Southern Pecan Praline Pie

The pecan pie is a quintessential Southern dessert, often making appearances at Thanksgiving and other holiday gatherings. It is deeply rooted in Southern history, dating back to when European settlers first encountered the pecan through Native American tribes. Over the years, the pecan pie has evolved, with the praline variant emerging as a popular twist. Combining the sweet, caramel-like flavor of traditional pralines with the rich, nutty taste of pecans, this variation embodies Southern flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

• Sugar - 1 cup
• Corn Syrup - 1 cup
• Unsalted Butter - 1/2 cup
• Eggs - 3 large
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Pecans - 1 1/2 cups chopped
• Brown Sugar - 1/2 cup
• Heavy Cream - 1/4 cup
• Pie Crust - 1 pre-made or homemade

Preparation

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As your oven is warming up, place the pie crust into a pie dish, crimping the edges to secure it. In a separate pan, melt the butter over low heat until fully liquefied, allowing it to slightly cool after melting.

Making the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, corn syrup, and brown sugar until you have a smooth mixture. Next, add in the eggs one by one, stirring well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing until everything is well combined.

Assembling the Pie

Spoon the filling mixture into the prepared pie crust. Evenly distribute the chopped pecans over the top of the filling. The pecans will float to the top as the pie bakes, creating a lovely crust.

Baking the Pie

Carefully place the pie on the center rack of the oven and allow it to bake for approximately 50 to 60 minutes. To avoid over-browning, you can cover the edges of the crust with a pie shield or aluminum foil. Check the pie periodically by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the pie is fully cooked. Using a cooking timer can help ensure precision in baking duration.

Serving Suggestions

The Southern Pecan Praline Pie is best enjoyed when it has completely cooled down. This allows the filling to set firmly, resulting in neat slices. For additional decadence, pair the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Share this delightful treat with friends and family, savoring each bite of this historic Southern classic.