This Pumpkin Pecan Praline Pie combines creamy, spiced pumpkin filling with a crunchy pecan praline topping for an irresistible fall dessert. With its mix of textures and flavors, this pie is perfect for holiday gatherings and makes a memorable twist on the traditional pumpkin pie.
Did You Know?
Pumpkin Pecan Praline Pie adds a unique flair to the classic pumpkin pie. The creamy pumpkin layer is topped with a praline mixture of pecans, butter, and brown sugar, creating a sweet, nutty crust that caramelizes as it bakes. The contrasting textures of smooth pumpkin and crunchy praline make this pie a favorite among those who enjoy a little extra richness and flavor in their holiday desserts.
Yield
8 servings
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
2-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Pumpkin Filling
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Praline Topping
3/4 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
Instructions
Make the Pie Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix just until the dough starts to come together. Form into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and place it in a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired.
Personal Tip: For a crispier crust, brush with a little beaten egg before adding the filling.
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Make the Pumpkin Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Add the eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully combined.
Pour and Bake the Filling
Pour the pumpkin filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Personal Tip: Avoid overbaking, as it may cause cracks. The filling will continue to set as it cools.
Make the Praline Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon (if using). Stir until pecans are well coated.
Personal Tip: Lightly toasting the pecans first can bring out even more flavor.
Add the Praline Topping
Remove the pie from the oven and carefully sprinkle the praline mixture evenly over the top. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and caramelized.
Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This gives the praline topping time to set and ensures cleaner slices.
Personal Tip: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 320, Protein: 5g, Carbohydrates: 44g, Fiber: 3g, Net Carbohydrates: 41g, Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Cholesterol: 85mg, Sodium: 260mg, Sugars: 29g, Glycemic Index: Medium
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
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Use Fresh Spices
Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of the pumpkin filling. If your spices have been sitting for a while, consider replacing them. -
Toast the Pecans
Toasting pecans before adding them to the topping brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. -
Buy Pumpkin Puree in Bulk
Many stores offer discounts on canned pumpkin during the fall. Stock up to save for all your holiday recipes. -
Make the Pie Crust Ahead
Pie dough can be made and refrigerated up to two days in advance, saving time on baking day. -
Keep the Praline Topping Crunchy
If you’re making the pie ahead, consider adding the praline topping just before serving or baking it separately to keep it crunchy. -
Freeze Leftovers
This pie freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. -
Experiment with Different Nuts
Pecans are traditional, but walnuts or almonds can add unique flavor to the praline topping. -
Add a Touch of Bourbon
A tablespoon of bourbon in the pumpkin filling adds a subtle depth that complements the spices and pecans. -
Watch the Baking Time
Keep an eye on the pie during the second bake. The praline topping can go from caramelized to overly crisp if left too long. -
Serve Chilled or Room Temperature
Pumpkin Praline Pie tastes delicious at room temperature or chilled, making it easy to prepare ahead and serve later.
Let’s Learn About Pumpkin for Baking
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Sugar Pumpkins
For homemade puree, use sugar pumpkins, which are smaller and sweeter than large carving pumpkins. -
Canned vs. Fresh Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent, while fresh pumpkin puree has a slightly milder flavor. Both work well in pie. -
Pumpkin Puree vs. Pumpkin Pie Filling
Always use pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), as it’s unsweetened and allows you to control the flavors