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Caramel Pecan Delight Pie

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Caramel Pecan Delight Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that combines a buttery crust, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and creamy filling for the ultimate sweet treat. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or when you want to impress your guests, this pie is as delightful to eat as it is beautiful to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Luxuriously Decadent: A harmonious balance of creamy, crunchy, and gooey textures.
  • Perfect for Celebrations: A show-stopping dessert for any gathering.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or variations for a unique twist.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance to save time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

  • Graham cracker crumbs or pre-made pie crust
  • Unsalted butter (melted)
  • Granulated sugar

For the Filling:

  • Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Pecan halves
  • Cream cheese (softened)
  • Powdered sugar
  • Heavy cream
  • Vanilla extract

For Topping:

  • Whipped cream
  • Extra pecans (chopped or whole)
  • Drizzle of caramel sauce

Directions

  1. Prepare the crust:
    • Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl.
    • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
    • Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes for a firmer base. Cool completely.
  2. Make the caramel pecan layer:
    • Spread the caramel sauce evenly over the bottom of the cooled crust.
    • Sprinkle pecan halves over the caramel layer to form an even layer.
  3. Prepare the cream cheese filling:
    • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
    • Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, then whip until light and fluffy.
  4. Assemble the pie:
    • Spread the cream cheese mixture over the caramel pecan layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.
    • Cover the pie and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
  5. Add toppings:
    • Before serving, top the pie with whipped cream, additional pecans, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Makes 8-10 slices
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Variations

  • Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of melted chocolate or chocolate ganache over the caramel layer.
  • Nutty Mix: Use a combination of pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added variety.
  • Salted Caramel: Use salted caramel sauce for a sweet and salty flavor.
  • Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for warmth.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the pie (without whipped cream) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a pre-made crust?

Yes, a store-bought graham cracker or shortbread crust works perfectly.

2. How do I prevent the caramel from becoming too hard?

Use a soft caramel sauce and avoid over-chilling the pie before serving.

3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best creamy texture and flavor.

4. What’s the best way to slice the pie cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.

5. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the pie a day in advance and add whipped cream and toppings just before serving.

6. How do I make homemade caramel sauce?

Simmer sugar, butter, and cream in a saucepan, stirring until smooth and golden brown. Cool before using.

7. Can I toast the pecans?

Yes, toasting pecans enhances their flavor. Toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

8. Can I use another nut?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts can be substituted for pecans.

9. Is this pie gluten-free?

Ensure the graham crackers or crust are gluten-free to make the pie gluten-free.

10. Can I add fruit to the pie?

Yes, sliced bananas or apples layered over the caramel pecan layer add a fruity twist.

Conclusion

Caramel Pecan Delight Pie is an irresistible dessert that combines indulgent flavors and textures into a treat that everyone will adore. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or as a special after-dinner surprise, this pie is sure to be a hit. Try it today and delight your taste buds with its buttery, creamy, and caramelized goodness!

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Caramel Pecan Delight Pie

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This Caramel Pecan Delight Pie is a decadent dessert featuring a buttery crust, gooey caramel filling, and crunchy pecans topped with whipped cream. It’s a perfect treat for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 50 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 slices 1x
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the crust:

  • 1 1/4 cups (155 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 3–4 tablespoons ice water

For the caramel pecan filling:

  • 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) pecan halves

For topping:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Additional pecans or caramel drizzle for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  2. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
  4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Pre-bake the crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
  2. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, trim the edges, and crimp as desired. Prick the bottom with a fork.
  3. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes.
  4. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for another 5 minutes. Let cool.

Step 3: Make the caramel pecan filling

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and salt. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
  2. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Arrange the pecans in the pre-baked pie crust. Pour the caramel mixture over the pecans, spreading evenly.

Step 4: Bake the pie

  1. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pie for 20-25 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the filling is set.
  2. Let the pie cool completely at room temperature before topping.

Step 5: Whip the cream

  1. In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.

Step 6: Assemble and serve

  1. Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the cooled pie. Garnish with additional pecans or a drizzle of caramel if desired.
  2. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make ahead: Prepare the crust and filling a day in advance, and add the whipped cream just before serving.
  • Shortcuts: Use a store-bought pie crust or pre-made caramel sauce to save time.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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