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Dreamy Pecan Cream Pie with Toasted Pecans

A close-up slice of rich pecan cream pie showing a thick, creamy filling, graham cracker crust, and whipped topping with whole pecans.

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Create a decadent, silky pecan cream pie that is perfect for holidays or any special occasion. This recipe features a rich, creamy filling contrasting with a crunchy toasted pecan topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (9 inch) pre-made or homemade buttery pie crust
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the pie crust and chill it while you make the filling.
  2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and salt.
  3. Gradually whisk in the egg yolks until combined.
  4. Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 8 to 10 minutes. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the butter pieces until the butter melts completely into the custard.
  7. Place half of the toasted pecans in the bottom of the chilled pie crust.
  8. Pour the warm custard filling over the pecans in the crust.
  9. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent a skin from forming. Chill the pie for at least 4 hours, or until the filling is completely set.
  10. When ready to serve, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  11. Spread or pipe the whipped cream topping over the chilled pie.
  12. Arrange the remaining toasted pecans decoratively over the whipped cream.
  13. Keep the pie refrigerated until serving. If you are interested in meal planning for your next gathering, consider looking into best meal delivery services for easy side dishes.

Notes

  • To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • For a cream cheese variation, soften 4 ounces of cream cheese and beat it into the warm custard mixture after removing it from the heat.
  • This pie is a great make-ahead dessert; it sets best when chilled overnight.
  • If you are looking for ways to simplify your cooking routine, explore options like meal delivery companies.

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