Thanksgiving Pecan Pie is a rich, nutty classic that’s as much a part of the holiday as turkey and stuffing. I remember my aunt baking it every year—the sweet, gooey filling bubbling under a crunchy layer of toasted pecans. The smell of caramelized sugar and butter filled the house, and the first slice always disappeared fast. With its buttery crust and indulgent filling, this pie is the perfect sweet ending to a Thanksgiving feast.
Groceries
Ingredients
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup packed brown sugar
3 large eggs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp salt
2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp edges.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in pecans and pour mixture into the prepared crust.
- Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the center is slightly puffed.
- Cool completely before slicing.
- Serve plain or with whipped cream.
Substitutions
Replace corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness.
Use chopped pecans instead of halves for easier slicing.
Swap pecans with walnuts for a variation.
For a bourbon twist, add 1 tbsp bourbon to the filling.
Equipment
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
9-inch pie dish
Oven
Storage
Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or enjoy chilled.
Top Tips
Use fresh pecans for the best flavor.
Don’t overbake—filling should jiggle slightly in the center.
Toast pecans beforehand for extra nuttiness.
Let the pie cool fully before slicing to set properly.
FAQs
Can I make pecan pie ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Why is my pecan pie runny?
It wasn’t baked long enough—extend baking until the filling is set.
Can I make it without corn syrup?
Yes, substitute with maple syrup or a mix of brown sugar and honey.
Should pecan pie be served warm or cold?
Both work—warm with whipped cream or cold straight from the fridge.