Prepare to delight your taste buds with this incredible Pumpkin Pecan Pie recipe, the quintessential dessert that elegantly combines the beloved flavors of traditional pumpkin pie and classic pecan pie into one show-stopping creation. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a holiday experience waiting to happen, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion where a truly spectacular treat is desired.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie: The Ultimate Holiday Dessert Fusion
Have you ever encountered a recipe that seems to follow you, popping up in conversations and everyday life until you simply have to try it? That’s precisely what happened in the weeks leading up to the creation of this very special Pumpkin Pecan Pie recipe! It felt as if the universe itself was guiding me towards this incredible culinary fusion.
It began when a dear friend raved about a Pumpkin Pecan Pie he’d recently tasted, declaring it the most phenomenal pie he had ever encountered. His description of its rich, creamy pumpkin layer crowned with a sweet, nutty pecan topping sparked an immediate curiosity. Just a few days later, while leafing through the November issue of Sunset magazine, there it was – another feature on a Pecan Pumpkin Pie! At that point, resisting the urge to bake this combined masterpiece was futile. The stars, or rather, the ovens, had aligned.
And so, after much anticipation and delightful experimentation, I’m thrilled to share this unique pie with you. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that promises to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, and perhaps even spark a few conversations of its own! This isn’t just a pie; it’s the answer to the age-old holiday dilemma of choosing between two dessert favorites. Now, you can have the best of both worlds in every single slice.
This exquisite Pecan Pumpkin Pie quickly became our family’s most requested Thanksgiving dessert. Its dual-layered perfection offers the comforting warmth of spiced pumpkin alongside the sweet, crunchy decadence of a classic pecan pie, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will impress even the most discerning palates. It’s the perfect ending to any festive meal, leaving everyone craving another slice.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pecan Pie
- Two Desserts in One: No need to choose between two holiday favorites when you can have both in a single, magnificent pie.
- Irresistible Flavor Profile: The creamy, spiced pumpkin layer beautifully complements the sweet, sticky, and crunchy pecan topping.
- Perfect for Holidays: An absolute showstopper for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Designed to be prepared in advance, freeing up your precious holiday time.
- Easy to Follow: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is straightforward and accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Crafting this epic Pumpkin Pecan Pie requires a selection of simple, high-quality ingredients that combine to create truly remarkable flavors. Below is a quick overview; you’ll find specific measurements and comprehensive step-by-step instructions in the detailed recipe card at the end of this article. Always aim for the freshest ingredients for the best results.
- 9-Inch Deep Dish Pie Crust: This is your foundation. Whether you opt for a convenient store-bought crust or a flaky homemade version, ensure it’s a deep-dish variety to accommodate both delicious layers. A homemade pie crust often adds an extra touch of love!
- Pumpkin Puree: The heart of your pumpkin layer. Be sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which already contains added spices and sugar. This allows you to control the flavor profile precisely.
- Granulated Sugar: Provides the perfect level of sweetness for both the pumpkin and pecan layers, balancing the rich flavors.
- Large Eggs: Act as binders, giving both layers their signature creamy and set textures. They are crucial for the structure of the pie.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, this spice mix infuses the pumpkin layer with classic autumnal warmth. Feel free to adjust to your personal preference.
- Light Corn Syrup: The secret to the pecan layer’s glossy finish and characteristic chewy texture. It prevents sugar crystallization, ensuring a smooth, sweet filling.
- Melted Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the pecan topping, enhancing its nutty flavor. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the pie.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances all the sweet flavors and adds a subtle aromatic depth to the pecan filling.
- Pecan Halves: The star of the pecan layer! Use high-quality pecan halves for the best crunch and flavor. They will become beautifully toasted during baking.
Optional Spices: While pumpkin pie spice is fantastic on its own, you can further customize your pie by adding individual pinches of nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, or cloves if you prefer a stronger, more personalized spice blend.
Essential Equipment for Perfect Pie Baking
Having the right tools can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable baking process. Here’s what you’ll need to create your magnificent Pumpkin Pecan Pie:
- Large Mixing Bowl (x2): You’ll need one for each layer – pumpkin and pecan – to keep preparations separate and efficient.
- Kitchen Spoon/Spatula: Essential for combining ingredients and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Deep Dish Pie Dish / Pie Pan: A 9-inch deep dish pie pan is crucial for holding the generous two layers of this pie without overflowing.
- Pie Server: To elegantly slice and serve your beautiful creation, ensuring each piece comes out perfectly intact.
- Whisk: For smoothly incorporating ingredients and aerating the egg mixtures.
