pie! I tried this recipe and it was classic, delicious – and yes / easy!
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks Dominique! So glad that you enjoyed it!
Jupiter Hadley
I have never had a pecan pie, but they sound so interesting! I just do not trust myself to be the first person to cook it for me.
Yeah Lifestyle
I love eating Pecan Pie but never tried making it on my own. Your recipe was so detailed and easy to follow. We all loved the pie!
★★★★★
Clarice
Wow! This looks really delicious. It’s been a while since I had Pecan Pie. Would love to try your recipe. Thank you for sharing.
Samantha Donnelly
This pecan pie reminded me of the one my Mom made years ago. It was always one of my favorites and now I know how to make it.
★★★★★
Mosaic Art
I love pecan pies but I never baked one myself. Your recipe is very easy to follow, I can’t wait to bake me a delicious pie.
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks! Enjoy!
Rosey
For some reason, I’ve always been scared to make one at home. I might give it a try for Thanksgiving. Maybe I can recruit my daughter to help.
Beth Pierce
They are so easy to make! I am sure you will do fine!
Bedabrata Chakraborty
I love pecans and I love pies. The recipe is so simple and so tasty! My friends and I really enjoyed it!
★★★★★
Jennifer Prince
I love pecan pie, but I’ve never tried to make it. This seems easy enough. I think I may try it for Thanksgiving or Christmas this year!
Margaret D
A keeper of a recipe! Many compliments.❤️
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks so much Margaret! So glad that you enjoyed it!
Susan
Omgoodness this recipe is so much easier and simpler than one I have used in the past and more delicious Thank you for making my “challenged baking” life easier
Beth Pierce
You are most welcome Susan! I am happy to help.
Mary McWilliams
I just got done preparing my pecan pie and sticking it in the oven. Can’t wait to try it! Thanks for the easy recipe!
Beth Pierce
My pleasure Mary! Enjoy!
Tasha Boone
Hello! I’m new to pecan pie. Should I toast the pecans before using?
Beth Pierce
You don’t have to but it does add a little more flavor to the pie. Watch the nuts closely so you do not brown them too much.
Christine
Do I need to let frozen pie crust defrost or cook prior to baking the pie?
Beth Pierce
No you do not have to.
Lynndee
I love a good pecan pie especially during Thanksgiving. That looks delish!
Janeane Davis
Pecan pie is one of my favorites so I am glad that I came across this blog post because it gives me a new recipe to try.
Melissa Cushing
I am a southern girl living in the northeast and I cannot believe that I have never made a Pecan Pie! I have pinned this to make sure my sister so thank you for sharing 😉 Looks amazing!
★★★★★
Melissa Cushing
I pinned this recipe to make for Christmas when my sister comes into to town 😉 I love a good Pecan Pie recipe and this looks delicious!
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks Melissa! Enjoy!!
Catalina
Mmmm…. I am drooling over this pecan pie. It’s my favorite!
★★★★★
Swathi
That looks like delicious pecan pie. I would love to try it. I want to make pecan pie for long time. your recipe is so easy.
★★★★★
Marysa
I have never actually tried making a pecan pie! But I absolutely love them. I will have to try out your recipe!
Sarah Bailey
Oh my goodness this Pecan Pie sounds right up my street – how delicious! I love that it is easy to cook as well!
jenn
This pecan pie looks so amazing. Pecan pie is definitely one of my favorite pies of all time.
Monica Simpson
I’m bummed I didn’t eat any pecan pie this year. The only option was pumpkin. I should just make this for myself!
MELANIE EDJOURIAN
I love this!!! It’s such a naughty but tasty dessert. I think this would be a hit with my family and friends.
Kathy
I love pecan pie. It’s probably one of my favorite pies. I’ll have to give your recipe a try. I have not made one myself yet.
Richelle Milar
Wow ! That looks absolutely delicious! This is such a really great recipe! I love it!
★★★★★
Magen
This was amazing!! The only thing I didn’t like was waiting 2 hours to eat it…..Definitely my favorite out of all the recipes I have tried! Thank you so much!
