This decadent creamy pumpkin pie with candied pecans is the perfect centerpiece for your festive table, offering a harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors. Unlike traditional pumpkin pies, this version incorporates a creamy cream cheese layer that elevates the dish, while the candied pecans add an irresistible texture and a touch of elegance. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas gathering or celebrating any special occasion, this pie is sure to impress and satisfy your guests with every luscious bite.
Crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is both easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. The overnight refrigeration step ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a pie that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing. Pair it with a dollop of sweetened whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence, and watch as this dessert becomes a beloved tradition in your holiday repertoire.
Ingredients For decadent creamy pumpkin pie with candied pecans
CANDIED PECANS
- 1/2 cup pecan halves (about 75 grams)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (about 25 grams)
- 2 tablespoons butter (about 30 grams)
PUMPKIN PIE
- 1 (9-inch [23 centimeters]) unbaked deep-dish pie crust
- 1 1/2 cups sugar (about 300 grams)
- 1 package cream cheese, softened (8 ounces [230 grams])
- 2 eggs (about 100 grams)
- 1 can pumpkin (15 ounces [425 grams])
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (about 2 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (about 1 gram)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (about 0.5 grams)
- 1 can evaporated milk (12 ounces [355 milliliters])
- Cool Whip or sweetened whipped cream, if desired
How To Make decadent creamy pumpkin pie with candied pecans
- Prepare the Candied Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 180°C). In a 9-inch (23 centimeters) baking pan, melt the butter. Add the pecan halves and brown sugar, stirring well to coat the pecans evenly.
- Bake the Pecans: Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, stirring every 10-15 minutes to ensure even caramelization.
- Cool the Pecans: Once the pecans are candied and golden brown, remove them from the oven. Spread the pecans onto a plate lined with wax paper to cool completely.
- Prepare the Pumpkin Filling: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (about 160°C). In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the sugar and softened cream cheese until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
- Add Eggs and Pumpkin: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the pumpkin, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and ground cloves until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Incorporate Evaporated Milk: Gradually add the evaporated milk to the pumpkin mixture, beating on low speed until everything is well blended.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the pumpkin filling into the unbaked deep-dish pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the lowest rack of the preheated oven and bake for approximately 2 hours, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for 1 1/2 to 2 hours at room temperature. This cooling period helps the filling to set properly.
- Add the Topping: Once the pie has cooled, spread a generous layer of Cool Whip or sweetened whipped cream over the top. Sprinkle the candied pecans evenly across the surface, adding a beautiful and delicious crunch.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the pie to allow the toppings to firm up slightly. This pie can also be frozen for later enjoyment, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert option.
As you slice into this decadent creamy pumpkin pie with candied pecans, relish the delightful contrast between the smooth, spiced pumpkin filling and the sweet, crunchy pecan topping. The harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes this pie a standout dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season. Whether served at a family gathering or a festive celebration, it promises to be a hit with everyone who tastes it. The simplicity of the recipe combined with the luxurious results ensures that you can confidently add this pie to your holiday tradition year after year. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors and the joy it brings to your special occasions!