- Rolling Pin (if using homemade crust): If you’re making your pie crust from scratch, a good rolling pin is indispensable.
How to Make Your Divine Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Creating this layered dessert is simpler than you might imagine. While full, detailed instructions are available in the printable recipe card below, here’s an easy-to-follow overview to guide you through the process of making your delightful Pumpkin Pecan Pie.
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly from the moment it enters the oven, preventing a soggy crust and promoting a perfectly set filling.
Crafting the Rich Pumpkin Filling Layer
- Combine Ingredients: In your first large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the pumpkin puree, granulated white sugar, one large egg, and the pumpkin pie spice. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are well-integrated and the mixture is smooth and evenly colored. This ensures consistent flavor in every bite.
- Spread into Pie Shell: Carefully spread this luscious pumpkin mixture evenly over the bottom of your unbaked deep dish pie shell. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to ensure it covers the entire base, creating a uniform first layer.
Creating the Irresistible Pecan Topping Layer
- Mix Pecan Base: In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, the remaining granulated white sugar, the two large eggs, the melted unsalted butter, and the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in Pecans: Gently fold in the pecan halves. Ensure they are well coated with the sweet, buttery mixture. This step is crucial for achieving that classic, rich pecan pie texture.
- Layer Over Pumpkin: Carefully spoon the pecan mixture over the pumpkin layer in the pie shell. Distribute the pecans and the syrup evenly to ensure a beautiful, balanced top layer.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes. The pie is done when a knife inserted into the center of the pecan layer comes out clean. The crust should be golden brown, and the pecan topping should be set and slightly caramelized. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil.
Preparation and Storage Tips for Your Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Maximize your holiday efficiency and enjoyment with these convenient make-ahead and storage guidelines for your delicious Pumpkin Pecan Pie.
Make-Ahead: This fantastic pie recipe is incredibly make-ahead friendly, a huge advantage during busy holiday seasons! You can fully prepare and bake your Pumpkin Pecan Pie up to two days before you plan to serve it. Allow the baked pie to cool completely on a wire rack before storing it. This resting period also allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the filling to fully set, resulting in a firmer, more delightful slice.
Storage: To maintain its freshness and safety, the USDA recommends enjoying leftover pie containing eggs within three to four days when stored properly. After the pie has cooled to room temperature (which should be no more than two hours after baking), cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. Storing it in an airtight container can also help prevent it from drying out or absorbing other flavors from the refrigerator.
Freezing/How to Freeze: According to food experts, you can successfully freeze leftover Pumpkin Pecan Pie, whether it’s whole, half, or sliced portions, for up to two months. To freeze, ensure the pie is completely cool. Wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, to protect it from freezer burn. For individual slices, wrap each slice separately before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
How to Reheat: To enjoy your frozen or refrigerated pie, first allow the desired portion to come to room temperature on your kitchen countertop (this will take longer for frozen pie, typically several hours or overnight in the refrigerator). Once at room temperature, you can gently reheat the pie. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about ten minutes, or until warmed through. This brief reheating will help revive the crust’s crispness and warm the fillings without overcooking.
Delicious Recipe Variations to Explore
While the classic Pumpkin Pecan Pie is perfect as is, these variations offer exciting ways to customize your dessert to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Sugar Substitutions: While our recipe uses classic white granulated sugar, you can achieve a richer, deeper caramel note by substituting a portion or all of it with light or dark brown sugar, particularly in the pecan layer. This imparts a more molasses-like flavor that many find irresistible.
Crust Choices: We’ve suggested a convenient store-bought pie dough, which saves time, but don’t hesitate to elevate your pie with a homemade pie crust. A flaky, buttery homemade crust adds an unparalleled dimension to this dessert, making it even more special. Experiment with different crust recipes, such as a graham cracker crust for a different flavor profile.
Syrup Alternatives: For a delightful twist, replace the light corn syrup with pure maple syrup. This substitution will infuse your pecan layer with a wonderful, natural maple goodness, adding another layer of autumnal flavor that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
Vegetarian Option: This recipe is inherently vegetarian-friendly, making it a wonderful choice for guests who follow a vegetarian diet, provided all ingredients like the pie crust are also vegetarian. Always check labels if unsure.
Vegan Option: To transform this delightful pie into a vegan treat, simply swap the large eggs with plant-based egg substitutes (such as a flax egg or commercial egg replacer) and use a high-quality plant-based butter alternative. Ensure your pie crust is also vegan, as some store-bought varieties may contain animal products.
Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, making this recipe gluten-free is straightforward. Simply use a certified gluten-free pie crust. Additionally, always check the labels of all your ingredients (like pumpkin puree, spices, and corn syrup) to ensure they are free from gluten cross-contamination, especially if you have severe sensitivities.
