Decadent Paula Deen Pecan Pie Recipe

Mom’s Sweet Secret: Paula Deen Pecan Pie Recipe Magic

Paula Deen’s pecan pie captures the soul of Southern dessert mastery with its irresistible blend of sweet, nutty decadence.

Golden-brown layers whisper promises of comfort and tradition in every sumptuous bite.

Caramelized sugars dance with crunchy pecans, creating a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to grandma’s kitchen.

Crisp, flaky crust cradles a silky filling that speaks of generations of culinary love.

Each slice tells a story of family gatherings and cherished moments shared around the dinner table.

Homemade magic transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary experience that warms hearts and delights taste buds.

This recipe will become your new favorite go-to dessert that sparks joy and creates delicious memories.

Quick Recipe Overview

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 484 kcal

Servings: 8

Pecan Pie Ingredients from Paula Deen’s Kitchen

For Pie Crust Base:
  • Pecans: Select fresh, crisp nuts with a rich golden-brown color and no rancid smell.
  • Pre-Baked Pie Crust: Choose a sturdy, uniform crust that can hold the rich filling without crumbling.
For Custard Mixture:
  • Light Corn Syrup, Brown Sugar: Opt for high-quality, pure ingredients that provide deep, complex sweetness.
  • Eggs: Pick large, fresh eggs with bright, firm yolks for smooth texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Seek pure, authentic extract with intense aromatic qualities.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Choose freshly ground, fragrant cinnamon for bold, warm flavor.
  • Melted Butter: Use high-fat, unsalted butter for rich, creamy consistency.
For Caramel Sauce:
  • Brown Sugar, Butter, Heavy Cream: Select premium ingredients with high fat content for luxurious, silky sauce.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Use freshly ground spice for vibrant, warm undertones.
  • Chopped Pecans: Pick plump, crunchy pecan pieces to enhance sauce texture and flavor.

Baking Tools Needed for Pecan Pie

  • Mixing bowl: Large, sturdy vessel for blending custard ingredients smoothly.
  • Whisk: Essential tool for creating silky, lump-free custard mixture.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements for perfect ingredient ratios.
  • Saucepan: Medium-sized pan for crafting rich caramel sauce.
  • Wooden spoon: Helpful for stirring caramel while cooking.
  • Pie dish: Pre-baked crust ready for pecan and custard filling.
  • Oven: Preheated to 190°C/375°F for baking the pie.
  • Cooling rack: Allows pie to cool evenly and set properly.
  • Sharp knife: For clean, beautiful pie slicing.
  • Spatula: Perfect for drizzling warm caramel sauce over the pie.

Step-by-Step Pecan Pie Directions

Step-by-Step Pecan Pie Directions

Whip Up A Dreamy Pecan Pie

Unlock the secrets to a mouthwatering pecan pie that’ll make taste buds dance with delight!

  • Prep Your Baking Station

Warm up the oven to a cozy 190°C, creating the perfect environment for pie magic. Grab your pre-baked pie crust and sprinkle a generous layer of pecans across the bottom, setting the stage for deliciousness.

  • Mix The Luscious Filling

Grab a mixing bowl and transform simple ingredients into a silky dream. Whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and melted butter until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. Pour this liquid gold over the pecan-covered crust, letting it snuggle into every crevice.

  • Bake And Transform

Slide the pie into the heated oven and let the magic happen. Watch as the filling puffs up and the edges set firmly over 30 minutes. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that promises pure comfort.

  • Create Caramel Companion Sauce

While the pie cools, craft a decadent caramel sauce. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, cream, cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Stir constantly over medium heat until the sugar melts and transforms into a silky river of sweetness.

  • Serve And Celebrate

Once the pie has cooled completely, drizzle the warm caramel sauce generously on top. Slice into this masterpiece and watch everyone’s eyes light up with pure joy. Your pecan pie adventure is complete!

Flavor Tips for Southern Pecan Pie

  • Toasting Pecans: Enhance nutty flavors by lightly toasting pecans in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes before adding to the pie crust, releasing deeper, richer undertones.
  • Swap Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or golden syrup instead of corn syrup for a unique twist on the classic pecan pie flavor profile.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the pie up to two days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to develop and intensify overnight.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil and use non-dairy cream alternatives to create a delicious vegan-friendly version of this classic dessert.

How to Serve a Slice of Pecan Pie

  • Elevate with Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a fluffy cloud of fresh whipped cream, adding a light and creamy contrast to the rich pecan pie.
  • Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream alongside the warm pie, creating a delightful temperature and flavor sensation.
  • Garnish with Extra Pecans: Sprinkle some toasted pecan pieces on top for added crunch and a beautiful nutty presentation.
  • Create Breakfast Transformation: Enjoy leftover slices warmed up with a morning coffee for an indulgent breakfast treat that feels like a special occasion.

Store and Reheat Paula Deen’s Pecan Pie

  • Preserve Pie Perfection: Store pecan pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, keeping its crisp crust and rich flavors intact.
  • Refrigerate with Care: Extend the pie's life by refrigerating for 4-5 days. Cover loosely with plastic wrap to prevent moisture buildup and maintain its delicate texture.
  • Freeze for Future Delight: Wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze up to 2 months for a make-ahead dessert that tastes freshly baked.
  • Revive Chilled Slice: Bring refrigerated or frozen pie to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Warm slightly in the oven at 150°C for 10 minutes to restore that just-baked warmth and crispness.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Decadent Paula Deen Pecan Pie Recipe

Decadent Paula Deen Pecan Pie Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Southern charm shines through this paula deen pecan pie, brimming with buttery richness and sweet caramel notes. Pecans from Georgia create a classic dessert that welcomes guests with warm hospitality.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (10 inch) pre-baked pie crust
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 ½ cups brown sugar
  • 1 ¼ cups pecan pieces
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 10 tbsps (6 + 4) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat Preparation: Set oven to 190°C / 375°F, creating an ideal baking environment for the pecan pie.
  2. Pecan Foundation: Distribute pecan pieces evenly across the pre-baked pie crust, covering the entire surface with a nutty base layer.
  3. Custard Composition: Whisk light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl until achieving a silky, uniform mixture that seamlessly blends all components.
  4. Filling Integration: Pour the custard mixture over the pecan layer, ensuring complete and even coverage within the pie shell.
  5. Baking Transformation: Bake for approximately 30 minutes, watching for the filling to rise and set around the edges, indicating perfect doneness.
  6. Cooling and Setting: Remove from oven and allow the pie to cool completely, which helps stabilize the structure and intensify the flavor profile.
  7. Caramel Sauce Creation: Combine brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and chopped pecans in a saucepan, crafting a rich, aromatic topping.
  8. Sauce Refinement: Simmer the caramel mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning and develop a smooth, glossy consistency.
  9. Final Flourish: Once the pie reaches room temperature, drizzle the warm cinnamon pecan caramel sauce generously across the surface, adding a decadent finishing touch.
  10. Serving Suggestion: Present the pie as a luxurious dessert, showcasing its complex layers of sweet, nutty, and aromatic flavors.

Notes

  • Oven Temperature Matters: Precisely preheat to 375°F for even baking and perfect golden-brown crust.
  • Distribute Pecans Evenly: Spread pecans uniformly across pie crust to ensure consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
  • Whisk Thoroughly: Mix custard ingredients until completely smooth to prevent lumpy or grainy filling.
  • Cooling is Crucial: Allow pie to cool completely at room temperature for firm, clean slices and enhanced flavor development.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 484
  • Sugar: 51 g
  • Sodium: 255 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 122 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star