Amy Smith'S Angel Pecan Pie
A rich, nutty pecan pie with a crunchy cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and sprinkled with chopped pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix beaten eggs and add cream of tartar.
- Beat until stiff and gradually add sugar, then fold in chopped pecans, crushed crackers, and vanilla.
- Grease a 9-inch pie pan.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pie pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool.
- Whip the cream with vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream on top of the cooled pie.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the egg whites are beaten until very stiff before adding the sugar. If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can substitute with crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers for a similar flavor. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavor of the pecans. For a twist, consider incorporating a bit of chocolate into the whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is perfect for a festive occasion or as a sweet ending to a family dinner. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream on the side and a sprig of mint for presentation. It pairs beautifully with a light dessert wine or a cup of coffee. Consider serving alongside a refreshing Crushed Pear Salad for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as the texture may change. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amy Smith'S Angel Pecan Pie contains roughly 477 calories, with 8g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer. Keep in mind that each nut has a distinct flavor, so choose one that complements your taste. Toasting the nuts beforehand can enhance their flavor and add a nice crunch to the pie.
What can I use if I don't have cream of tartar?
If you don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar. This will help stabilize the egg whites and achieve a similar effect in the recipe. However, avoid using too much as it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to add the whipped cream and pecan topping right before serving for the best texture and flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).