Delicious Pecan Pie with a Rich Custard Filling: A Sweet and Nutty Treat
Pecan pie is a classic dessert that never fails to impress, especially when made with a silky custard filling and a generous amount of crunchy pecans. This Pecan Pie with Custard Filling is a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors, along with a smooth filling and flaky crust, makes it the perfect addition to any gathering or a treat to enjoy any day of the year.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
For the Custard Filling:
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (lightly toasted if preferred)
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk for beating eggs
- Spoon for spreading the filling
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If you’re using a store-bought pie crust, place it into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently along the edges to form a nice fit. You can also use a homemade crust if preferred.
- Set the pie crust aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Add the heavy cream and whisk again until the mixture is fully incorporated.
- Add the flour to the mixture, stirring until smooth. The flour will help thicken the custard and give it the perfect texture.
- Gently fold in the toasted pecan halves (reserve a few for decoration if desired). The pecans will provide the signature crunch and flavor to the pie.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the custard and pecan mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula.
- Arrange the remaining pecans on top of the pie in a decorative pattern if you reserved any for this purpose.
Step 4: Bake the Pecan Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The center should no longer jiggle when you tap the pie dish gently.
- If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield to prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling will allow the custard to firm up for perfect slicing.
- Serve the pie at room temperature or chilled, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie:
- Choosing Pecans: For the best flavor, toast your pecans before adding them to the filling. This brings out their natural oils and adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Consistency: Be sure to let the pie cool completely before slicing to ensure the custard sets and doesn’t run.
- Add-ins: Want a little extra flavor? Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling to enhance the sweetness of the pecans.
- Pie Crust Tips: If using a store-bought crust, ensure it’s pre-baked if necessary to prevent a soggy bottom. For a homemade crust, try using a buttery, flaky dough for the perfect texture.
This Pecan Pie with Custard Filling is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering a rich and creamy custard filling paired with crunchy pecans. It’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or just as a sweet indulgence to enjoy with loved ones.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results on social media! Tag us to show off your beautiful, delicious pecan pie! 🍰🥧🍂