Description
A luscious, creamy pie topped with toasted pecans, combining a smooth custard filling with a crunchy nut topping. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pie Shell:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Preparing the Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Add the egg yolks and about 1 cup of milk, whisking until smooth.
- Gradually add the remaining milk while continuing to whisk.
- Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and boiling, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 2 hours.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the chilled custard.
- Pour into the prepared pie shell and chill.
- Making the Topping:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat until butter is melted and mixture is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in pecan halves until evenly coated.
- Spread evenly over the chilled pie filling.
- Baking:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until topping is bubbly and pecans are toasted.
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes
For best results, chill the pie for at least 4 hours before serving. If the topping becomes too thick while preparing, warm it slightly until pourable. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 40g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Protein: 7g