Smaller Serving Size (Pumpkin Pecan Tarts): If you’re looking for individual servings or a more miniature, elegant presentation, consider making Pumpkin Pecan Tarts. Use a cookie cutter to cut your unbaked pie crust into tart-sized pieces that fit your tart pans. Press the crust into the pans, then spread the pumpkin and pecan mixtures over the tart shells. Adjust baking time accordingly for smaller portions.
Larger Group / More Servings: Easily scale this recipe up by multiplying the ingredients for each additional pie you wish to make. This is ideal for large family gatherings or events where one pie simply won’t be enough!
Sugar-Free: The original recipe contains a certain amount of sugar. To create a sugar-free version, you would need to use a sugar-free pie shell, and replace granulated sugar and light corn syrup with appropriate sugar substitutes (e.g., erythritol-based sweeteners, sugar-free syrups). It’s also vital to select canned pumpkin puree with no sugar added, as some brands include sugar for flavor. Always check ingredient labels carefully when making sugar-free adjustments.
Pro Tips for Baking the Best Pumpkin Pecan Pie
Achieving pie perfection is easier with a few expert tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your Pumpkin Pecan Pie is absolutely flawless every time:
- Enhance Your Serving: While this pie is incredible on its own, elevate the experience with a dollop of homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Whipped Cream or a generous scoop of premium Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. The contrast of cold creaminess with the warm pie is pure bliss!
- Invest in a Good Pie Server: A sturdy and well-designed pie server is invaluable for neatly removing slices from the pan, preserving the integrity and beauty of each piece.
- Choose Deep Dish Pie Pans: Using deep dish pie pans is not optional for this recipe. They provide ample space for both the substantial pumpkin and decadent pecan layers, preventing overflow during baking and ensuring a generous, impressive pie.
- Always Preheat Your Oven: This foundational baking rule is critical. Preheating to the correct temperature ensures an even, consistent bake from start to finish, which is essential for both crust and filling.
- Consider Blind Baking the Crust: To guarantee a crisp, non-soggy bottom crust, especially with a wet filling like pumpkin, consider blind-baking your pie shell before adding the fillings. You can do this by lining the crust with parchment paper, filling it with pie weights or dried beans, and baking for about 10-15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry pumpkin layer and a hard pecan topping. Keep an eye on the pie, and remember it will continue to set slightly as it cools. The knife test for cleanliness is a reliable indicator.
- Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool fully on a wire rack for several hours (or even overnight) before slicing. This allows the fillings to set properly, preventing a messy, crumbly slice. Patience is key for perfect presentation!
- Nutrition Information: Comprehensive nutrition details are available in the recipe card below, helping you understand the caloric and nutrient breakdown per serving.
What to Serve with Your Pumpkin Pecan Pie
This elegant and hearty pie, combining two favorite holiday flavors, is a magnificent centerpiece for any festive meal. Here are some menu pairing suggestions to help you craft a truly unforgettable feast for sharing with friends and family, making your Pumpkin Pecan Pie the perfect grand finale.
Complementary Side Dishes:
- Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies: A delightful sweet and savory appetizer.
- Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls: Cheesy, savory bites that are always a hit.
- Cheesy Green Beans: A comforting and rich vegetable side.
- Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Adds a tart, refreshing contrast.
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams: Another classic sweet side dish.
- Creamed Corn Casserole: Creamy and rich, perfect for a holiday table.
- Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole: A timeless holiday staple.
- CrockPot Scalloped Potatoes & Ham: A hearty and convenient side.
Hearty Main Dishes:
- Eggnog French Toast: For a festive brunch that leads into dessert.
- Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: A savory breakfast or brunch option.
- Ham & Cheese Crescent Roll Casserole: Easy and delicious for a crowd.
- CrockPot Turkey: Free up oven space with this slow cooker turkey.
- CrockPot Ham: Simple and flavorful ham preparation.
- CrockPot Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs: A crowd-pleasing appetizer or light main.
- Bourbon Baked Ham: A sophisticated and flavorful ham recipe.
- CrockPot Orange Glazed Ham: A zesty and sweet ham option.
- CrockPot Coke Glazed Ham: A unique and surprisingly delicious main.
Dessert Companions (if you want more sweets!):
- Eggnog Cookies: Spiced cookies for extra holiday cheer.
- Sugared Cranberries: A beautiful and tart garnish.
- 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack: Addictive and easy to make.
- Reindeer Chow: A fun, festive snack mix.
- Grinch Bark: A vibrant and whimsical treat.
