Pecan Praline Pumpkin Pie

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of spiced pumpkin filling, a buttery crust, and a sweet praline topping creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make this Pecan Praline Pumpkin Pie an unforgettable treat. Moreover, the careful balance of spices enhances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin while adding a rich, nutty flavor from the pecans, making it a standout for any fall gathering.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Praline Pumpkin Pie

This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors. The warmth of the spices, the creaminess of the filling, and the crunch of the praline topping will remind you of cozy evenings and grateful holidays with loved ones. Each slice is a warm hug that promises to leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 unbaked Buttery Flaky Pie Crust or All Butter Pie Crust
• 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream (egg wash)

For the Filling

• 15 oz can (about 2 cups; 425g) pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
• ⅛ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• ⅔ cup (160ml) heavy cream
• ⅓ cup (80ml) whole milk

For the Praline Topping

• 1 cup (130g) finely chopped pecans
• ½ cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons (43g) honey
• Optional: flaky sea salt and whipped cream for garnish

Preparing the Pie Crust

Make Your Pie Dough

Start by making your pie dough at least 2 hours before you begin preparing the filling. This step is crucial because chilling is key to achieving a great texture.

Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, place your dough on a floured surface. Roll it out until it forms a 12-inch circle. Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish, folding the excess dough over to create a thicker edge.

Preheat and Pre-bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the pie crust with parchment paper and fill it with weights, like dried beans or rice, to keep it flat. Par-bake for 10 minutes. After removing the weights, brush the crust with the egg wash and prick it with a fork. Bake for another 7-8 minutes until it’s lightly golden.

Preparing the Pie Filling

Mix the Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, and spices until everything is well combined and smooth.

Bake the Filling

Pour the luscious filling into the warm crust and bake for 50-55 minutes. The center should no longer jiggle, yet a gentle shake is fine. Also, if you notice the edges browning too quickly, cover them with foil to protect them from burning.

Adding the Praline Topping

Prepare Topping Mixture

In a bowl, mix together the chopped pecans and brown sugar. Drizzle the honey over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

Top and Finish Baking

Spoon the praline topping gently over the baked filling. Press down lightly to ensure it adheres, then return the pie to the oven for 15 additional minutes.

Cooling and Serving

Let the Pie Cool

After baking, take the pie out of the oven and let it cool completely for at least 3-4 hours. If you’re not serving it right away, store the pie covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Serve with Whipped Cream

Slice your pie and serve it either at room temperature or cold. To enhance the experience, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top and add a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for Success

• Chill your pie crust thoroughly to avoid a soggy bottom.
• Use a pie shield or foil to protect crust edges while baking.
• Ensure spices are fresh for optimal flavor.

Variations

• Substitute pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique twist on sweetness.
• Add a splash of bourbon to deepen the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Pecan Praline Pumpkin Pie with a warm cup of coffee or a chilled glass of apple cider for a comforting experience. Alternatively, it also goes wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or drizzled caramel sauce for that extra indulgence.

Storage Tips

To keep leftovers fresh, store the pie covered in the fridge for up to five days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save you time and works wonderfully.

2. How can I make the pie ahead of time?
Prepare the pie up to a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator.

3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can try half and half or a non-dairy creamer as good alternatives.

4. Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Yes, gluten-free pie crusts are widely available, or you can make one with gluten-free flour.

5. How should I reheat leftovers?
Warm individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Pecan Praline Pumpkin Pie is indeed a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With its crispy crust and flavorful filling, it embodies the essence of fall. The familiar taste of pumpkin spice combined with the crunchy pecan topping makes this pie not only a dish but a cherished memory. Whether it’s a special holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this pie brings joy to every table. So grab your ingredients and get ready to bake a centerpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Print