There’s something about the first cool breeze of fall that makes me crave pie. The scent of roasted pecans and warm cinnamon drifting through the kitchen feels like home. Every Thanksgiving, I bake this Southern pecan pie, and it never lasts long—it’s buttery, rich, and sweet in all the right ways.
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Why You’ll Love This Southern Pecan Pie
This Southern pecan pie is comfort in a crust. It’s gooey in the middle, crisp around the edges, and full of that deep caramel flavor everyone loves. You only need about ten minutes to prep, especially if you start with a store-bought crust.
It’s the kind of dessert that fits anywhere—holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or even as a sweet gift for a neighbor. Also, it’s nearly foolproof, so you can relax while it bakes.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Key Ingredients
Pecans bring crunch and richness. I like to chop most of them but keep a few halves for texture. Toasting them lightly before baking adds a nutty aroma.
Corn syrup is essential for that glossy filling. Light syrup gives a milder sweetness, while dark syrup creates a bolder, molasses-like flavor.
Brown sugar deepens the pie’s flavor and makes it slightly chewy in the center. Vanilla extract and cinnamon add that cozy Southern warmth.
Optional Ingredient Swaps
You can use browned butter for a richer taste or clarified butter for a clean flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap in your favorite gluten-free crust. A homemade crust adds a personal touch if you have the time.
How to Make Southern Pecan Pie
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chopped pecans into your unbaked pie shell.
In a bowl, whisk eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Pour this mixture over the pecans.
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly. If the crust browns too fast, tent it with foil.
Cool the pie on a wire rack for at least two hours before slicing. The filling will firm up as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A dusting of cinnamon on top adds a lovely touch.
Pro Tips & Storage Guide
Preparation Tips
Use room-temperature eggs for a smooth filling. Mix the ingredients just until combined—overmixing can add unwanted air bubbles. Keep some larger pecan pieces for texture.
Storage & Freezing
Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Flavor Variations
Bourbon Pecan Pie: Add 2 tablespoons of good bourbon for warmth and depth.
Chocolate Pecan Pie: Mix in ¾ cup of semisweet chocolate chips before baking.
Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie: Combine both bourbon and chocolate for a decadent twist.
Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe Card
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Southern Pecan Pie – Simple, Sweet & Irresistible
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 nine-inch pie (about 8 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A gooey, buttery Southern pecan pie with toasty pecans, warm cinnamon, and a glossy caramel-like filling. Quick prep, big holiday flavor, and a gorgeous slice every time.
Ingredients
1 (9-inch) unbaked or frozen pie crust
2 1/2 cups pecans, coarsely chopped (keep some halves and quarters for texture)
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup light or dark corn syrup
3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the coarsely chopped pecans into the unbaked pie shell.
3. Whisk eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture over the pecans in the pie shell.
5. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
6. If the crust browns too quickly, tent the pie loosely with foil.
7. Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to let the filling set.
8. Slice and serve as is, or top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
Preparation Tips:
– Use room-temperature eggs for a silky filling.
– Do not overmix the filling.
– Keep some pecan halves for crunch and visual appeal.
– A slight jiggle in the center means it is done.
Serving:
– Serve warm or at room temperature.
– Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
– Optional pinch of cinnamon on top.
Storage:
– Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days.
– Freeze double-wrapped for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.
Flavor Variations:
– Bourbon Pecan Pie: add 2 tablespoons good bourbon.
– Chocolate Pecan Pie: add 3/4 cup semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips.
– Bourbon Chocolate Pecan Pie: add both bourbon and chocolate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Thanksgiving Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 54
- Sodium: 304
- Fat: 35
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 25
- Trans Fat: 0.2
- Carbohydrates: 70
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 7
- Cholesterol: 73
More Such Recipes
If you love classic Southern desserts, you’ll also enjoy Butter pecan cake for classic Southern dessert lovers or try my Rich and chewy butter pecan cookies recipe. For fruit lovers, bake the Easy skillet blackberry cobbler as a fruity Southern treat. And for your next holiday, make Homemade cherry pie filling for your holiday baking or The best cherry pie recipe for special occasions. If you crave something savory, try my Classic fried green tomatoes recipe – a Southern favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you freeze pecan pie?
Yes. Wrap it well and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Why didn’t my pecan pie set?
It’s usually underbaked or your oven ran a bit cool. Bake longer if the center feels too loose.
How do I know when pecan pie is done?
The edges will be firm, and the center should jiggle slightly, like gelatin, not liquid.
Final Thoughts
This Southern pecan pie tastes like a hug from the holidays—rich, buttery, and just the right kind of sweet. It’s an easy dessert that feels special every time. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why it’s a Southern classic worth keeping year-round.
Share your version on Pinterest or join our cozy baking chats on Facebook. I’d love to hear how yours turned out!