Southern Butter Pecan Pie 🥧✨
A rich, creamy, and nutty Southern classic, Butter Pecan Pie is a luxurious dessert that captures the essence of homemade comfort and sweet nostalgia. Every bite melts in your mouth with a buttery filling, roasted pecans, and a tender, flaky crust — a dessert beloved in Southern kitchens for generations.
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🕰️ History of Butter Pecan Pie
The roots of Butter Pecan Pie trace back to the American South, where pecans were abundant and treasured. The recipe evolved from the famous Southern Pecan Pie but with a creamier twist — blending butter, brown sugar, and toasted pecans into a silky custard base. The flavor became so iconic that “butter pecan” later inspired ice creams, cakes, and candies throughout the United States.
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🧈 Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
– 2–3 tbsp cold water
– ½ tsp salt
For the Filling:
– 1 cup pecan halves (toasted and chopped)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup brown sugar
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– ½ cup melted butter
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1 tbsp cornstarch
– ¼ tsp salt
For Garnish:
– Extra toasted pecans
– A drizzle of caramel sauce (optional)
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🍳 Instructions & Methods
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
1. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt.
2. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
4. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out and fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and flute the edges.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until fragrant.
3. Let them cool, then roughly chop.
Step 3: Make the Filling
1. In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over low heat until smooth.
2. Whisk in cream and vanilla. Let cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until combined.
4. Slowly add the butter mixture while whisking.
5. Stir in toasted pecans.
Step 4: Bake
1. Pour the mixture into the prepared crust.
2. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Cool completely before slicing.
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🍯 Formation
Once cooled, the pie sets into a creamy, mousse-like texture — the butter and cream create a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth consistency, while the toasted pecans add crunch and depth. The golden crust gives the perfect buttery contrast to the soft interior.
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🌿 Benefits
– Pecans are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, supporting heart health.
– Butter and cream provide essential energy and add to the rich, satisfying flavor.
– Homemade versions are free from artificial preservatives or corn syrup.
– Comfort food for emotional well-being — perfect for family gatherings or holidays.
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💖 Lovers of Butter Pecan Pie
Butter Pecan Pie lovers are those who adore Southern comfort desserts — people who appreciate balance between crunch and cream. This pie is often shared at Thanksgiving, family reunions, or Sunday suppers, symbolizing togetherness and sweet indulgence.
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🧮 Nutrition (per slice)
– Calories: ~420 kcal
– Fat: 27g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Protein: 5g
– Fiber: 2g
– Sugar: 28g
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🍰 Conclusion
Southern Butter Pecan Pie is a masterpiece of texture and taste — nutty, buttery, creamy, and deeply satisfying. It’s more than a dessert; it’s a reminder of home, warmth, and shared joy. Perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of strong coffee.
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💞 For the Lovers
To all dessert lovers, especially those who find joy in old-fashioned recipes with a modern creamy twist — this pie is made for you. Each slice tells a story of love, family, and tradition baked into buttery perfection.
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Would you like me to make a no-bake Butter Pecan Pie version next (a chilled creamy one with whipped topping)?