Old South Pecan Pie

Prep: 10 min Cook: 50 min Cuisine: American

A classic Southern pecan pie featuring rich, sweet filling with crunchy pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings or comforting desserts that delight nut lovers.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup dark Karo syrup
  • 1 cup pecans
  • 3 to 4 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Beat the eggs slightly.
  2. Add sugar, syrup, salt, nuts, and vanilla to the eggs.
  3. Pour the mixture into an unbaked pie shell.
  4. Bake in a slow oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50 minutes.
  5. Pecans will float to the top and brown if baked slowly.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also substitute half of the pecans with walnuts for a different texture. If you prefer a denser filling, use 4 eggs instead of 3. Ensure the pie crust is chilled before filling to prevent sogginess. Baking the pie on a lower rack can help achieve an even bake, as seen in many American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

This Old South Pecan Pie pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or a glass of sweet tea for a classic Southern experience. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s also delightful when served with Spiced Mixed Nuts as an appetizer.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to 2 months. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring the crust remains crisp.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old South Pecan Pie contains roughly 940 calories, with 11g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

940 kcal 47% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.1g 22% DV
Total Fat 57.9g 74% DV
Carbs 68.6g 25% DV
Fiber 7.2g 26% DV
Sugar 11.5g 23% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 417mg 18% DV
Potassium 721.1mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 154.8mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.1mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 196.2mg 15% DV
Iron 3.2mg 18% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains 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 make this pecan pie a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. This can help the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious when served the next day.

What should I do if my pie crust is overbaking?

If you notice your pie crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning. This allows the filling to bake properly without compromising the crust's texture.

Can I substitute the Karo syrup with something else?

Yes, you can substitute dark Karo syrup with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that this may change the sweetness level and texture slightly, so adjust accordingly.

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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