Pecan Icebox Pie
A creamy, nutty icebox pie featuring crisp crackers and whipped cream, perfect for warm days and gatherings, offering a delightful texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg whites until stiff.
- Fold in sugar and baking powder.
- Add broken up Ritz crackers, grated fine.
- Add vanilla and chopped pecans.
- Pour mixture into a greased and floured 9-inch pie plate.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes.
- Allow the pie to cool.
- Whip the cream until stiff.
- Add sugar and vanilla to the whipped cream.
- Spread the whipped cream on the cooled pie.
- Sprinkle with coconut.
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks before folding in the other ingredients. If you want a richer flavor, consider using crushed graham crackers instead of Ritz for a slight variation. Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon to the whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor. This pie pairs beautifully with Cherry Icebox Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pecan Icebox Pie chilled, garnished with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for an elegant touch. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings. Consider serving alongside Saute Green Beans for a balanced meal, or offer a selection of fruit to complement the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pie can last up to 3 days, but for best texture, consume it within 1-2 days. Avoid freezing, as the cream topping may not thaw well. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if desired, but it's best served chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Icebox Pie contains roughly 459 calories, with 12g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (101% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 11g 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 in the pie?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Each nut will bring a different flavor and texture to the pie, so choose one that you enjoy. Just chop them finely to ensure they blend well into the mixture.
What can I use instead of whipping cream?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can use whipped topping or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, but it'll still be delicious. For dairy-free options, coconut cream works well.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when it is set in the center and has a light golden color on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Allow it to cool completely before adding the whipped cream topping.
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).