Description
Pecan Cheesecake Pie is a decadent dessert combining a creamy cheesecake layer with a sweet, nutty pecan topping baked in a buttery pie crust. This rich pie offers a perfect balance of smooth cream cheese filling and crunchy caramelized pecans, ideal for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 9-inch pie crust
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pecan Topping
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the 9-inch pie crust into a pie dish, ensuring it fits snugly and is ready for filling.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or whisk.
- Add Sugar: Add 1/2 cup granulated sugar to the cream cheese and continue mixing until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined.
- Incorporate Egg and Vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Fill Pie Crust with Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Prepare Pecan Topping Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup light corn syrup, 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
- Add Pecans: Stir in 1 1/2 cups pecan halves to the mixture, coating them fully with the sugary blend.
- Layer Pecan Mixture: Carefully pour the pecan mixture over the cheesecake layer in the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes until the edges of the pie are set and the center slightly jiggles when shaken gently.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pie from the oven and cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate it for at least 4 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Avoid overbaking; the center should still jiggle slightly when done.
- Refrigeration time is essential for the pie to set and slice cleanly.
- You can substitute pecan halves with chopped pecans if preferred.
- Use a glass or metal pie dish for best baking results.