If you are on the hunt for a dessert that brings holiday warmth and rich flavor to your table, this Caramel Pecan Pie Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a flaky, buttery crust cradling a luscious blend of melted caramel, buttery pecans, and a hint of vanilla that sets just perfectly when baked. Each bite carries a delightful combination of gooey caramel sweetness and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any festive gathering or cozy night in. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cool it down with a dollop of whipped cream, this pie offers that nostalgic taste everyone loves, with a caramel twist that elevates it to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity – just a handful of carefully chosen ingredients that come together to create a marvel of texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy richness of butter and caramel to the natural crunch and earthiness of pecans, making every bite perfect.
- 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust: The buttery base that holds all the luscious filling together.
- 36 individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped: These melt into a smooth, velvety caramel sauce that gives the pie its signature sweetness.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and a silky finish to the caramel blend.
- ¼ cup milk: Helps create the perfect creamy texture for the caramel filling.
- ¾ cup white sugar: Provides sweetness while balancing the rich flavors.
- 3 large eggs: They give structure and help the filling set just right.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the depth of flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Just enough to heighten all the sweet and nutty notes.
- 1 cup pecan halves: The star nut, offering that satisfying crunch and a buttery crunch.
How to Make Caramel Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
First things first, get all your ingredients ready to go because this pie comes together best with everything at your fingertips. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to make sure it’s nice and hot when your pie is ready for baking.
Step 2: Craft the Caramel Mixture
In a saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels, unsalted butter, and milk. Stir this mixture constantly for about 10 to 15 minutes until the caramels have fully melted and the blend is silky smooth with no lumps. This step is key because the creamy caramel is what takes this pie to a whole new level of indulgence.
Step 3: Mix the Filling Ingredients
While the caramel cools slightly, whisk together the white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt in a large bowl until fully combined. Slowly pour in your warm caramel mixture, stirring continuously to integrate all the flavors beautifully. Finally, fold in the pecan halves, ensuring they’re evenly distributed so that every slice will have just the right amount of crunch.
Step 4: Fill the Pie Crust and Bake
Pour the luscious filling into your unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly to avoid any bubbles or holes. Slide the pie onto the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is a lovely golden brown and the filling has set firmly but still holds a little jiggle at the center.
Step 5: Cool and Set
Once baked, transfer the pie to a wire rack and let it cool for approximately 15 minutes. This resting period allows the filling to firm up to the perfect sliceable consistency without losing any of that luxurious gooey texture.
How to Serve Caramel Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Caramel Pecan Pie Recipe even further, consider a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce over the top. Freshly whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream are classic companions that add coolness and contrast to the warm, nutty richness of the pie.
Side Dishes
This pie is indulgent enough to be the star, but for a complete dessert course, pair it with a bright, lightly tart fruit salad or a simple cup of hot coffee or spiced tea. The acidity in the fruit cuts through the sweetness beautifully, while warm drinks complement the comforting flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the usual plate by serving individual slices in pretty glass bowls with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of toasted pecans. For a festive twist, add a candied pecan on top or incorporate edible gold leaf for an extra touch of elegance that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Caramel pecan pie stores wonderfully in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep the crust from becoming soggy. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect if you want to prepare ahead for a party or enjoy the leftovers slowly.
Freezing
If you’d like to enjoy this scrumptious pie later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to a month frozen without compromising the flavor or texture. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To bring your Caramel Pecan Pie Recipe back to life after chilling or freezing, warm it gently in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore that melt-in-your-mouth texture and bring out the caramel’s rich aroma.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using a pre-made pie crust is a great time-saver and works perfectly with this recipe. Just be sure to pick a high-quality crust for the best buttery flavor and flakiness.
Are there any substitutions for pecans?
Yes, walnuts can be used as a substitute if pecans aren’t your favorite or aren’t available. They provide a similar texture and a mild nuttiness that complements the caramel filling nicely.
Can I make this pie dairy-free?
To make this pie dairy-free, swap the butter for a non-dairy margarine and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Just be mindful that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Is it best to serve this pie warm or cold?
Both ways are delightful! Warm Caramel Pecan Pie melts in your mouth, especially with vanilla ice cream, while cold slices offer a firmer texture perfect for cutting and serving without any mess.
How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
To keep the crust crisp, consider blind baking it for a few minutes before adding the filling, or brush the crust with a thin layer of egg white to create a moisture barrier.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Caramel Pecan Pie Recipe that captures the very spirit of comfort and celebration in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a big holiday feast or wanting to treat yourself on a quiet evening, this pie offers both simplicity and grandeur. I encourage you to give it a try and see how this caramel-infused southern classic becomes your new favorite dessert to share with family and friends.
PrintCaramel Pecan Pie Recipe
This Caramel Pecan Pie combines buttery caramel candies with crunchy pecans in a rich, flavorful filling nestled in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for the Thanksgiving table or any festive occasion, this classic dessert can be enjoyed warm or cold and pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 (9 inch) unbaked pie crust
Filling
- 36 individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients needed for the caramel pecan pie. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature while you prepare the filling.
- Melt Caramel Mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels, unsalted butter, and milk. Stir frequently as the mixture melts and becomes smooth, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once melted, remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Pie Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined. Gradually pour in the warm caramel mixture while stirring continuously, then fold in the pecan halves to evenly distribute the nuts throughout the filling.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the prepared caramel pecan filling into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Bake until the pastry crust is golden brown and the filling is set. The pie filling should be firm to the touch but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let it cool and set for about 15 minutes before serving. You can enjoy it warm or allow it to cool completely for a firmer texture. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use individually wrapped caramels as they melt smoothly to create a rich caramel flavor in the filling.
- Be sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly on low heat to prevent burning or sticking to the saucepan.
- Letting the pie cool slightly helps the filling set perfectly for clean slices.
- This pie is delicious served warm but also tastes great when chilled.
- Adjust baking time slightly if using a glass or ceramic pie dish as these may conduct heat differently.
