This Bourbon Pecan Pie brings a sweet twist to your dessert table! With crunchy pecans and a hint of bourbon, it’s rich and delicious, perfect for any celebration.
Honestly, if you ask me, the bourbon adds the finest touch! I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: An unbaked 9-inch crust works best here. You can use store-bought or homemade. If you’re short on time, a graham cracker crust can be a sweet alternative!
Corn Syrup: Light corn syrup gives the pie its sticky sweetness. You can use dark corn syrup for a richer flavor or try homemade syrup with maple syrup as a replacement.
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like flavor. If you’re out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses as a substitute.
Bourbon: The bourbon adds a unique flavor that complements the pecans. If you prefer non-alcoholic, you can use vanilla extract with a splash of water or apple juice instead.
Pecan Halves: Fresh pecans are essential for that crunch! If you don’t have pecans, walnuts could work, though they will change the pie’s flavor.
How Do You Achieve a Perfectly Set Filling?
Getting the filling just right is crucial for a successful pecan pie. You want it to be gooey but not runny. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to whisk the eggs well with the other ingredients. This helps bind everything together.
- Check for doneness at around 60 minutes. The edges should be firm, while the center should still jiggle slightly—it will set more as it cools.
- If unsure, use a toothpick to test. It should come out clean or with moist crumbs, not wet filling.
- Let it cool completely before slicing to achieve clean edges. This step is key for presentation and texture.
Enjoy baking your Bourbon Pecan Pie! It’s a winner for any gathering.
How to Make Bourbon Pecan Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Time Needed:
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare everything and around 60 to 70 minutes for baking. Plus, it’s a good idea to let the pie cool completely, which takes about an hour. So, plan for around 1 hour and 15 minutes total, not including cooling time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is important so your pie crust bakes evenly.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Take your unbaked pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie plate. Make sure it fits evenly in the plate. Once it’s ready, set it aside while you make the filling.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, bourbon whiskey, and salt. Make sure everything is mixed well until it’s smooth and combined—this will make your pie filling lovely and sweet!
4. Add the Pecans:
Next, stir in the pecan halves gently until they are coated with the filling mixture. You want to ensure that every pecan gets some of that delicious mixture!
5. Pour the Filling into the Crust:
Carefully pour the pecan filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading the pecans evenly across the top with a spatula. Yummy already, right?
6. Bake the Pie:
Put your pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. It’s done when the filling is set and the crust has turned a nice golden brown. If the edges start to brown too fast, cover them with some foil to protect them.
7. Cool It Down:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This helps the filling set properly, making it easier to slice.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled, you can serve your Bourbon Pecan Pie at room temperature or slightly warm. For an extra treat, add a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Your rich and flavorful Bourbon Pecan Pie is sure to be a hit!
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought unbaked pie crust is a convenient option and will work perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the instructions for placing it in the pie plate evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
If you’d rather not use bourbon, you can replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a splash of apple cider or a mix of water with a teaspoon of vanilla can work well too!
How Do I Store Leftover Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. To reheat, warm in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.
Is It Necessary to Cool the Pie Completely Before Serving?
Yes, cooling the pie completely allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier. If you serve it warm, it might be a bit runny. Let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before digging in!