- No Bake Church Window Cookies: Colorful and easy no-bake cookies.
- Eggnog Cake with Eggnog Glaze: For the ultimate eggnog lover.
- No Bake Eggnog Pie: Another easy, festive pie.
- Cranberry Fluff Salad: A light and fruity side or dessert.
- Snow Ice Cream: A unique and seasonal delight.
- Black Forest Cupcakes: Rich and decadent chocolate cherry treats.
Festive Drinks:
- Broken Down Golf Cart Shot: A fun adult beverage.
- Baileys Hot Chocolate: A comforting, spiked hot drink.
- Grinch Jello Shots: Playful and colorful.
- Fireball Jello Shots: For those who like a bit of spice.
- Cherry Bomb Shot: A vibrant, spirited shot.
- Cranberry Mimosa: A sparkling and festive brunch cocktail.
- Eggnog Coffee: A warm and inviting coffee with a holiday twist.
- Peppermint Patty Shot: Cool and refreshing.
- Polar Bear Shot: A sweet, minty shot.
- Boozy Grinch Drink: A fun, holiday-themed cocktail.
- Three Wise Men Shot: A classic strong shot.
- Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail: A sophisticated and warm drink.
When to Serve This Delightful Pie
This versatile and flavorful Pumpkin Pecan Pie is perfect for a variety of occasions, especially during the cooler months and holiday season. Its rich, comforting flavors make it an ideal dessert for:
- Thanksgiving Pie: Undoubtedly a star at any Thanksgiving feast, offering a delicious twist on traditional offerings.
- Holiday Gatherings: Whether it’s a family reunion or a festive party, this pie is sure to impress.
- Christmas: A perfect dessert to round off your Christmas dinner, bringing warmth and joy to the table.
- Fall Harvest Parties: Celebrate the bounty of autumn with a pie that embodies the season’s best flavors.
- Potlucks and Bake Sales: Its unique combination of flavors guarantees it will stand out.
Explore More Fantastic Recipe Collections
If you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, especially for seasonal and holiday meals, dive into these wonderful recipe collections:
- Slow Cooker Thanksgiving Recipes – Maximize your oven space and simplify your holiday meal prep by utilizing your crockpot for these fantastic Thanksgiving dishes.
- Easy Fall Drink Recipes – Discover delicious fall cocktails featuring apple cider, Fireball, cinnamon, pumpkin, and all the quintessential autumn flavors everyone will adore.
- Delightful Apple Cider Recipes – Explore a variety of apple cider recipes perfect for fall, from invigorating cocktails to comforting desserts that are sure to be a hit.
- Irresistible Fall Dessert Recipes – Indulge in our favorite autumn-inspired desserts, showcasing the warm, aromatic flavors of nutmeg, maple syrup, brown sugar, and more.
- Creative Apple Dessert Recipes – Find all the fun and delicious fall desserts you can craft using fresh, crisp apples.
- Versatile Canned Pumpkin Recipes – Uncover amazing ways to use canned pumpkin, including desserts, pumpkin bread, savory and sweet treats, entrees, and countless other epic pumpkin creations.
Do you love discovering new recipes? Be sure to check out our copycat recipes, a wide array of dessert recipes, and our convenient CrockPot Recipes for every meal of the day.
Stay connected for all our latest recipe posts and culinary tips! Follow Tammilee Tips on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Recipe
Print
10
50
1
6
539kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9 inch deep dish pie shell
Pumpkin Layer
- 1 cup Pumpkin Puree/Canned Pumpkin
- ⅓ cup White Sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pecan Layer
- ⅔ cup Light Corn Syrup
- ½ cup White Sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 Tablespoon Butter melted
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup pecan halves
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
Pumpkin Layer
- In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, white sugar, 1 large egg, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir well until completely smooth.
- Spread the pumpkin mixture evenly over the bottom of the unbaked pie shell.
Pecan Layer
- In a separate bowl, whisk together light corn syrup, white sugar, 2 large eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in the pecan halves until well coated.
- Carefully spoon the pecan mixture over the pumpkin layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center of the pecan layer comes out clean and the top is golden brown. If the crust begins to darken too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set properly for clean cuts.
Kitchen Tools
- Deep Dish Pie Dish (9-inch)
- Pie Server
- Large Mixing Bowls (x2)
- Whisk
- Spatula or Kitchen Spoon
Nutrition Facts
Calories from Fat 225
Love this recipe?
Follow @TammileeTIps on Pinterest
Tried this recipe?
Mention @TammileeTipsLife when you share a photo!
Recipe originally shared on November 7, 2013. Updated September 2020. This version further revised for SEO, fluency, and clarity.