Not So Sweet Pecan Pie

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A rich, nutty pecan pie with a slightly less sweet profile, perfect for gatherings and those who enjoy a buttery, caramel-like filling with crunchy pecans.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup dark corn syrup
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup pecan halves or broken pieces
  • 1 unbaked pie shell

Instructions

  1. Soften the butter and cream it until smooth.
  2. Gradually add sugar and cream until fluffy.
  3. Mix in the dark corn syrup and salt.
  4. Beat the mixture well until combined.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition.
  6. Stir in the pecan halves or broken pieces.
  7. Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell.
  8. Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or a mix of both. If you prefer a nuttier taste, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the filling. Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming. This recipe can be made with a pre-made pie shell for convenience. If you're looking for more dessert ideas, check out American recipes like Strawberry Surprise French Toast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Not So Sweet Pecan Pie warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with coffee or a glass of dessert wine. For a delightful brunch, consider serving it alongside dishes like Mom'S 3 Layer Carrot Cake for a sweet spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover pecan pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm the whole pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. Let it cool slightly before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Not So Sweet Pecan Pie contains roughly 396 calories, with 1g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 933mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).

396 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 31.9g 41% DV
Carbs 27.7g 10% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 22.8g 46% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 933.3mg 41% DV
Potassium 50.9mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 94.6mg 32% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.1mcg
Vitamin C 2.8mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 16.1mg 1% DV
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 pecan pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Bake it, let it cool completely, and then store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of dark corn syrup?

If you don't have dark corn syrup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup. Both alternatives will provide a slightly different flavor, but they will work well in this recipe, maintaining the desired consistency.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. It should be slightly puffed and may jiggle just a bit, but it will firm up as it cools. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.

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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