No-bake pecan pie Cream cheese pecan pie Easy pecan dessert Maple pecan cream pie Whipped pecan pie Southern pecan pie twist Creamy pecan pie recipe Pecan cheesecake pie

My Best Favorite Pecan Cream Pie

by

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about a slice of pecan pie. But what happens when you take the warmth of that classic flavor and pair it with the cool, creamy texture of a no-bake cheesecake? You get the ultimate holiday or anytime dessert: Pecan Cream Pie.

This recipe for My Best Favorite Pecan Cream Pie is a dreamy, indulgent, and downright luxurious take on the Southern classic. It combines the crunch of toasted pecans, the velvety richness of cream cheese, a whisper of maple sweetness, and a cloud-like whipped cream layer—all nestled in a buttery pie crust. Best of all? It’s surprisingly easy to make and requires no oven time beyond baking the crust.

Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a family get-together, or just a weekend treat, this pie never fails to impress. Perfect for both beginner bakers and pie pros, this guide will walk you through every step.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • Pie weights or dried beans (for blind baking)

For the Whipped Cream:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup real maple syrup
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Pecan Mix:

  • 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped (divided—1 cup in the filling, 1/2 cup for topping)

Preparation

Step 1: Blind Bake the Crust

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place your unbaked 9-inch pie crust into a pie plate. Crimp or flute the edges as desired.
  • Line the crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then fill with pie weights or dried beans to prevent puffing.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Remove the weights and paper, then return the crust to the oven for 5-7 more minutes until the bottom is fully baked.
  • Let the crust cool completely on a wire rack before filling.

Step 2: Whip the Cream

  • In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream.
  • Add powdered sugar gradually while beating.
  • Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (when the cream holds its shape).
  • Set aside in the refrigerator until needed.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Base

  • In another large bowl, add the softened cream cheese.
  • Beat using a hand mixer or stand mixer until completely smooth and fluffy.
  • Add brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt.
  • Continue beating until the mixture is smooth, well-blended, and slightly glossy.

Step 4: Combine Whipped Cream and Pecan Filling

  • Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula.
  • Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream—use slow, folding motions.
  • Once well combined, stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans, reserving the rest for topping.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

  • Pour the fluffy pecan cream filling into the cooled pie crust, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of pecans over the top, gently pressing them in to stick.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.

Variation

  • Graham Cracker Crust: Use a graham cracker crust instead of traditional pie dough for a nutty, cookie-like base.
  • Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling or drizzle chocolate syrup over the finished pie.
  • Bourbon Boost: Add 1 tbsp of bourbon to the cream cheese mixture for a boozy Southern kick.
  • No-Bake Crust: Use a no-bake Oreo or vanilla wafer crust to save time and add flavor contrast.

COOKING Note

  • Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Whipping the cream until stiff peaks ensures a light and airy texture that holds up after chilling.
  • Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their nutty aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator.
  • Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
  • Pair with a cup of hot coffee or cinnamon-spiced tea for a cozy finish.
  • Garnish with a drizzle of maple syrup or caramel sauce for added flair.

Tips

  • For a clean slice, use a sharp knife and wipe it between each cut.
  • If you’re short on time, use store-bought whipped topping (though homemade is always best!).
  • Make the pie a day ahead to allow maximum flavor development.
  • Use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup, for best results.
  • If using a homemade pie crust, prick the base with a fork before blind baking to prevent bubbles.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes (for crust)

Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (includes chilling)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 8 slices)

  • Calories: 495
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

FAQs

1. Can I use a pre-made crust?

Yes! A store-bought crust works great if you’re short on time. Just make sure to blind bake it first.

2. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s best made a day in advance so the filling can fully set.

3. How should I store leftovers?

Keep the pie covered and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not freeze, as the texture may change.

4. Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes, but pecans provide a sweeter, buttery flavor. Walnuts add a bit of bitterness and stronger nuttiness.

5. Is this pie overly sweet?

No! The brown sugar and maple syrup offer sweetness without being cloying, especially when balanced with tangy cream cheese.

6. Can I freeze this pie?

It’s not recommended to freeze cream-based pies, as they can separate upon thawing.

Conclusion

This Pecan Cream Pie is everything a dessert should be—creamy, crunchy, rich, and easy to prepare. From the golden, buttery crust to the soft, luscious center loaded with nutty goodness, each bite delivers a delightful experience that lingers long after the last forkful.

It’s a foolproof pie with showstopping appeal, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a moment of sweet indulgence. Make it for the holidays, a birthday, or just because—it never goes out of season.

Ready to try it? Whip up this stunning Pecan Cream Pie and bring smiles to every table it graces!

Leave a Comment