Step by Step Instructions for Caramel Pecan Delight Pie

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
2. 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.
3. Stir in the egg yolk, then add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes or so.
5. 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

1. Melt sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring often to promote even caramelization until amber.
2. Slowly whisk in butter until fully combined.
3. Gradually add in the heavy cream while whisking. Use caution, the mixture can bubble vigorously.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then remove from the heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Scatter half the toasted pecans evenly over the cooled pie crust.
2. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the nuts, covering them as evenly as possible.
3. 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.