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Buttermilk Pecan Pie

As seen in: Thanksgiving Dinner Recipes: Create the Perfect Holiday Feast

Buttermilk gives this Southern pecan pie a creamy, tart edge that pops. Toasted nuts make the flavor richer, and the filling hits the sweet spot. It's a cool makeover of a beloved favorite.

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Refreshed on Mon, 19 May 2025 16:45:48 GMT
You see a slice of rich pecan pie on a simple plate, with whole pecans stacked on the top and a fork nearby. A few loose nuts are scattered on a wooden table. Save it
You see a slice of rich pecan pie on a simple plate, with whole pecans stacked on the top and a fork nearby. A few loose nuts are scattered on a wooden table. | iamcooker.com

Hey, check out this dreamy American buttermilk pecan pie that gives an old-school favorite a rich, creamy twist. It’s got a tangy custard filling—thanks to the buttermilk—and plenty of toasted pecans for extra crunch. Everything’s tucked inside a buttery, flaky crust. This treat totally brings the wow factor for any special event or whenever you want something sweet and unique.

Irresistible Holiday Treat

This one’s no boring pecan pie. The buttermilk brings a bright, tangy kick that tames the sweetness just right. Toasted pecans bring that killer crunch and, honestly, that flaky crust ties it all up perfectly. Folks will keep asking for more, so you might as well get ready to share your secrets.

Must-Have Ingredients

  • Main Layer: Use a single 9-inch pie crust—homemade is awesome, but a store-bought one handles the job too.
  • Pecan Boost: Toast and chop up a cup of pecans for the ultimate nutty bite.
  • Creamy Set: Three big eggs are what firm up the filling just right.
  • Sugary Duo: Go half and half with brown sugar and regular sugar, each half a cup.
  • Buttery Finish: A half-cup of softened unsalted butter gets things extra rich.
  • Tang Factor: Pour in a cup of buttermilk for that signature zippy flavor.
  • Flavor Lift: A teaspoon of vanilla makes all the difference.
  • Everything In Sync: Don’t forget a pinch of salt and some flour so it all comes together.

Easy Pie Making

Prep the Base
Roll out your pie crust, snug it in your pan, and pop it in the back of the fridge while you keep going.
Pecans Get Toasty
Spread them on a tray, bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes till they smell toasty, then chop up small.
Filling Time
Whisk up the eggs, sugars, and butter. Next, mix in buttermilk, vanilla, salt, flour, then fold in your pecans.
To The Oven
Pour everything in the crust and bake for about 1 hour 20 minutes. You’re looking for just a tiny jiggle in the middle when it’s ready.

Winning Pie Secrets

Make sure your butter and eggs aren’t ice cold—room temp is best for smooth filling. Go for that homemade crust if you’ve got time, but don’t sweat it if not. And really, toasting those pecans takes the flavor up a notch—don’t skip it.

Get a Head Start

Make life easier by prepping your crust a couple days ahead, or whip up the filling the night before. Finished pie chills nicely in the fridge for up to 4 days. To stash leftovers in the freezer, just wrap slices well—good for up to 2 months.

Try These Twists

Big on chocolate? Stir in some melted bittersweet chocolate to shake things up. Or switch in walnuts or almonds for a different vibe. Top with whipped cream or scoop on vanilla ice cream to make it even more awesome.

Freshly baked pecan pie with a golden, flaky edge and a glossy, nutty top layer—pecans scattered everywhere. Save it
Freshly baked pecan pie with a golden, flaky edge and a glossy, nutty top layer—pecans scattered everywhere. | iamcooker.com

Common Questions

→ Why toast the pecans first?

Roasting the nuts lets their flavor shine by releasing their oils and making them taste bolder.

→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?

You sure can! It’s easy and works fine. The real tip is to chill whatever crust you use before adding your mix.

→ How do I know when it's done?

When the center barely moves and isn't super loose, it's ready. The pie will firm up more once it cools.

→ Why let it cool for hours?

Giving it plenty of time to chill helps the filling set, so slicing it is a breeze.

→ Can this be made ahead?

Definitely! It’ll last up to 4 days in the fridge, and the taste is best if you let it sit out a bit before serving.

Buttermilk Pecan Pie

Classic pecan pie gets a boost from tangy buttermilk and golden toasted pecans. That flaky, homemade crust seals the deal.

Preparation
30 Mins
Cooking Duration
80 Mins
Complete Duration
110 Mins
By: sofia


Complexity: Moderate

Origin: American

Output: 8 Portions (One pie)

Diet Types: Plant-Based (with dairy/eggs)

What You'll Need

01 One ready-to-use pie crust.
02 One and a half cups of whole pecans.
03 Three eggs, large size.
04 A cup of white sugar.
05 Two-thirds cup of dark brown sugar.
06 Half a cup of softened butter.
07 A cup of buttermilk.
08 One tablespoon of vanilla.
09 Half a teaspoon of salt.
10 A fourth cup of regular flour.
11 Optional: vanilla ice cream.

Preparation Steps

01 Step

Set your oven to 350°F. Scatter pecans on a tray and toast for 10 to 12 minutes until aromatic. Chop coarsely and leave them aside.

02 Step

Lay out the pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch tin. Chill in the fridge until you're ready to use.

03 Step

Combine eggs, both kinds of sugar, and butter with a whisk. Stir in buttermilk, vanilla, and salt. Gradually blend in the flour until lump-free. Gently mix in the pecans.

04 Step

Add the filling over the crust. Bake for about 80 minutes, or until the center is firm. Let it cool for a few hours.

05 Step

Serve cool or at room temp. Great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you like.

Additional Tips

  1. Toasting nuts intensifies their taste. The filling needs to fully cool to set. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let it warm up to room temp before slicing. Keep your crust cold while working on the filling.

Required Equipment

  • Pie dish, 9-inch.
  • Tray for toasting.
  • Big bowl for mixing.
  • Whisk for stirring.

Allergen Notice

Review ingredients for possible allergens and seek professional medical advice if uncertain.
  • Dairy (from butter and buttermilk).
  • Gluten (from flour and pie crust).
  • Eggs are included.
  • Contains pecans, a type of tree nut.

Nutritional Information (Each Portion)

Consider these values as estimates rather than definitive health guidance.
  • Energy: 485
  • Fat Content: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Protein Content: 7 g