Irresistibly Creamy Pecan Cream Pie for Festive Gatherings Recipe
Introduction
This pecan cream pie is a luscious treat perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners. With a rich, creamy filling and a crunchy pecan topping, it strikes the ideal balance of sweet and nutty flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought, baked and cooled)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (honey can be a substitute)
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, finely chopped, divided
- 8 ounces whipped cream (for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and confectioner’s sugar together until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Step 2: In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, light brown sugar, and pure maple syrup. Beat at medium speed until smooth, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Step 3: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until well combined.
- Step 4: Spoon the creamy mixture into the cooled pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 5: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the filled pie for a luscious layer.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans evenly on top of the pie before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and adding them to the pie.
- Substitute honey for maple syrup if you prefer a different natural sweetness.
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of a traditional pie crust for a different texture and flavor.
Storage
Store the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing, as the creamy filling may separate.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use if I don’t have cream cheese?
Cream cheese provides the key creamy texture in this pie, but you can try mascarpone as a substitute for a slightly different flavor and similar texture.
PrintIrresistibly Creamy Pecan Cream Pie for Festive Gatherings Recipe
This Irresistibly Creamy Pecan Cream Pie is a luscious dessert perfect for festive gatherings. Featuring a smooth blend of cream cheese, whipped cream, and maple syrup with a delightful crunch of chopped pecans on a flaky pie crust, this pie offers a rich and indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pie Base
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought, baked and cooled)
Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (honey can be a substitute)
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, finely chopped, divided
Topping
- 8 ounces whipped cream
Instructions
- Whip Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the heavy whipping cream and confectioner’s sugar until stiff peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. This will provide a rich and airy base for the filling.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, combine softened cream cheese, light brown sugar, and pure maple syrup. Beat at medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Fold Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. This careful folding maintains the light texture and integrates the flavors evenly.
- Fill Pie Crust: Spoon the creamy mixture into the cooled pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even layer.
- Add Whipped Cream Topping: Spread the 8 ounces of whipped cream evenly over the filled pie, creating a luscious, fluffy layer.
- Garnish with Pecans: Evenly sprinkle the remaining finely chopped pecans on top of the pie to add crunch and enhance the pecan flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the filling to set properly and flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use a pre-baked pie crust to avoid a soggy base.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with honey for a different but complementary sweetness.
- Fold whipped cream gently into the cream cheese mixture to keep the filling light and airy.
- Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours for best texture and flavor.
- Chop pecans finely to distribute texture evenly throughout.
Keywords: pecan cream pie, creamy pecan pie, no bake dessert, festive pie, whipped cream pie, maple syrup dessert
