This Brown Sugar Pecan Pie is a sweet treat that combines crunchy pecans with a rich, sugary filling. The brown sugar adds a lovely depth to the flavor that you can’t resist!
Every time I bake this pie, the smell fills my home, and I can hardly wait for it to cool before I have a slice. It’s simply wonderful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pecan Halves: These are essential for that crunch! If you’re allergic or want to switch things up, walnuts or almonds can provide a different flavor profile.
Brown Sugar: I love using light brown sugar for its mellow caramel notes. If you’re out, dark brown sugar works too, just know it gives a deeper flavor. Regular granulated sugar can be used, but you’ll lose some of that rich taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to to control salt levels. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute!
Cream or Evaporated Milk: Heavy cream makes the filling rich, but evaporated milk is lighter. You could swap either for almond milk or a rich soy cream for a dairy-free pie.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure a Perfectly Set Filling?
Getting the filling to set can be tricky, but there are a few tips to ensure success. The filling should be slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven, as it firms up while cooling.
- Watch your baking time closely. Check for doneness around the 50-minute mark.
- If the edges of your crust are browning too fast, cover them with foil. This prevents burning while the filling cooks through.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack. This helps stabilize the filling, allowing it to firm before slicing.
With these techniques, you’ll be sure to have a delightful Brown Sugar Pecan Pie! Enjoy the deliciousness!
Brown Sugar Pecan Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 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 or evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Brown Sugar Pecan Pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 50-55 minutes to bake, and then some time to cool. Overall, you can expect a total time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and make sure to let it cool completely before serving to achieve the perfect texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and develops that nice golden crust.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Take your unbaked 9-inch pie crust and place it into a pie plate. If you want to make it look nice, you can crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork. Yes, a pretty pie is always more enjoyable!
3. Combine the Sugars and Salt:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined so your pie filling will taste just right!
4. Add the Eggs:
Next, add the eggs to the sugar mixture, beating them in one at a time. This step makes sure each egg incorporates nicely, giving your filling a smooth consistency.
5. Mix in the Other Ingredients:
Now, stir in the slightly cooled melted butter, heavy cream (or evaporated milk), and pure vanilla extract. Keep stirring until everything is mixed together nicely.
6. Arrange the Pecans:
Spread the pecan halves evenly over the bottom of your prepared crust. This layering helps ensure that each slice of pie gets a good amount of those delicious nuts.
7. Pour in the Filling:
Carefully pour your sugar and egg mixture over the pecans, making sure they remain evenly distributed. This will help create that beautiful pecan topping.
8. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for about 50-55 minutes. You want the filling to be set but still have a little wiggle in the center. If the edges of the crust start to brown too much, cover them with foil or a pie shield after about 20 minutes.
9. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. The filling will set nicely as it cools down, making it easier to slice.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Brown Sugar Pecan Pie is now ready! Serve it at room temperature or chilled. You can top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra treat!
Enjoy your rich and nutty Brown Sugar Pecan Pie with a flaky crust and luscious sweet filling! It’s a delightful dessert for any occasion! 🍰
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save you time and effort. Just follow the package instructions for blind baking if necessary, then fill it with your pecan filling.
How Do I Store Leftover Pecan Pie?
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It should keep well for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving again.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! This pie can be made a day or two in advance. Just bake it, cool it completely, and then refrigerate it. It will taste just as delicious when it’s time to serve!
What Can I Substitute for the Eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal or chia seeds. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it thickens before adding it to the mixture.
