PECAN CREAM PIE RECIPE
Serves 8–10
A delicious pie with a buttery crust, smooth vanilla cream filling, and a toasted pecan topping.
INGREDIENTS
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Cream Filling
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup pecans (toasted & chopped)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Bake the Pie Crust
- Bake crust according to package or recipe instructions
- Let it cool completely before filling
Tip: A fully cooled crust prevents sogginess.
Make the Cream Filling
In a saucepan (medium heat):
- Whisk sugar, cornstarch, and salt
- Add milk, heavy cream, and egg yolks
- Whisk continuously until thick (about 7–10 minutes)
- Remove from heat
- Stir in butter and vanilla
- Let cool slightly
Important: Stir constantly to avoid lumps or scrambled eggs.
Fill the Pie
- Pour the warm cream filling into the cooled crust
- Smooth the top with a spatula
- Refrigerate for 3–4 hours until fully set
Prepare the Pecan Topping
In a pan over medium heat:
- Melt butter
- Add brown sugar and cream
- Stir until smooth and slightly thick
- Add toasted pecans, cinnamon, and salt
- Let cool slightly before topping the pie
Add the Topping
- Spread pecan mixture evenly over the chilled cream filling
- Chill again for 30–60 minutes before serving
Optional Whipped Cream
Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.
Pipe or spread on top before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve chilled for best texture
- Garnish with:
- Extra pecans
- Caramel drizzle
- Chocolate shavings
- Whipped cream swirls
Perfect with:
- Coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Vanilla ice cream
- PRO TIPS & RECOMMENDATIONS
✔ Toast pecans for deeper flavor
✔ Chill fully — cream pie needs time to set
✔ Use heavy cream for richer texture
✔ Add bourbon or maple syrup for gourmet flavor
✔ Keep refrigerated until serving
✔ Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts