Southern Honey Pecan Pie

This decadent pie is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, featuring the natural sweetness of honey paired with crunchy pecans. The smooth filling and buttery crust make it a perfect dessert for holidays or any special occasion.


Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the honey.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling to the perfect consistency.
  • 3 large eggs, lightly beaten – Provides structure and a rich texture.
  • 1 cup honey – The star ingredient, lending natural sweetness and depth.
  • 1/3 cup butter, melted and slightly cooled – Adds richness and a velvety texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm note.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds crunch and nutty flavor throughout the pie.

For the Crust:

  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pastry shell – Use a store-bought shell or make your own for extra flavor.

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup pecan halves – For a decorative and professional finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

If you’re using a homemade crust:

  • Roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
  • Gently press it into the pan, trim the edges, and crimp for a decorative touch.
  • Refrigerate the crust for 15–20 minutes to prevent shrinking during baking.

2. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. Mix the Filling:

  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour until evenly combined. This prevents clumps in the filling.
  2. In a larger bowl, combine the eggs, honey, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
  4. Fold in the chopped pecans to ensure an even distribution.

4. Assemble the Pie:

  1. Pour the filling into the unbaked pastry shell, spreading it evenly.
  2. Arrange the pecan halves around the edges and center of the pie for an attractive presentation.

5. Bake the Pie:

  1. Cover the edges of the crust loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  2. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Serve:

  • Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to fully set before slicing.
  • Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Honey Variety: Use a high-quality honey for the best flavor. Clover or wildflower honey works well for a balanced taste, while darker honey, like buckwheat, will add a deeper, more robust flavor.
  • Prevent Overbaking: Keep a close eye during the final minutes of baking to ensure the filling doesn’t overcook or crack.
  • Make Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature or refrigerated, covered loosely with plastic wrap.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Southern Honey Pecan Pie with:

  • Freshly brewed coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
  • Spiced whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for added flair.
  • Salted caramel drizzle for a luxurious touch.

This Southern classic is sure to be a hit, combining the comforting flavors of honey and pecans in a pie that’s both beautiful and delicious! 🥧✨

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