Description
This Pecan Cream Pie features a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a smooth, creamy mixture of cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, maple syrup, and whipped cream, topped with sweet and buttery toasted pecans. It's a perfect dessert to chill and serve for special occasions or any time you crave a rich, nutty treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp Butter (Melted)
- 2 tbsp Granulated sugar
Filling
- 8 oz Cream cheese (Softened)
- ½ cup Powdered sugar (Sifted)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- ¾ cup Heavy whipping cream (Whipped to stiff peaks)
- 2 tbsp Maple syrup (Pure)
Topping
- 1 cup Chopped pecans (Toasted in butter/sugar)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar
- Pinch Salt (Optional)
Instructions
- Make Crust: Mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar together until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Bake Crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into a pie pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Remove and let it cool completely.
- Toast Pecans: In a skillet, toast the chopped pecans with butter and brown sugar over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and coated. Remove from heat and cool.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Flavor: Add the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and maple syrup to the cream cheese. Mix until fully combined.
- Whip Cream: Whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
- Fill Pie: Spoon the creamy filling into the cooled crust and spread evenly to cover the surface.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the cooled toasted pecans over the top of the filling, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Chill Pie: Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set properly.
- Serve: When ready, slice the pie with a warm knife and serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for smoother mixing.
- Use a warm knife when slicing to get clean cuts and prevent cracking.
- Chilling overnight improves flavor and texture by allowing the pie to set completely.
- Optional pinch of salt in pecan topping balances sweetness.
- Toast pecans carefully to avoid burning and develop a rich flavor.
