Molasses Pecan Pie

Molasses Pecan Pie Recipe from the USA - Deliciously Sweet and Nutty

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Molasses Pecan Pie is a classic Southern dessert that combines the rich flavors of molasses and pecans in a sweet and gooey filling. This indulgent pie is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.

History

Pecan pie has been a popular dessert in the United States since the 19th century, with recipes dating back to the early 20th century. The addition of molasses to the traditional pecan pie recipe adds a depth of flavor and richness that sets this dessert apart.

Ingredients

4 beaten eggs
0.75 cup brown sugar
0.5 tsp salt
0.75 cup light corn syrup
0.75 cup molasses
1 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp vanilla
1.5 cup pecan halves
2 unbaked pie crusts

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, salt, corn syrup, molasses, butter, and vanilla.
Add the pecans to the mixture and pour it into the prepared pie shells.
Place the pie shells in the oven and immediately reduce the heat to 350°F (177°C).
Bake for 45 minutes, then allow the pies to cool before serving.

Variations

You can add a splash of bourbon to the filling for a boozy twist.
For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds.
You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the pie for a sweet and salty contrast.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to preheat the oven before starting the recipe to ensure even baking.

- To prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy, you can blind bake the crust before adding the filling.

- For a more intense molasses flavor, you can use dark molasses instead of light molasses.

- To prevent the pecans from burning, you can cover the pie with foil halfway through the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Molasses Pecan Pie is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to mix the filling ingredients thoroughly to ensure a smooth and even texture.

- To prevent the pie crust from burning, you can cover the edges with foil during baking.

- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure that the filling sets properly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have molasses, you can substitute with maple syrup or honey.

- You can use store-bought pie crusts or make your own from scratch.

- If you're allergic to pecans, you can use other nuts like walnuts or almonds.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for Molasses Pecan Pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake the pie. This can save you time on the day of serving.

Presentation Ideas

You can garnish the pie with additional pecan halves or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a beautiful presentation. Serving the pie on a decorative platter or cake stand can also elevate the presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Molasses Pecan Pie pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a classic dessert experience. For a more indulgent pairing, you can serve the pie with a glass of bourbon or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Molasses Pecan Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Molasses Pecan Pie contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Molasses Pecan Pie contains approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Molasses Pecan Pie contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Molasses Pecan Pie contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Molasses Pecan Pie is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin E.

Alergens

Molasses Pecan Pie contains eggs, nuts, and wheat (in the pie crust), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Molasses Pecan Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Molasses Pecan Pie is a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of molasses and pecans in a sweet and gooey filling. This classic Southern dessert is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings, and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Martha in the small town of Oakwood. She was known far and wide for her baking skills, and I had always admired her ability to whip up delicious desserts from scratch.

As I sat at her kitchen table, sipping on a glass of sweet tea, Aunt Martha pulled out an old, weathered cookbook from the shelf. It was filled with handwritten notes and splatters of batter, a testament to the countless hours she had spent perfecting her craft.

She flipped through the pages, her fingers stopping on a recipe for Molasses Pecan Pie. The picture showed a golden crust overflowing with sticky pecans, and my mouth immediately began to water.

"I learned how to make this pie from a dear friend of mine many years ago," Aunt Martha explained, her eyes sparkling with memories. "It's become a family favorite ever since."

I watched intently as she gathered the ingredients, measuring each one with precision and care. The scent of molasses and toasted pecans filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in the kitchen.

As she mixed the filling and poured it into the pie crust, I couldn't help but ask, "Aunt Martha, how did you learn to make this pie?"

She smiled, a twinkle in her eye. "Well, it all started when I was a young girl, just like you. I used to spend summers with my grandmother out in the country, where she taught me everything she knew about cooking and baking."

Aunt Martha went on to tell me about her grandmother, a formidable woman with a fierce love for her family and a passion for good food. She would spend hours in the kitchen, teaching Aunt Martha how to make pies, cakes, and cookies from scratch.

"It was hard work, but oh, it was worth it," Aunt Martha reminisced. "I learned so much from her, not just about cooking, but about life and love and family."

As the pie baked in the oven, filling the house with its sweet aroma, Aunt Martha shared more stories about her grandmother and the lessons she had learned from her. I listened intently, soaking up every word like a sponge.

When the timer finally dinged, Aunt Martha pulled the pie out of the oven, its crust golden and bubbling. She let it cool on the counter before slicing into it, revealing a gooey, nutty filling that made my mouth water.

We enjoyed the pie together, savoring each bite and sharing stories of our own. As I licked my fingers clean, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished memory for me, just as it had for Aunt Martha.

And so, that day in Oakwood, I learned not just how to make a Molasses Pecan Pie, but also the importance of family, tradition, and the joy that comes from sharing a homemade dessert with loved ones. It's a lesson I carry with me to this day, thanks to my dear Aunt Martha and her delicious recipes.