By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on December 18, 2023 | Last Updated on December 18, 2023
Get ready to be transported back to simpler times with Ann Landers’ famous Pecan Pie recipe. This vintage delight, much like its creator, has stood the test of time, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Known for her sage advice, Landers also knew a thing or two about creating a dessert that warms the heart as much as it pleases the palate. Her pecan pie, with its delectable balance of sweet, crunchy, and buttery flavors, is a testament to her understanding of life’s simple pleasures.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at pie-making for the first time, this recipe promises to deliver a slice of nostalgia and a whole lot of deliciousness. So roll up your sleeves, tie on an apron, and let’s dive into the timeless tradition of Ann Landers’ Pecan Pie.
What is Ann Lander’s pecan pie?
Ann Lander’s pecan pie is a classic American dessert that has been popularized by the advice columnist Ann Landers. The recipe passed down through generations, features a flaky crust filled with a rich mixture of brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and chopped pecans.
This sweet and nutty filling is then baked to perfection, creating a decadent treat that has become a staple at holiday gatherings and family dinners.
Why You’ll Love this Ann Lander’s pecan pie?
There are many reasons to fall in love with Ann Lander’s pecan pie. For one, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and simple techniques.
It also offers the perfect balance of sweetness from the sugar and richness from the butter, making it an indulgent dessert without being overly heavy. And let’s not forget about the star of the show – the pecans. The chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that elevates this pie to new heights.
Moreover, Ann Lander’s pecan pie has sentimental value, as it has been enjoyed by families for generations. It brings back memories of simpler times and evokes a sense of nostalgia that is hard to resist. And with each bite, you can also savor a little piece of history and the legacy of Ann Landers’ timeless recipe.
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Ingredients
- Dark Brown Sugar: The molasses in the dark brown sugar gives the pie its signature rich, caramel-like flavor. It also helps to give the filling its thick and gooey texture.
- Melted Butter: Butter adds richness and depth to the flavor of the pie. It also contributes to the creamy texture of the filling.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent in this recipe, helping to hold all the other ingredients together. They also contribute to the custard-like texture of the pie filling.
- Vanilla Extract: This is used to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. Its sweet, aromatic qualities complement the nutty flavor of the pecans and the richness of the brown sugar and butter.
- Salt: A small amount of salt can intensify the flavors of the other ingredients. It also helps to balance out the sweetness of the sugar and corn syrup.
- Shelled Pecans: Pecans are the star of the show in this recipe. They provide a delicious, nutty flavor and a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy filling.
- White Corn Syrup or White Sugar: These ingredients are responsible for the sweetness of the pie. Corn syrup also gives the filling its glossy appearance and contributes to its gooey texture.
- Unbaked Pie Shells: The pie shell provides a container for the filling and also adds a crispy, flaky texture to each bite.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This sets the stage for baking the delicious pecan pie.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dark brown sugar and melted butter. Thoroughly blend them until a cohesive mixture forms.
Step 3: Incorporate Flavor and Smoothness
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the sugar-butter mixture. Mix until the entire concoction achieves a smooth, well-combined texture. This step infuses the filling with sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Pecans
- Gently stir in the pecans until they are evenly coated with the sweet filling mixture. This step ensures each pecan is nicely coated and will provide that wonderful crunch in every bite.
Step 5: Fill the Pie Shell
- Pour the prepared filling into an unbaked pie shell, ensuring an even distribution. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, creating an enticing surface.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed up. This ensures the pie is perfectly cooked, with a slightly puffed and golden top.
Step 7: Allow Cooling
- Let the pie cool before serving. This allows the filling to set completely, ensuring a cohesive and delicious pie when served.
Step 8: Serving with a Finishing Touch
- To enhance the experience, serve slices of Ann Landers’ pecan pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This provides a perfect finishing touch, adding a delightful contrast to the warm, nutty sweetness of the pie. Enjoy!
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can also wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Also, if you want to make this pie ahead of time, you can freeze it before baking and then thaw and bake when ready to serve. This is a great option for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ann Landers Pecan Pie Recipe
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- pastry blender
- or fork
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Shelled Pecans
- 2 Cups Dark Brown Sugar
- 2/3 Cup Melted Butter
- 2 Cups White Corn Syrup or White Sugar
- 6 Eggs beaten
- 2 Dashes of Vanilla Extract
- 2 Pinches of Salt
- Two 9-inch Unbaked Pie Shells.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine brown sugar and melted butter.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, and mix until smooth.
- Gently stir in the pecans until coated.
- Pour the filling into an unbaked pie shell and smooth the top.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes until set and slightly puffed.
- Let the pie cool to set the filling.
- Serve slices of Ann Landers’ pecan pie with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added delight.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat.
- Add some variety by incorporating different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds.
- For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice before serving.
What other substitute can I use in Ann Lander’s pecan pie?
If you want to make some substitutions in this recipe, here are a few options:
- For a healthier alternative, you can use coconut sugar or agave nectar instead of dark brown sugar. This will result in a slightly different flavor profile but will still be delicious.
- If you don’t have corn syrup on hand, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute. Just keep in mind that they have different levels of sweetness, so you may need to adjust the amount used according to your taste.
- Instead of using all-purpose flour for the pie crust, you can use gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option. You can also use pre-made pie crusts if you’re short on time.
- For a vegan version, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) instead of eggs and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative.
FAQs
Why does my pecan pie come out runny?
A runny pecan pie is often a result of undercooking. When the pie isn’t baked long enough, the eggs in the filling don’t have enough time to set, leading to a runny consistency. Make sure you’re baking the pie at the correct temperature and for the specified time.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar for dark brown sugar. However, keep in mind that dark brown sugar has a higher molasses content, which gives the pie a richer, more caramel-like flavor. Using light brown sugar may result in a slightly less intense flavor.
Why do we need to use unbaked pie shells?
Starting with an unbaked pie shell allows the crust and the filling to cook at the same rate. This ensures that the crust is fully baked and flaky, without overcooking the filling.
Can I make this recipe without corn syrup?
While corn syrup helps give the pecan pie its classic gooey texture and glossy appearance, it is possible to substitute it with other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. However, these substitutions may alter the final taste and texture of your pie.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ann Landers’ Pecan Pie is more than just a delicious dessert. It’s a piece of history, a symbol of comfort and tradition that has stood the test of time.
With its irresistible combination of sweet, buttery, and nutty flavors, this pie has been a favorite among families for generations.
And now, with this simple recipe at your fingertips, you too can experience the joy and nostalgia of Ann Landers’ Pecan Pie in your own home.
So why not give it a try? We guarantee that one bite will transport you back to simpler times and leave you wanting more. Happy baking!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
