Image by Levi Guzman

Pecan pie

As the leaves turn to shades of red and orange, it’s the perfect time to pay homage to the iconic American classic, Pecan Pie. This delectable confection is an autumnal comfort food for dessert lovers and home bakers alike. Its wonderful combination of sweet, crunchy, and buttery flavors make it a perennial favorite.

Pecan pie


The main feature of Pecan Pie is, of course, pecans. They provide a nutty richness to the dish while also adding a satisfying crunch. These nuts are used in a number of ways, from whole roasted or candied pieces, to chopped and blended right into the batter. This makes the pie a unique and delicious treat that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

Additionally, Pecan Pie stands out due to its syrup-based filling. The sweetness provided by this sticky concoction is what really brings the entire dish together. It’s also a great way to use seasonal fruits like apples or apricots. If you’re feeling adventurous, try offsetting the sweetness with some salty ingredients like bacon or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Interestingly, the story behind Pecan Pie’s origin is somewhat of a mystery. It may have been a traditional favorite in the South for many years, but the first written recipe appeared in the late 19th century. Regardless, its allure has only grown since then and it continues to be a staple of collective Thanksgiving tables around the world.

In conclusion, when it comes to comfort food, few treats can compare to the delightful joy of Pecan Pie. Its delightful blend of simple yet sophisticated flavors bake together perfectly and create a wonderful balance between sweet and savory. So, whip up a batch, sit back, and enjoy this autumnal delight.

The origin of Pecan pie

Ah, the Pecan Pie. A beloved and iconic Southern dish, often enjoyed during long family dinners and holiday feasts, this sweet confection has a surprisingly varied and creative history.

The origin of Pecan Pie dates all the way back to Louisiana during the 19th century – and it was far removed from its current form. During that time period, cooks mixed crushed pecan nuts with molasses to create a filling for simple pies. This concoction was then combined with other ingredients such as corn syrup and cream to form what we might now recognize as being similar to the modern Pecan Pie recipe.

However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that the true Pecan Pie came into being. It is typically credited to Mrs. Marshall Cooper, who published her original recipe in a cookbook in 1925. Her recipe combined pecans, eggs, sugar and butter for a unique and delightful flavour.

From there, other variations of the dish began to emerge, providing countless flavour options to create various versions of Pecan Pie. For instance, adding citrus zest or using cinnamon is a popular way to amplify the pie’s taste.

The confusion around the creation of Pecan Pie also adds to its eccentric history. Legends claim the dish was first created by Native Americans in the 1700s, while some people would swear the French pioneered the recipe during their migration to the Louisiana area.

No matter the truth, Pecan Pie remains a beloved and timeless Southern delicacy. Whether enjoyed during group gatherings, or as a special treat during an intimate dinner, this wholesome dish continues to delight mouths across the United States.

FAQs about Pecan pie

Does pecan pie need to be refrigerated?

Yes, it is best to refrigerate pecan pie and many other types of pies. The refrigeration will help keep the pie fresh for longer and prevent any spoilage.


Is eating pecan pie good for you?

No, eating pecan pie is not particularly good for you. While it does provide some nutritional benefits, such as a source of healthy fats and small amounts of nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium, it is also high in calories and contains a lot of added sugar.


Why is pecan pie so fattening?

Pecan pie is so fattening because it is made with heavy ingredients like butter, sugar, and syrup. The butter and sugar provide a high calorie content, and the syrup adds to the richness of the pie. Additionally, the high fat content from the pecans adds to the overall calorie count.


Why is pecan pie so hard?

Pecan pie is hard because it contains a lot of sugar and corn syrup, and those ingredients create a hard, crunchy texture. Another factor that contributes to the hardness of pecan pie is the fact that many recipes call for baking the pie for a long period of time, which gives it time to fully set and harden.


Types of Pecan pie

The pecan pie is one of those soulfully delightful desserts that is as much a part of American culture as it is an international delicacy. From its creamy custard filling and buttery crust to its decadently sweet top layer of crunchy, nutty pecans, the delectable dish is beloved by foodies and casual diners alike worldwide.

But, did you know there is more than one type of pecan pie? Indeed, this unassuming dessert comes in many varieties and with an array of unique flavors. Whether you’re a fan of the classic recipe or eager to explore new horizons, you’re sure to find one that perfectly suits your palate.

For starters, there’s the traditional version of pecan pie, which typically consists of a flaky or shortcrust pastry base filled with a rich custard mix of eggs, butter, sugar and pecans. This classic rendition also often includes a pinch of salt, a splash of vanilla extract, and sometimes a drizzle of golden syrup or molasses. Typically served warm with a dollop of cream on the side, the dish has been known to induce blissful reverie in eaters.

Another popular version is the chocolate pecan pie. Just as it sounds, this variety combines the rich sweetness of your favorite childhood chocolates with the crunchy texture of pecans to create a match made in heaven. For an extra dose of indulgence, some recipes call for additional elements like marshmallows, crushed pretzels, or Nutella.

And for all you bourbon-lovers out there, a bourbon-infused pecan pie might be just what you need. This sweet and smoky dessert is made with white sugar, corn syrup and heavy cream as a base, while bourbon gives it a robust touch of flavor. Salted butter and chopped pecans are then added to the mix before it's baked into a golden flaky crust.

Finally, there’s the always-delicious vegan pecan pie. Vegans can indulge in the dish by using vegan butter, soy milk, maple syrup instead of corn syrup, and a flaky gluten-free pastry shell to make their own guilt-free version. Just be sure to use vegan golden syrup for a truly exquisite flavor.

No matter what type of pecan pie you prefer, there’s no denying that it’s a real crowd-pleaser. So why not treat family and friends to a scrumptious slice? With all these variations, they’re sure to find one they love.