Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the heart of New Orleans? This recipe isn't just a pecan pie; it's a journey. Inspired by the legendary Commanders Palace, known for its exquisite Southern cuisine, this recipe delivers a pecan pie that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this homemade pecan pie recipe will become your new go-to for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Get ready to experience the magic of a truly unforgettable pecan pie!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Sweetness
This recipe uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create an exceptional pie. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For the Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ¼ cup (60ml) ice water
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For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups (198g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (150g) light corn syrup
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (150g) pecan halves
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Pecan Pie Perfection
Let's embark on creating this delicious pie together!
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Blind bake for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Making the Filling:
- Whisk wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add pecans: Gently stir in the pecan halves.
- Pour and bake: Pour the filling into the pre-baked pie crust.
- Bake to perfection: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not runny filling.
- Cool completely: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips & Variations for an Exceptional Pecan Pie
- For a richer crust: Use a combination of butter and shortening.
- Add a touch of bourbon: For an adult twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of bourbon to the filling.
- Use different nuts: Substitute a portion of the pecans with walnuts or other nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free pie crust mix.
- For a crispier crust: Parbake the crust for 20 minutes before adding the filling.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Fat: 25-30g
- Sugar: 40-50g
This information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This Commanders Palace-inspired pecan pie is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and careful technique. It’s a recipe that will undoubtedly impress your friends and family, leaving them wanting more. Enjoy every delicious bite!