Pecan Cream Pie

This fluffy Pecan Cream Pie is sheer decadence. It features a billowy vanilla cream cheesecake-like filling studded with toasted pecans all encased in a graham cracker crust. This pie can be served at holiday gatherings, family celebrations, and community potluck events.

Ingredients to Make Pecan Cream Pie Recipe

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that’s associated with Southern cuisine. While the exact origin of pecan pie is not definitively known, food historians believe it did originate in the South with the earliest recorded history dating back to the early 19th century. The most common version of classic pecan pie features a gooey filling made from eggs, corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, and pecans. The basic pecan pie recipe that has evolved over time, with variations emerging in different regions of the South depending on the cook’s preference. This Creamy Pecan Pie is yet another variation we love, and it’s bound to be included on our holiday table. It’s especially appealing to those who aren’t a fan of traditional pecan pie. It’s a rich dessert ideal for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, potlucks, tea parties or any special occasion. Ingredients to make a simple no bake Pecan Cream Pie: (Scroll down for full printable recipe card.)

• Graham Cracker Crust – Chopped pecans, graham cracker crumbs, salted or unsalted butter and granulated sugar.
• Cream Cheese – Plain cream cheese forms the base of the filling.
• Liquid – Sweetened condensed milk for sweetness.
• Flavoring – Vanilla extract expands the flavor profile.
• Cool Whip – Frozen whipped topping makes the filling light and fluffy.
• Topping – Thick caramel ice cream topping or dulce de leche.

How to Make the BEST Pecan Cream Pie Recipe

• Heat Oven and Toast Pecans – Spread pecan pieces in a single layer on a sheet pan. Toast in the oven for 6-8 minutes then set aside to cool.
• Make Graham Cracker Crust – In a medium bowl toss together the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and granulated sugar.
• Transfer to Pan – Press firmly onto the bottom and 1-inch up the side of a 9-inch springform pan that’s been sprayed lightly with cooking spray.
• Oven – Bake the graham cracker crust per the recipe until lightly golden-brown and set. Cool pie crust.
• Make the Cream Cheese Filling – In a separate bowl, use a mixer to cream together cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Whip on medium speed until smooth.
• Pecans – Stir pecans into the cream cheese mixture by hand, then fold in the whipped topping.
• Add to Crust – Transfer the cream cheese mixture to the cooled pie crust. Spread evenly then cover and chill for 4-6 hours or overnight.
• Make Caramel Pecan Topping – Mix remaining pecans with the caramel. Spoon evenly on top of the pie. Decorate with additional whipped cream, along the edge, if desired.
• Chill – Return to the refrigerator to chill the pie until serving, then slice, serve and enjoy every creamy bite.

Tips for Making Pecan Cream Pie

• Kitchen Tools You’ll Need: One 9-inch springform pan, measuring cups and spoons, large bowl, stand mixer or hand mixer, sharp knife and cutting board or a nut chopper.
• Chop the Pecans Evenly: When prepping the whole pecans it’s important to chop the pecans into small, uniform pieces for even distribution throughout the filling for the pie.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the longest shelf life, use the freshest of ingredients. Ensure that your ingredients, especially the pecans and cream cheese are fresh for the best flavor and texture..
• Use a Thick Caramel: The topping for this no-bake is is designed to be simple. I highly recommend using a caramel that’s on the thicker side. A caramel that’s on the thicker side is more apt to stay in place. It will naturally drip down the sides which is fine, and makes for an appetizing presentation.
• Pre-Bake the Crust: Bake the graham cracker crust until it’s set. Baking the crust before adding the creamy filling helps prevent it from becoming soggy. This also helps it to stay intact when slicing and serving. Make sure to fully pre-bake the crust until it’s lightly golden brown.
• Thoroughly Chill Before Slicing: It’s important to allow ample time for the pie to chill in the fridge and set prior to slicing. At least 4-6 hours or overnight is best.

Recipe Variations

• Sweetened Condensed Milk: You could opt to replace half of the sweetened condensed milk with pure maple syrup or dark corn syrup.
• Granulated Sugar in the Crust: You could swap out white sugar in the graham cracker crust and replace it with the same amount of light brown sugar.
• Flavorings: You can also add 1/2-1 teaspoon of rum extract to give the filling a slightly different flavor twist.
• Nuts: You could also make this pie with walnuts.
• Get Creative with Toppings: While traditional pecan cream pie is delicious on its own, you can also get creative with toppings. Garnish with fresh whipped cream, toffee bits or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and presentation.
• Swirls: To decorate this pie as pictured you’ll need additional whipped topping. 

How to Make Homemade Whipped Cream for Garnishing

Use an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. In a large bowl whip one pint of heavy cream and 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract on medium-high speed. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar or powdered sugar to the cream. Whip until stiff peaks form. Chill until using.

Storage and Leftovers

• Refrigerate for Proper Setting: After assembling the pie, pop it into the fridge for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set completely. This pecan cream pie is best served chilled.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover pecan pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents it from drying out.
• Freezer: You can freeze this pie for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight prior to serving.

More Easy Pie Recipes to Make

• Southern Buttermilk Pie is another iconic dessert that takes pantry ingredients to make.
• Chocolate Chess Pie is rich and simple to make.
• Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie is a decadent dessert for the holidays or any special occasion.
• Mile High Banana Cream Pie is proof that no skimpy pies are ever allowed in my kitchen.
• Salted Caramel Coconut Cream Pie is a cinch to make.
• Double Crust Blueberry Pie.
• My blue ribbon Sweet Potato Pie.
• Pineapple Pie from Crazy For Crust.

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Helpful Kitchen Items:

• Mixer
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Set
• 9-inch Springform Pan