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For the crust:
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1 pre-made or homemade 9-inch pie crust (chilled and unbaked)
For the cheesecake layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the pecan pie topping:
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1 cup chopped pecans
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1/2 cup light corn syrup or maple syrup
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1/2 cup packed brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons melted butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Pecan Cheesecake Pie: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges as desired, then set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well blended and creamy. Pour the mixture into the prepared crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Mix the Pecan Topping
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup (or maple syrup), eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Once fully combined, stir in the chopped pecans.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Carefully spoon the pecan mixture over the cheesecake layer. Spread it gently so the pecans are evenly distributed across the top. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any overflow, then bake for 50–60 minutes. The center should be set and no longer jiggle when lightly shaken.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Remove from the oven and let the pie cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours (overnight is ideal). This helps the layers firm up and enhances the flavor.
Pro Tips for Success
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Cream cheese and eggs blend more smoothly when at room temperature, ensuring a creamy, lump-free cheesecake layer.
Don’t Overmix the Pecan Layer
Once you’ve added the pecans, stir gently. Overmixing can create foam and disrupt the topping’s texture during baking.
Bake on the Lower Rack
To ensure even baking and avoid a soggy crust, position your pie in the lower third of your oven.
Let It Rest
This pie needs time to set. Don’t skip the chilling step—it’s essential for clean slices and a firm cheesecake center.
Flavor Variations to Try
Chocolate Swirl
Add 1/4 cup melted chocolate to the cheesecake layer and swirl with a knife before adding the pecan topping.
Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie
Replace corn syrup with maple syrup and add a splash of bourbon to the pecan topping for a deeper, adult-friendly flavor.
Coconut Pecan Cheesecake Pie
Add 1/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut to the pecan mixture for a tropical twist.
Mini Pies
Use a muffin tin to create individual servings—perfect for parties or portion control.
How to Serve and Store Pecan Cheesecake Pie
Serve slices chilled or at room temperature. For an extra touch, top with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It pairs beautifully with coffee or a glass of dessert wine.
To store, keep the pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the entire pie or individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Health and Nutrition Notes
While this is definitely an indulgent dessert, it’s made with real ingredients—no artificial preservatives or colors. If you want to lighten it up slightly, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and a bit less sugar. However, for full holiday flair, enjoy it as-is and savor every bite.
Conclusion: A Decadent Dessert Worth Every Bite
Pecan cheesecake pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and tradition. By merging two iconic recipes into one, you get the best of both worlds in a single bite: the velvety smoothness of cheesecake and the rich, nutty sweetness of pecan pie. It’s the kind of treat that becomes a family tradition, requested year after year at special gatherings.
Whether you’re baking it for Thanksgiving, bringing it to a potluck, or just treating yourself to something extraordinary, this pie delivers on every level. With its rich layers, stunning presentation, and crowd-pleasing flavor, pecan cheesecake pie is bound to become your new go-to dessert. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without it.
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