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks, Magen! The pleasure is all mine!
Ana De- Jesus
Whenever I think of a stand out American Dessert, a pecan pie springs to mind. Yours looks amazing!
Tasheena
This pecan pie looks really yummy, looking forward to giving this recipe a try.
★★★★★
Amber Myers
I must try this for sure. I just love pecan pie. I normally cheat and buy a frozen one.
Tanya P.
Super easy and very good. This will be my new go-to pecan pie recipe 🙂
★★★★★
Beth Pierce
Thanks Tanya! So glad that you like it!
Monica Simpson
This recipe doesn’t intimidate me as some other pie ones do. I love pecans so I really want to try and make this!
Tara Pittman
I have never made a pecan pie. This is my next dessert recipe to make.
Eileen M Loya
Yummy! I like that you have given some suggestions to tweak the recipe according to our preference. Pecan pie is always a winner with my family. I am going to try the one with chocolate chips. That would be so delicious!
★★★★★
Ladena
My mom LOVES Pecan Pie, she’d be over the moon if I made this for her. Thanks for the recipe!
★★★★★
Danielle Wolter
I am all about a southern pecan pie. This looks absolutely amazing!
★★★★★
Dannii
Pecans are my favourite nut and I love any dessert with pecans. This looks epic!
★★★★★
Maria
Pecan pie is the best! The Bourbon Pecan Pie sounds tempting, i’ll definitely try this one on the next bake day.
★★★★★
Anaiah
Pecan pie has always been one of my favorites and your recipe does NOT disappoint! Perfect with a big serving of whipped cream. Yum! Definitely going to try adding chocolate chips next time like you suggested.
★★★★★
Toni
This is such a gorgeous pie! Everyone at my house enjoyed it!
★★★★★
Bintu | Budget Delicious
I love a good pecan pie and this sounds so sweet and delicious! One of my fave desserts for sure.
★★★★★
Beth Sachs
Pecan Pie is one of our favourite desserts and this recipe is so easy to make!
★★★★★
Michelle
This was such a delicious pecan pie! It was amazing with a dollop of vanilla ice cream! Thank you for sharing!
★★★★★
Karen M
I made this yesterday and baby..this was delicious yes
★★★★★
kerri
the perfect southern holiday dessert!
rika
Looks scrumptious! Pecan pie is one of my fav desserts! Can’t wait to make it.
★★★★★
Jane Saunders
I like the sound of your variations, especially the chocolate AND bourbon version.
★★★★★
Healing Tomato
I am a huge fan of pecan pies and this southern flavored one goes right to the top of my bookmark list! It looks so delicious and comforting.
★★★★★
Jen
Such a delicious dessert for my whole family! They loved it!
★★★★★
Brad
Love that this is so easy to make! This is delicious and a real treat.
★★★★★
Emily Liao
This pecan pie was so delicious! The flavors and textures were on point. Will be making again for tomorrow 🙂
Jacque Hastert
This is a true southern classic pie! I am loving that these are loaded with pecans and flavor. I can’t wait to bake this pie.
★★★★★
Allyson Zea
Wow this pie looks absolutely delightful! I can’t wait to try it
★★★★★
Haley Williams
This pecan pie sounds delicious right about now!
★★★★★
Erin
I need to try this Pecan Pie is immediately, it looks so good!
★★★★★
Amanda
Pecan pie is my favorite and this recipe is fantastic!
★★★★★
Michelle
Pecan pie is my husband’s favorite. This recipe looks perfect.
★★★★★
Tanya
This was really amazing!! Everyone at my house!
★★★★★
Angela
Nothing can beat a great homemade pecan pie. Great recipe…YUM!
★★★★★
Mirlene
I love this pie and my family aways ask me to make it again and again.
★★★★★
Kathryn Donangelo
This pecan pie is so perfect!! I can not wait to make this for thanksgiving! It looks so easy and simple to make too with your instructions, thank you!
★★★★★