This Easy Pioneer Pecan Pie is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, bringing rich, nutty flavors without the use of corn syrup. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year, this pie features a buttery crust and a luscious filling made from simple ingredients. The result is a decadent dessert that captures the essence of traditional pecan pie while keeping it light and naturally sweet.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4-5 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll Out the Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess.
- Make the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Stir in the pecan halves, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading the pecans evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. You may cover the edges of the crust with foil if they brown too quickly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.