If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both timeless and impossibly simple, look no further than this Easy Southern Pecan Pie. Its buttery crust and caramel-sweet filling, dotted with crisp pecans, instantly bring a wave of nostalgia and comfort. The simplicity of the recipe means anyone can master this beautiful treat, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply when you crave a taste of Southern tradition. Easy Southern Pecan Pie is proof that a handful of pantry staples can create something truly extraordinary.

Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes an Easy Southern Pecan Pie fantastic isn’t a long ingredient list, but the quality and balance of a few humble ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, creating that irresistible harmony of gooey, crunchy, rich, and sweet every good Southern pecan pie is known for.

Unbaked 9-inch pie crust: The buttery, flaky base that holds everything together. Use homemade or store-bought for convenience.
1 cup light corn syrup: Gives the filling its signature shine and gooey texture—absolutely essential for the classic consistency.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds that deep, caramelized sweetness pecan pie lovers crave.
3 large eggs: These bind the filling together, delivering richness and structure.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Buttery goodness makes every bite more decadent and the filling extra smooth.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor, adding warmth and roundness to the pie.
1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch does wonders, balancing all that sweetness and helping the flavors truly pop.
1 1/2 cups pecan halves: The star! For maximum crunch and that unmistakable Southern taste.

How to Make Easy Southern Pecan Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish, crimping the edges with your fingers or a fork for a decorative touch. This step is simple, but that golden, fluted edge gives your Easy Southern Pecan Pie its signature homemade look.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Take a moment to marvel at how quickly the mixture transforms into a luscious, golden filling. Thoroughly combine until smooth—no streaks of egg or butter left behind!

Step 3: Coat the Pecans

Fold in your pecan halves, making sure each piece gets a generous coating of the rich, sugary mixture. This ensures that when you pour the filling into the crust, you get an even layer of pecans in every bite. You can lightly toast the pecans first for added depth and a lovely aromatic flavor, but it’s just as delicious with them straight from the bag.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Pour your filling into the prepared pie crust and spread the pecans out so there’s a nice, even layer on top. Slide your pie into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on those crust edges; if they start to brown too fast, gently cover them with foil. The pie is done when the center looks set but still jiggles just slightly—think of it like a cheesecake, with a gentle wobble.

Step 5: Cool Before Slicing

Once your kitchen smells like sweet Southern heaven and the top of the pie is golden brown, take it out and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This all-important step allows the filling to firm up perfectly, ensuring clean, beautiful slices of Easy Southern Pecan Pie when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Easy Southern Pecan Pie

Garnishes

There’s nothing quite like a slice of Easy Southern Pecan Pie crowned with a billowy scoop of whipped cream or a generous spoonful of vanilla ice cream. For a bit of flair and crunch, a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans or even a drizzle of caramel sauce creates a magical finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This pie sings all on its own, but if you’re making it part of a larger feast, it pairs beautifully with fresh berries, a fruit compote, or a mug of rich coffee. The sweetness of the pie complements the tartness of fruit, and coffee adds just the right earthy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Easy Southern Pecan Pie is always a showstopper on a classic cake stand, but for special occasions, try cutting the pie into bite-size bars for a dessert buffet, or serve mini pies in individual tart pans for a sweet personal touch at parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store your Easy Southern Pecan Pie covered in the refrigerator. The pie will keep beautifully for up to four days. You can slice off a piece straight from the fridge or let it come to room temperature for a softer texture.

Freezing

This pie freezes like a dream! Wrap individual slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Pop it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you love your Easy Southern Pecan Pie warm (who doesn’t?), place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 10-15 seconds, or warm the whole pie in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Serve with ice cream for the ultimate treat.

FAQs

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?

Absolutely! Dark corn syrup will give your Easy Southern Pecan Pie a richer color and a bolder, deeper caramel flavor. Either works, so choose based on your taste and what you have on hand.

Do I have to toast the pecans?

No, it’s not required, but toasting pecans adds a subtle nutty aroma and crunch that makes your pie extra special. If you’re short on time, using them raw is perfectly fine.

Why did my pie filling turn out runny?

This can happen if the pie is underbaked or sliced before it has cooled completely. Make sure to bake until the center is just set and let the pie cool fully to allow the filling to firm up.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Definitely! Easy Southern Pecan Pie actually improves in flavor when it sits overnight. You can bake it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and let it come to room temperature before serving.

Is this pie gluten-free?

The filling is gluten-free, but the standard pie crust contains wheat. For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pie crust and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Easy Southern Pecan Pie enough—it’s a recipe that brings comfort, celebration, and a touch of Southern hospitality to any table. Don’t wait for a special occasion; treat yourself and your loved ones to a homemade pecan pie that’s as easy as it is unforgettable!

Easy Southern Pecan Pie Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich, gooey goodness of this Easy Southern Pecan Pie. A classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. This recipe delivers a buttery, sweet filling loaded with pecans, all nestled in a flaky pie crust.

Ingredients

Scale

Pie Crust:

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Filling:

1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups pecan halves

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Crust: Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges.
Mix Filling: Whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Stir in pecans.
Fill Pie: Pour filling into crust, spread pecans evenly.
Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes until set and golden. Cover edges with foil if needed.
Cool and Serve: Let pie cool on a rack before slicing and serving.