Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie: A Classic Southern Delight
The Pioneer Woman, known for her charming and heartwarming approach to cooking, has significantly influenced home kitchens across America. Ree Drummond, the face behind the Pioneer Woman brand, has captured the hearts and appetites of many with her delicious recipes and relatable storytelling. Among her collection of comfort food classics, pecan pie stands out as a beloved staple, particularly in Southern and American cuisines. This rich, nutty dessert holds a special place on tables during holidays and gatherings, evoking warmth and nostalgia for friends and family alike. Its sweet, gooey filling paired with crunchy pecans creates a delightful balance that is hard to resist.
In this article, we will explore the origins and variations of pecan pie, as well as offer a detailed recipe inspired by the Pioneer Woman herself. You’ll find step-by-step instructions for crafting this delectable dessert, along with essential tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will equip you with everything you need to create your own slice of pecan pie perfection.
What is Pecan Pie?
Pecan pie is a classic American dessert that features a rich, sweet filling made primarily from pecans, eggs, butter, and a sweetener, traditionally corn syrup. It is characterized by its gooey, custard-like texture combined with the crunchy, nutty flavor of pecans. The origins of pecan pie can be traced back to the early 19th century, particularly in the Southern United States, where pecans are native and abundant. Over the years, this dessert has evolved, gaining popularity across the country and becoming a staple at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners.
The traditional pecan pie recipe has seen many variations that cater to various tastes and preferences. While the classic version remains a favorite, modern interpretations may include added ingredients like chocolate, bourbon, or a hint of spice. These variations provide a twist on the original, allowing bakers to personalize the pie according to their liking. Despite these innovations, the essential component—the pecan—remains a constant. Not only do pecans contribute to the pie’s unique flavor and texture, but they also offer health benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, pecans can provide a nutritious element to this indulgent dessert, making pecan pie a delightful indulgence that offers more than just sweetness.
Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie: Overview
Ree Drummond, affectionately known as the Pioneer Woman, has become a household name in the realm of cooking and food blogging. With her down-to-earth personality and captivating stories, she brings a refreshing approach to comfort food. Her love for hearty, wholesome meals resonates with home cooks across America, inspiring many to embrace their culinary skills. Among her numerous comforting recipes, her pecan pie stands out as a quintessential dessert that embodies her homey culinary style.
Drummond’s pecan pie recipe is cherished for its simplicity and the robust flavor it offers. Utilizing a straightforward blend of ingredients, she crafts a pie that perfectly balances sweetness with the rich nuttiness of pecans. Ree’s emphasis on kindness in the kitchen and the joy of sharing food with loved ones makes her pecan pie not just a dessert, but a centerpiece of family gatherings and celebrations. Whether served during Thanksgiving or as an everyday treat, the Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie is a celebration of Southern tradition and home-cooked goodness that is sure to delight all who partake.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie
To create the Pioneer Woman’s pecan pie, you’ll need a selection of simple yet essential ingredients that combine to form a deliciously rich dessert. Below is a breakdown of the main ingredients along with the crust components:
Main Ingredients
- Pecans: They provide the nutty flavor and crunchy texture that is essential to the pie.
- Corn syrup: This acts as the primary sweetener, adding sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Brown sugar and granulated sugar: These sugars enhance sweetness and contribute to the pie’s rich flavor.
- Eggs: They serve as the binding agent, helping to hold the filling together.
- Butter: Adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the filling.
Crust Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: The base for creating a flaky crust.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust.
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and ensures a tender texture.
- Ice water: Used to hydrate the dough and keep it cool during preparation.
For those who want to add a little twist, consider including optional ingredients such as vanilla extract for depth of flavor or chocolate chips for a delightful variation.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Pioneer Woman’s Pecan Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
Directions
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preparing your pie crust. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own from scratch. If making from scratch, combine all-purpose flour and salt in a bowl, then cut in the unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Roll it out on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. For a flaky crust, avoid overworking the dough. Once prepared, par-bake the crust for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until lightly golden.
2. Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, continuing to whisk until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well blended. The filling should be thick and creamy.
3. Assemble the Pie
Spread the chopped pecans evenly over the pre-baked pie crust. Carefully pour the filling mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated. The pecans will float to the top as the filling settles. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed to avoid any uneven cooking.
4. Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled pie into the oven and bake for approximately 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on the pie towards the end; it should puff up and set. You can check doneness by gently shaking the pie; if the filling wobbles slightly but is not liquid, it is done.
5. Cooling and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period allows the filling to set properly. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, and consider topping it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
pioneer woman pecan pie
Equipment
- 1 9-inch pie pan
- 1 mixing bowls
- 1 whisk
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 rolling pin if making crust from scratch
- 1 oven
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and smooth.
- Stir in the pecan halves until they are evenly distributed in the mixture.
- Pour the pecan filling into the unbaked pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly browned.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- Serve the pecan pie at room temperature or slightly warmed, optionally adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
