This Brown Sugar Pecan Pie is a sweet treat that blends gooey brown sugar and crunchy pecans. It’s baked in a flaky crust that makes each bite delightful!
What’s better than a pie that tastes like a hug? I love to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—pure happiness on a plate! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use store-bought crust for convenience, or make your own with flour, butter, and a pinch of salt. If you’re gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free crust or make one from almond flour.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a lovely caramel flavor. Dark brown sugar works too; it will deepen the flavor. If you need it plain, you can use granulated sugar, but the taste will be less rich.
Pecans: I love using whole pecan halves for presentation, but chopped pecans will work just as well. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seeds as an alternative, but the texture will differ.
Heavy Cream: This makes the filling extra creamy, but you can swap it with whole milk. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative.
How Do I Ensure the Filling Sets Perfectly?
Getting the filling just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can cause air bubbles, leading to a puffy filling when baked.
- Make sure to cool the melted butter slightly before adding it—this prevents cooking the eggs in your mixture.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. The pie is done when the edges are set, but the center still jiggles slightly. This helps achieve that perfect gooey texture!
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to firm up.
With these tips and substitutions in mind, you’ll be well on your way to baking a wonderfully delicious Brown Sugar Pecan Pie! Enjoy!
Brown Sugar Pecan Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Brown Sugar Pecan Pie will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, it will need about 2 hours to cool and set before serving. All in all, you’ll have a delicious pie ready in about 3 hours! Patience is key here.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take your pie crust and carefully place it into a 9-inch pie plate. Make sure to press it evenly against the bottom and sides. You can trim and crimp the edges if you’d like to add a decorative touch!
2. Mix the Sugars:
In a mixing bowl, combine the packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Give them a good whisk to blend them together nicely.
3. Add the Eggs:
Crack the eggs into the sugar mixture and whisk them until everything is smooth and fully combined. This step is important for creating a consistent filling.
4. Incorporate the Other Ingredients:
Now it’s time to slowly add the melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract into the egg and sugar mixture. Gently whisk until everything is fully incorporated. You’ll want to avoid any lumps here!
5. Add the Pecans:
Take the pecan halves and gently fold them into the filling, making sure they’re evenly coated. This will ensure delicious pecan goodness in every bite!
6. Fill the Pie Crust:
Carefully pour the pecan filling into your prepared pie crust. Spread the pecans evenly across the surface for a beautiful finish.
7. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it! The filling should be set but still jiggle slightly in the center when you tap the pan.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for about 2 hours. This step helps the filling set properly. Once it’s cool, slice it up and serve at room temperature or slightly warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you like!
Enjoy your luscious Brown Sugar Pecan Pie! It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to impress family and friends!
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust is a great time-saver. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking if required, and proceed with the filling as directed in the recipe.
How Can I Prevent the Crust from Getting Soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, you can blind bake the crust for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier that keeps the crust from absorbing too much moisture from the filling.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This pie can be made a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftover pie should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy it warm!
