Here’s a truly outstanding Pecan Cream Pie recipe that’s rich, creamy, and full of that nutty Southern charm. It’s not your traditional baked pecan pie—it’s more of a no-bake, cool-and-creamy dessert with a crunchy pecan topping. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want to wow people with a twist on a classic.
🥧 Best Favorite Pecan Cream Pie Recipe
⭐ What Makes It Special?
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Creamy, custard-like filling with a hint of caramel and vanilla
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Buttery, crunchy pecan topping
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No corn syrup like traditional pecan pie
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Simple to make—no need to bake the filling
📝 Ingredients
Crust:
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1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (or vanilla wafers for a twist)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
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1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 tsp maple extract (optional, but amazing)
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1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
Pecan Topping:
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1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup heavy cream
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2 tbsp butter
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Pinch of salt
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1/2 tsp vanilla extract
🥣 Instructions
1. Make the Crust
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
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Press into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
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Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Filling
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
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Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and maple extract. Beat until creamy.
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In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
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Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
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Spread into cooled crust and refrigerate at least 4 hours (or overnight for best texture).
3. Make the Pecan Topping
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, cream, and salt.
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Cook and stir until mixture begins to bubble and thicken slightly (about 3–4 minutes).
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Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and pecans.
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Cool to room temperature, then spoon over the chilled pie just before serving.
✅ Tips for Success
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Toast the pecans in the oven (350°F for 7–8 minutes) to boost flavor.
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Chill the pie for at least 4 hours to firm up the filling.
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Add a little bourbon (1 tbsp) to the pecan topping for a grown-up twist.
📦 Storage
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Keep refrigerated. Best eaten within 3–4 days.
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The topping can be added fresh each time you serve for best texture.