Traditional Pecan Pie

Prep: 10 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A rich, sweet pecan pie featuring a sticky filling of eggs, sugar, and Karo syrup, complemented by crunchy pecans, perfect for family gatherings and holiday desserts.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 deep dish crust
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup dark Karo syrup
  • 2 tablespoons oleo, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups pecan halves

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, beat eggs and mix with sugar, Karo syrup, melted oleo, and vanilla extract.
  3. Stir in pecan halves until well combined.
  4. Pour the filling into the frozen deep dish crust.
  5. Bake for 50 minutes until set and golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using light or dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you're short on time, a store-bought frozen crust works well, but homemade is always best for texture. Ensure the pecans are toasted for added depth. For a twist, you can add a tablespoon of bourbon to the filling, enhancing the traditional pecan pie experience.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your traditional pecan pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with coffee or a rich dessert wine. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or as a sweet finish after a hearty dinner, such as with Cheesiest Scallop Potatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover pecan pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Pecan pie can also be enjoyed cold, making it a versatile dessert option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Traditional Pecan Pie contains roughly 364 calories, with 8g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value).

364 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.7g 15% DV
Total Fat 7.4g 10% DV
Carbs 50.2g 18% DV
Fiber 1.9g 7% DV
Sugar 8.3g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 402.7mg 18% DV
Potassium 340.6mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 88.2mg 29% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 18.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 7.1mg 8% DV
Calcium 143.7mg 11% DV
Iron 2mg 11% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 use a different type of syrup for this recipe?

Yes, while dark Karo syrup gives a classic flavor, you can substitute with light corn syrup or even maple syrup for a different taste. Just be aware that the sweetness and consistency may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly. Maple syrup will impart a unique, earthy flavor to the pie.

Is it possible to make this pie vegan?

Yes, to make a vegan pecan pie, substitute eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Use a plant-based butter alternative instead of oleo, and choose a vegan crust. Ensure that your syrup and sugar are also vegan-friendly.

How can I tell when the pecan pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the filling is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center. It should have a golden brown color on top. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture. Let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing for the best results.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →