This pie is a luxurious blend of creamy custard, crunchy pecans, and a nutty, wholesome crust. Traditionally rich and sweet, we’ve reimagined it using almond flour, oats, and coconut sugar to lower the glycemic impact. The custard is infused with vanilla and a hint of nutmeg, while the pecans add texture and heart-healthy fats. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent but supports wellness—perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or a quiet moment of joy with tea. With your flair for inclusive cooking, this version is gluten-free, adaptable for dairy-free diets, and packed with ingredients that nurture the body.
🧺 INGREDIENTS:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp coconut sugar or stevia blend
- Pinch of salt
For the Custard Filling:
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or low-fat milk
- ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup stevia or monk fruit sweetener
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- ¾ cup pecans, roughly chopped
- Optional: 1 tbsp maple syrup or date syrup for glaze
🔪 INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, mix almond flour, oats, coconut oil, sweetener, and salt until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9-inch pie pan, covering the bottom and sides evenly.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a saucepan, gently heat almond milk and cream until warm but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, sweetener, vanilla, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Strain the custard through a fine sieve for extra smoothness (optional but recommended).
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Scatter chopped pecans evenly over the cooled crust.
- Pour the custard mixture gently over the pecans.
- Optional: drizzle maple syrup or date syrup over the top for a glossy finish.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the pie at 175°C (350°F) for 40–45 minutes, or until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- If the crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil.
- Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Refrigerate for 2–3 hours before slicing for best texture.
🍽️ SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Serve chilled with a dollop of unsweetened Greek yogurt or coconut cream.
- Garnish with cinnamon dust or fresh mint.
- Pair with herbal tea like rooibos or cinnamon for a cozy finish.
🌱 WELLNESS NOTES:
- Pecans are rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health and blood sugar stability.
- Almond flour and oats provide fiber and protein, lowering the glycemic load.
- Stevia and monk fruit offer sweetness without spiking glucose levels.
- Nutmeg and vanilla add warmth and digestive support.
- Eggs and cream contribute protein and satiety, helping regulate post-meal blood sugar.
🍳 VARIATIONS:
- Use flax eggs and coconut cream for a vegan version.
- Add turmeric and ginger to the custard for anti-inflammatory depth.
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for different textures.