Rich and Buttery Mississippi Pecan Pie Recipe You’ll Love

When you think of Southern desserts, pecan pie is likely one of the first things that comes to mind, and there’s a good reason why! This dessert is rich, sweet, and packed with crunchy pecans that create a perfect contrast to its gooey, buttery filling. The Mississippi Pecan Pie is a classic that’s been served for generations in the South, especially during holidays and family gatherings. With every bite, you experience the toasty richness of pecans complemented by a smooth, molasses-like filling that’s utterly irresistible.

Photo byNick Davies

Growing up in Mississippi, pecan pie was always on the table for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it wasn’t just reserved for special occasions. My grandmother would bake one just because! Over the years, I’ve tweaked her recipe to give it a richer, more caramelized flavor while still preserving that signature Mississippi charm. If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the essence of the South, this pecan pie will do just that!

Pecan pie is beloved across the U.S., but it has strong roots in the Deep South, where pecan trees are abundant. Mississippi, in particular, has a long history with pecans, as the state's warm climate creates the perfect environment for these trees to thrive. In fact, pecans were once a vital part of the state’s economy! Many Mississippi families, including mine, would gather pecans right from their backyard to make pies, candies, and other treats.

This recipe showcases the best of Mississippi’s pecan heritage, blending tradition with a few modern twists for the perfect homemade dessert. Don’t forget to top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups whole pecans
• 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare your 9-inch pie crust, either homemade or store-bought, and place it in a pie dish.
2. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
3. Add the pecans: Stir in the pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. Fill the pie crust: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust. Arrange extra pecans on top if you want an eye-catching finish.
5. Bake the pie for 50 to 55 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. The top should be golden brown, and the crust should be fully baked.
6. Cool and serve: Let the pie cool for at least two hours before serving. This helps the filling set completely. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Variations and Tips:

• Chocolate Pecan Pie: For a rich twist, add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling.
• Bourbon Pecan Pie: Incorporate a tablespoon or two of bourbon into the filling for an extra layer of depth and warmth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

For best results, be sure to use fresh, high-quality pecans. Toasting the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling can also enhance their flavor, giving your pie a deeper, nuttier taste.

Serving Suggestions:

This Mississippi Pecan Pie pairs perfectly with classic Southern sides like sweet tea, or for something a little richer, serve with a glass of warm apple cider or even a Kentucky bourbon cocktail. For holidays or special gatherings, you can also add a drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice to enhance the sweetness even more.

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If you loved this Mississippi Pecan Pie recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your thoughts! Follow me for more delicious Southern recipes, and be sure to share this with your friends and family so they can enjoy a taste of Mississippi, too.