Tarheel Pecan Pie
A rich, nutty pecan pie with a deep molasses flavor, complemented by coffee and vanilla, perfect for holiday gatherings or dessert lovers seeking classic Southern charm.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch (1-crust) pie pastry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs, molasses, light corn syrup, black coffee, melted butter, salt, and vanilla. Mix thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, toss chopped pecans with flour until coated.
- Add the pecan and flour mixture to the egg mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the filling is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light for a richer taste. If you prefer a less intense coffee flavor, you can substitute with brewed decaf coffee. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. For a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. This pie is a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie, blending flavors from American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this Tarheel Pecan Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. It pairs beautifully with coffee, making it a perfect end to a meal. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside Merry Meringues for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Cool the pie completely before storing it. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place individual slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm the entire pie in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tarheel Pecan Pie contains roughly 466 calories, with 1g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 918mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
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 store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Yes, using a store-bought pie crust is a great time-saver. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking if required, as this will help prevent a soggy bottom. This allows the filling to set properly while baking.
What can I substitute for molasses if I don't have any?
If you don't have molasses, you can substitute with an equal amount of dark brown sugar mixed with a little water or maple syrup. This will mimic the sweetness and color of molasses, although the flavor may differ slightly.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the filling is set and slightly puffed, with a firm but not overly jiggly center. You can also insert a knife into the filling; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready. Keep an eye on the crust to prevent over-browning.
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).