Growing up, Pumpkin Pecan Pie was always the star of our Thanksgiving dessert table. I can still remember the comforting aroma of it baking in the oven, the sweet scent of pumpkin and toasted pecans wafting through the house. My grandma would make it every year without fail, and we’d all eagerly await our slice, the perfect balance of creamy pumpkin filling and crunchy pecans. There was just something so nostalgic and indulgent about that first bite, the way the flavors would dance on your tongue. Pumpkin Pecan Pie has a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to share my grandma’s prized recipe with you today.
Why This Pumpkin Pecan Pie Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
This Pumpkin Pecan Pie recipe is truly a showstopper. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and nutty, with a silky smooth texture that’ll have your guests swooning. The secret lies in the blend of pumpkin puree, warm fall spices, and the toasted pecans that add a delightful crunch in every bite. Plus, the homemade buttery crust is flaky and tender, the perfect vessel for this decadent filling.
The Secret Behind Perfect Pumpkin Pecan Pie
The key to this Pumpkin Pecan Pie is all in the technique. We start by roasting the pumpkin puree to intensify the flavor, then we fold in just the right amount of brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of nutmeg to create a spice blend that’s out of this world. The real magic happens when we stir in the toasted pecans – their nutty essence perfectly complements the sweet pumpkin. And the secret to that flaky crust? Chilling the dough before rolling it out and blind-baking the shell. Trust me, your friends and family will be begging you to make this Pumpkin Pecan Pie again and again.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Pumpkin puree
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Heavy cream
- Cinnamon
- Ginger
- Nutmeg
- Vanilla extract
- Pecans
- Unsalted butter
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
Step-by-Step Pumpkin Pecan Pie Instructions
Preparing Your Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F and gather all your ingredients. You’ll need a 9-inch pie dish, a mixing bowl, and a few basic kitchen tools. This Pumpkin Pecan Pie recipe takes about an hour and a half to prepare, with an additional hour of baking time. Let’s get started!
1- First, we’ll make the buttery pie crust. In a food processor, pulse the flour, salt, and chilled butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add in ice water and pulse just until the dough starts to come together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2- While the dough is chilling, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3- In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4- Roll out the chilled pie dough to a 12-inch circle and gently transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges and prick the bottom with a fork. Blind bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
5- Pour the pumpkin filling into the pre-baked crust and sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until the center is almost set.
6- Allow the Pumpkin Pecan Pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
The key to a perfectly smooth Pumpkin Pecan Pie filling is to make sure your pumpkin puree is well-drained. Squeeze out any excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel. This will prevent a soggy crust.
To avoid over-browning the pecans, keep a close eye on them as they toast. The aroma will let you know when they’re ready.
Don’t overbeat the filling – this can cause air bubbles and cracks in the final pie. Gently fold in the ingredients until just combined.
Serving and Storing Your Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Perfect Pairings for Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Pumpkin Pecan Pie is the ultimate Thanksgiving or holiday dessert, but it’s also delicious year-round. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra-indulgent treat. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of warm apple cider.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Pumpkin Pecan Pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes.
For make-ahead convenience, you can bake the pie crust up to 3 days in advance and store it at room temperature. The filling can be made and refrigerated for up to 2 days before assembling and baking the pie.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Creative Pumpkin Pecan Pie Variations
While the classic Pumpkin Pecan Pie is hard to beat, you can get creative with fun flavor twists. Try swapping the pecans for walnuts or almonds, or adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the filling. For a festive touch, sprinkle the top with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce.
Making Pumpkin Pecan Pie Diet-Friendly
To make a gluten-free Pumpkin Pecan Pie, simply swap the all-purpose flour in the crust for a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, use dairy-free milk and a flax or chia egg instead of regular eggs. And for a low-carb twist, replace the brown sugar with an equal amount of your favorite keto-friendly sweetener.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of making my own?
A: Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to look for 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Q: How do I know when the Pumpkin Pecan Pie is done baking?
A: The pie is ready when the center is almost set, with just a slight jiggle in the middle. The edges should be puffed up and the top lightly browned.
Q: Can I make this Pumpkin Pecan Pie in advance?
A: Yes, this pie is a great make-ahead option. You can bake it up to 5 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Q: How many people does this Pumpkin Pecan Pie recipe serve?
A: This recipe will yield one 9-inch pie, which can serve 8-10 people, depending on how generously you slice it.
Q: What should I do if the crust starts to brown too quickly?
A: If the crust is browning too quickly during baking, simply cover the edges with foil or a pie shield to prevent further browning.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 8
Description
Indulge in the ultimate autumn dessert with this homemade pumpkin pecan pie. Featuring a flaky, buttery crust and a rich, creamy filling bursting with pumpkin and warm spices, this irresistible treat is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy gathering.
Ingredients
– 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1 pre-made pie crust
– 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. – In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. – Unroll the pre-made pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges as desired.
4. – Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust.
5. – Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top of the filling.
6. – Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. – Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use dark corn syrup instead of light. You can also add a tablespoon of bourbon or brandy to the filling. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Pumpkin Pecan Pie is a classic fall dessert that’s sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe delivers on both flavor and texture, with a creamy pumpkin filling and a crunchy pecan topping nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread or any holiday gathering. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get baking – your family and friends are going to love this Pumpkin Pecan Pie!