Texas Pecan Pie is a beloved dessert that showcases the rich flavors of pecans in a sweet and gooey filling, all nestled in a buttery pastry crust. This classic Southern treat is a staple in Texas cuisine and has a long-standing history that spans generations.
Pecan pie is an iconic dessert that has its roots in Southern cuisine, particularly in the state of Texas. Pecans, native to North America, were a valuable food source for Native American tribes and later became popular among settlers in the Southern United States. Pecan pie as we know it today evolved from traditional sugar pies and nut tarts, with the addition of pecans as the star ingredient.
Texas Pecan Pie gained prominence during the early 20th century when pecan orchards flourished in the state. With an abundance of fresh pecans, Texans began incorporating them into their pies, creating a signature dessert that would become a symbol of Southern hospitality and comfort food.
PREP: 20 MIN.
BAKE: 1 HOUR + COOLING
MAKES: 8 SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Pastry for single-crust pie (9 inches)
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, light corn syrup, dark corn syrup, eggs, vinegar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed in the filling mixture.
- Pour the pecan filling into the pastry shell, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the edges of the pie crust with foil to prevent excessive browning during baking.
- Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil covering the edges of the pie and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center of the pie comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool.
- Allow the Texas Pecan Pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- For storing leftovers, refrigerate the pie to maintain its freshness.
NOTE:
- Texas Pecan Pie is best enjoyed when served slightly warm or at room temperature. Its rich, caramelized pecan filling and flaky pastry crust create a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed during holiday celebrations, family gatherings, or as a special treat, Texas Pecan Pie is a true Southern classic that continues to bring joy to dessert lovers everywhere.
TIPS:
- Toast the Pecans: For an extra boost of flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the pie filling. Simply spread the pecans on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Toasting the pecans enhances their nuttiness and adds a delightful crunch to the pie.
- Use Homemade Pie Crust: While store-bought pie crusts can be convenient, making your own homemade pie crust can take your Texas Pecan Pie to the next level. A homemade crust allows you to control the flavor and texture, resulting in a flakier and more buttery crust. If you have the time and inclination, try making a traditional pie crust from scratch using a combination of flour, butter, salt, and cold water. The extra effort will be well worth it in the end.