How to Make the Perfect Southern Pecan Pie for the Holidays

When it comes to classic holiday desserts, the Southern pecan pie reigns supreme. It’s rich, buttery, nutty, and oh-so-sweet — everything you want in a holiday dessert. From Thanksgiving to Christmas, this pie has earned its place as a family-favorite treat that never goes out of style.

What makes a perfect Southern pecan pie? It’s all about the balance of that gooey, caramel-like filling and the crisp, crunchy pecan topping — all sitting in a golden, flaky pie crust. Whether you’re a seasoned pie pro or a first-timer, this step-by-step guide will have you baking like a Southern grandma in no time.

Ready to wow your family and friends with a pecan pie so good they’ll be begging for seconds? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Recipe

• Easy Ingredients: No fancy ingredients required — just pantry staples!
• Rich, Sweet Flavor: The caramel-like filling is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Perfect for Holidays: A must-have dessert for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering.
• Beginner-Friendly: Simple instructions make this a foolproof recipe, even for beginners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Flaky Pie Crust (Homemade or store-bought)

• 1 1/4 cups (156g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3-4 tbsp ice water (add as needed)

You can also use a store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time, but homemade makes it extra special!

For the Pecan Pie Filling

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) whole pecans (or chopped, depending on preference)

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Vanilla ice cream
• Caramel drizzle

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• 9-inch pie dish
• Rolling pin (if making homemade crust)
• Pastry brush

How to Make the Perfect Southern Pecan Pie (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Flaky Pie Crust

If you’re making a homemade crust, here’s how to do it:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms.
4. Form the dough into a disc, cover in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface to a 12-inch circle.
6. Gently transfer the dough into your pie dish, letting the edges hang over. Trim and crimp the edges as desired.

Pro Tip: Keep your ingredients as cold as possible for a flaky crust. Cold butter = flaky perfection!

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla, and salt.
2. Whisk until fully combined and smooth. This mixture will form the gooey, caramel-like base of your pecan pie.

Pro Tip: Make sure to whisk until fully smooth, but don’t overbeat the eggs, as too much air can make the filling rise too high and crack.

Step 4: Assemble the Pecan Pie

1. Place your 1 1/2 cups of pecans into the pie crust. You can arrange them whole for a decorative look or use chopped pecans if you prefer a more “filled” look.
2. Pour the prepared filling mixture over the pecans. As it bakes, the pecans will rise to the top to create that classic crunchy pecan layer.

Pro Tip: For a more elegant presentation, place whole pecans in a neat circular pattern on top of the filling.

Step 5: Bake the Pecan Pie

1. Bake the pie at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes.
2. Check the pie around the 30-minute mark. If the crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
3. The pie is done when the center is just slightly jiggly but set. The pie will harden up as it cools.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

1. Let the pie cool at room temperature for 2 hours to allow the filling to fully set.
2. Slice and serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel.

Pro Tip: Letting the pie cool completely is essential for that perfect, sliceable texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it 1-2 days in advance. Store it at room temperature (covered) or in the fridge if you prefer it chilled.

2. How do I know when my pecan pie is done?

The pie is done when the center is slightly jiggly but not liquidy. It will firm up as it cools. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

3. Can I freeze pecan pie?

Yes! Bake the pie, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

4. Why did my pecan pie filling not set?

This could be due to underbaking. Make sure the pie bakes for at least 50-60 minutes and that the center is no longer liquidy but just slightly jiggly.

5. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?

Yes! Dark corn syrup gives a richer, deeper flavor, while light corn syrup creates a milder, classic taste. You can also use a mix of both!

Serving Suggestions

• Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy, and the perfect balance to the rich filling.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess contrasts the warm, gooey filling beautifully.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle it over the pie for an extra indulgent touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

(Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients.)

Time to Bake the Perfect Southern Pecan Pie!

With its crunchy pecan top, gooey filling, and buttery crust, Southern pecan pie is a holiday classic that never goes out of style. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this pie is guaranteed to be a showstopper.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your pecans, and bake a pie that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. We promise — once you taste it, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!

If you loved this guide, share it with friends and family. And if you have any questions, drop them in the comments — we’d love to help you bake your best pecan pie yet!