Humboltd Pecan Pie

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Humboldt Pecan Pie offers a rich, creamy filling with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for holiday gatherings or any dessert craving for a sweet, nutty treat.

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Ingredients

  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon grated lemon rind
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 baked pie shell, cooled
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Mix the egg yolks, sour cream, cornstarch, grated lemon rind, and salt in the top of a double boiler and cook over boiling water until thick, stirring constantly.
  2. Pour the cooked filling into the cooled baked pie shell.
  3. Beat the egg whites until stiff, gradually adding the brown sugar.
  4. Fold in the chopped pecans into the egg whites.
  5. Spread the pecan mixture over the filling in the pie shell.
  6. Bake at 425°F until lightly browned.
  7. Refrigerate several hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve the best texture, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature before beating them until stiff peaks form. If you want to substitute, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a tangy flavor. For a richer pie, consider adding a splash of bourbon to the pecan mixture. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Humboltd Pecan Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with the lightness of a Strawberry Glazed Pie. For a complete dessert table, consider adding a slice of Banana Parfait Pie alongside for a variety of flavors and textures.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Humboltd Pecan Pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It can last for up to 4 days. For best results, serve chilled directly from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Humboltd Pecan Pie contains roughly 238 calories, with 3g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 943mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).

238 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.2g 6% DV
Total Fat 2.2g 3% DV
Carbs 51.3g 19% DV
Fiber 1.8g 6% DV
Sugar 3.4g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 943.4mg 41% DV
Potassium 156.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 48.7mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 18.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 11.4mg 13% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 55.3mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Tree nuts

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 make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, this pie can be made a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely before refrigerating. This will allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set properly. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

What can I use instead of pecans?

If you prefer, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Both nuts will provide a great crunch, but keep in mind that the taste will differ. Ensure that any substitute nuts are chopped and toasted for the best flavor.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the top is lightly browned and the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You can also insert a toothpick into the filling; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.

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).

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