Description
This luscious Pecan Cream Pie combines a rich, creamy filling with toasted pecans in a buttery baked pie crust. The velvety cream cheese and whipped heavy cream base provides a light yet indulgent texture, while the sweet pecan topping adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion when you want a no-bake, impressive dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 1 9-inch baked pie crust
Cream Filling
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pecan Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the pecan topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Cook while stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the toasted chopped pecans. Set aside to cool completely, allowing the topping to thicken further.
- Make the cream filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until fully combined and the mixture is silky.
- Whip the heavy cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This means when you lift the beaters, the cream holds firm peaks without collapsing.
- Fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Do this carefully to maintain the light and fluffy texture without deflating the whipped cream.
- Assemble the pie: Spread the cream filling evenly into the baked pie crust, smoothing the top gently. Then spoon the cooled pecan topping over the cream layer and spread it out evenly for full coverage.
- Chill the pie: Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 4 hours to allow it to fully set and develop flavors. Once set, slice and serve chilled for best results.
Notes
- Toast the pecans before chopping to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- This pie can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator to save time.
- Use a chilled bowl and beaters when whipping cream to achieve stiffer peaks faster.
- For easiest slicing, use a hot, wet knife and wipe between slices.
