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Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
Start by preparing the pie crust, as it needs to chill before use. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough—aim for a crumbly, shaggy texture. Once it forms a dough, shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish and trim any excess. If you want a decorative edge, crimp the edges using your fingers or a fork. Place the pie shell back in the fridge to chill while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and fully combined. This creates the rich, gooey base for your filling.
Step 3: Add the Pecans
Once the filling is smooth, stir in the pecan halves (or chopped pecans, depending on your preference). The pecans will float to the top as the pie bakes, creating a beautiful, nutty crust on top of the filling.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pecan mixture into the prepared pie crust. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the filling is set and only slightly wobbly in the center. The edges of the pie should be golden brown, and the filling should have a firm, fudgy consistency.
If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield to prevent burning.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. The filling will continue to set as it cools. For best results, let the pie sit for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to fully firm up.
Serve this indulgent Kentucky Pecan Pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Why You’ll Love Kentucky Pecan Pie
- Rich & Complex Flavors: The bourbon and maple syrup give this pie a depth of flavor that regular pecan pies don’t have, with a smooth, caramel-like sweetness balanced by the slight smokiness of the bourbon.
- Buttery, Flaky Crust: The buttery homemade crust provides the perfect contrast to the gooey, nutty filling, making each bite a wonderful blend of textures.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Kentucky Pecan Pie is a show-stopping dessert that will impress your guests at holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion.
- A Taste of Southern Tradition: This pie is a celebration of Southern flavors, from the maple syrup to the Kentucky bourbon—it’s a true taste of the South that you won’t soon forget.
Tips and Variations
- Bourbon Substitute: If you’re not a fan of bourbon or don’t have any on hand, you can substitute it with another spirit like dark rum or even vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic option. However, the bourbon adds a distinct richness that truly makes this pie unique.
- Add Chocolate: For a decadent twist, try adding chocolate chips to the filling—about 1/2 cup—to give the pie an extra layer of richness and flavor. The chocolate and pecans complement each other beautifully!
- Use a Pre-Made Crust: If you’re short on time, feel free to use a store-bought pie crust. Just be sure to bake the pie long enough for the filling to set properly.
- Freezing: Kentucky Pecan Pie can be made ahead of time and frozen. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator and warm it slightly in the oven.
Final Thoughts
Kentucky Pecan Pie is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that takes the classic pecan pie to the next level with the addition of bourbon, maple syrup, and brown sugar. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors with a rich, gooey texture that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade dessert, Kentucky Pecan Pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So grab a fork, dig into that decadent slice, and enjoy the sweet, nutty, and slightly smoky flavors of this Southern classic!
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