This Caramel Pecan Pie is a sweet treat that combines rich caramel and crunchy pecans for a delicious dessert! The crust is flaky and holds all that tasty filling perfectly.
Every bite feels like a warm hug! I like to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—because more yum is always a good idea, right? 😊
What I love the most is how easy it is to whip up! Just mix, pour, and bake. It’s perfect for special gatherings or just a cozy night in.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A 9-inch unbaked pie crust is the base of this pie. I often use store-bought for convenience, but homemade crust is fantastic if you have the time. You can also try a graham cracker crust for a different flavor!
Corn Syrup: Light corn syrup gives the pie its sweetness and smooth texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup, but keep in mind they might change the flavor slightly.
Pecans: Pecan halves are a must for that classic texture and flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t have pecans, walnuts can be a good substitute, though the taste will vary a bit.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel saves time, but homemade caramel sauce is a nice touch if you want to impress! Either way, the caramel melts beautifully into the filling.
How Do I Ensure My Pie Filling Sets Perfectly?
Getting the filling right is key to a perfect Caramel Pecan Pie. The trick is to watch the baking time closely. Here’s how:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.
- After pouring the filling, it should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly to prevent burning.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing; this helps the caramel layer thicken up nicely.
Following these tips will give you a delicious pie with a rich texture and flavor!
Caramel Pecan Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Whipped cream (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Caramel Pecan Pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving. Total time is roughly 3 hours, including cooling time, but most of that is just waiting to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for baking your pie evenly and getting that golden crust.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
Place your unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. If you’re using store-bought, it should already fit well. Don’t forget to crimp the edges for a nice finish!
3. Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined. It should look golden and glossy!
4. Add the Pecans
Now, stir in the pecan halves. Make sure the pecans are distributed evenly throughout the mixture for a nice texture in every slice.
5. Layer the Filling
Carefully pour half of your filling mixture into the prepared pie crust. This keeps your caramel layer safe and gives it a delicious base.
6. Drizzle the Caramel
Take your caramel sauce and drizzle it evenly over the first layer of filling. Feel free to be generous; this is where the magic happens!
7. Complete the Filling Layers
Pour the rest of the filling mixture over the caramel, ensuring that the pecans are floating delicately on top. This will make for a beautiful presentation once baked!
8. Bake the Pie
Place the pie into the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. The center should still have a slight jiggle but not be liquid.
9. Cool the Pie
Once out of the oven, allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. This is super important, as the caramel layer will thicken as it cools, making it easier to slice.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
When you’re ready to serve, cut the pie into delicious slices and top with whipped cream if you like. Enjoy the rich, gooey goodness of your Caramel Pecan Pie!
Happy baking!
Can I Use a Different Kind of Nut in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional for this pie, you can substitute with walnuts or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just be aware that the flavor and texture will change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Pie?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it well to maintain the texture of the filling and crust. You can enjoy it cold or gently reheat individual slices in the microwave!
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance! Just whisk your ingredients together, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, stir in the pecans and pour the mixture into your crust.
What Should I Do if the Pie Crust Starts Browning Too Quickly?
If you notice that your crust is browning too fast during baking, cover the edges with aluminum foil. This will prevent it from burning while allowing the filling to finish cooking. Just make sure to remove the foil in the last 10 minutes for a nicely golden edge!
