Easy Pecan Pie Recipe

Classic Southern Comfort in One Buttery, Nutty Slice

If there’s one dessert that defines Southern charm and cozy holiday dinners, it’s pecan pie. Sweet, gooey, and filled with rich, nutty flavor, this pie is a crowd-pleaser year-round — and surprisingly easy to make!

Forget complicated steps and fancy equipment. This version keeps it simple and delicious with just a handful of pantry staples and a frozen pie crust. Let’s walk through how to whip up the perfect pecan pie, even if you’ve never baked a pie in your life.

🥧 Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make your easy pecan pie:

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

  • 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark – your choice!)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 frozen deep-dish pie crust (store-bought works beautifully)

  • 1 (6.5 oz) package of pecan pieces or halves (both work great, pieces give better coverage, halves give you that classic look)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). By the time you're done mixing, it should be ready to go.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:

  • 1 cup sugar

  • 3 eggs

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

  • 1 cup corn syrup

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. Make sure the butter has cooled a little before adding it to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Step 3: Add the Pecans

Now, stir in the 6.5 oz package of pecan pieces or halves. You can mix them right into the filling so they bake throughout the pie, or save a few to arrange on top in a decorative pattern. Up to you!

🔥 Tip: If you’re using pecan halves and want that glossy top layer of nuts, set some aside and gently place them on top of the filling after pouring it into the crust.

Step 4: Pour Into Pie Crust

Take your frozen deep-dish pie crust straight from the freezer (no need to thaw), and place it on a baking sheet for easier handling. Then pour the pecan filling mixture into the crust.

The baking sheet will help prevent spills and make it easier to transfer to and from the oven.

Step 5: Bake It

Slide your pie (on the baking sheet) into the preheated 350°F oven. Bake for about 1 hour.

The pie is done when:

  • The center is just slightly jiggly (like Jell-O), not sloshy.

  • The crust is golden.

  • The top is beautifully caramelized.

If the crust starts browning too much, cover the edges loosely with foil halfway through.

Step 6: Let It Cool

This is important — the pie needs to cool completely before serving. Right out of the oven, it will be molten hot lava (seriously, that sugary center gets very hot).

Let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2–3 hours to set properly. It’s best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.

📝 Extra Tips & Variations

  • Add a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist!

  • Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream when serving.

  • Make it a chocolate pecan pie by tossing in a handful of chocolate chips before baking.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or enjoy cold.

🎉 The Final Slice

This easy pecan pie delivers rich, nutty goodness with a gooey, caramel-like center and crisp crust — all with minimal effort. It’s the perfect pie for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy weekend treat. And the best part? It looks like you spent way more time on it than you did.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a total newbie, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. 🥧✨