Caramel Pecan Delight Pie
Desserts can often be delicious, but a Caramel Pecan Delight Pie is nothing short of a lovingly decadent creation. This heavenly pie brings together a buttery crust and thrice the amount of a rich caramel filling, scattering it with toasted pecans and striking that sweet-and-crunchy balance. You may be throwing a dinner party or just in need of a fancy treat, this pie is sure to steal the spotlight.
If you’re ready to wow your friends and family, or just want to treat yourself, this comprehensive recipe will guide you through all you need to know to nail it, right down to the minutiae.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: You don’t need to be a master baker to pull this off. It employs common ingredients and simple steps to guarantee success.
- Lush and Decadent: With its creamy caramel and toasty, crunchy pecans, this dessert gives you a textured and savory extravagance.
- Perfect for Holidays: with its rich, nutty flavor, it’s a great addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas or any party.
- Adaptable: Adjust the ingredients up or down or offer it with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for a bit of panache.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 standard 9-inch pie 1x
Ingredients
To ensure success, gather all your ingredients beforehand:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 3–4 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Caramel Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups roughly chopped pecans, toasted
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions
Step by Step Instructions for Caramel Pecan Delight Pie
Step 1: Make the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. Add chilled butter, cutting it into the flour with a pastry cutter or your hands until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the egg yolk, then add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes or so.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough in circles to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Lightly press the dough into the dish, cutting off the excess. Dock the base with a fork to avoid bubbling.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
- Arrange the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet, and toast them in the oven for 8–10 minutes. This helps to improve their flavor and their crunch. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Filling
- Melt sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring often to promote even caramelization until amber.
- Slowly whisk in butter until fully combined.
- Gradually add in the heavy cream while whisking. Use caution, the mixture can bubble vigorously.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then remove from the heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Scatter half the toasted pecans evenly over the cooled pie crust.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the nuts, covering them as evenly as possible.
- Tower the rest of the pecans on top.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
- Bake the pie at 350°F for 20 minutes. Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the caramel to solidify properly.
Notes
How to Serve
Caramel Pecan Delight Pie is great warm or at room temp. Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to make it extra special. Even a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of cinnamon can add visual and flavour appeal.
Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a festive garnish or add a sprig of mint.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Prep This Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the pie a day ahead. Just refrigerate it and bring it to room temperature or give it a gentle reheat before serving.
2. Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel?
Yes, if you’re short on time, quality store-bought caramel works in place of homemade caramel.
3. What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Soaring to bite, wrapping the pie snugly in plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerating for several days 3, possibly even 4. For longer storage, freeze slices individually, thaw when ready to serve.
4. Can I Use Other Nuts Instead of Pecans?
If pecans aren’t your thing, this recipe is also great made with walnuts, almonds or a mix of nuts.
5. Is There a Vegan Version?
Yes! Replace the butter with plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a vegan pie crust.
Make Dessert a Celebration
Caramel Pecan Delight Pie has all the hallmarks of an unforgettable dessert, with its rich caramel and nutty pecan goodness. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or a quiet evening, this pie will put a smile on your face and everyone surrounding you.
Just take your ingredients, preheat the oven, and you are ready to have a bite of heaven. Happy baking