Get ready to bake a dessert that’s a true classic! This American pecan pie is the epitome of indulgence, featuring a rich, gooey filling packed with toasted pecans and encased in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s the kind of pie that instantly elevates any meal, bringing warmth and sweetness to your table.
Each bite is a perfect balance of nutty crunch and melt-in-your-mouth caramel goodness, making it impossible to resist. Whether enjoyed plain, with a dollop of whipped cream, or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this dessert is a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.
What makes it special? The simplicity of this recipe lets the star ingredients shine, while the decadent texture and flavor make it feel like a luxurious treat.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a slice of nostalgia, this pecan pie is as easy to make as it is delicious. Pro tip: it tastes even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to save a piece for yourself! Let’s get baking!
American Pecan Pie Recipe
Equipment
- Rolling Pin
- Pie weights or dried beans
- Parchment paper
- Food processor
- 9-inch pie dish
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 cups pecans, chopped (+ extra pecan halves for the top)
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 stick butter salted
- ½ tsp salt
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp ice cold vodka
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 stick unsalted butter, cold and diced
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp ice cold water
Instructions
- For the crust, pulse flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor.
- Add half the butter, pulse until incorporated, then add the rest.
- Gradually mix in water and vodka until the dough just comes together.
- Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface, transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, and pinch the edges to form a ridge.
- Freeze for 10 minutes to re-chill the butter.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line the frozen crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or beans.
- Bake for 10 minutes, remove weights and parchment, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C).
- For the filling, whisk sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
- Brown butter in a saucepan, pour into the mixture, and whisk to combine.
- Stir in chopped pecans and pour into the crust.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until nearly set.
- Add extra pecans on top, then bake again until the filling is fully set.
- Cool for 2 hours on a rack before serving.
Notes
- Use chilled butter and refrigerate the dough for the best crust texture.
- Browning the butter enhances the nutty flavor of the filling.
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 540kcal |
| Total Fat | 33g |
| Carbohydrates | 57g |
| Protein | 6g |
Recipe Tips To Make This Recipe Taste Even Better!
- Top with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the pie’s richness with a creamy, cool contrast.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: A light drizzle of salted caramel sauce over the pie adds a luxurious layer of flavor and complements the nutty pecans beautifully.
- Pair with a Hot Beverage: Enjoy your pie with a cup of coffee, espresso, or spiced chai tea for a cozy and satisfying combination.
- Toast the Pecans: Lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the filling. This enhances their nutty flavor and adds an extra depth of taste to the pie.