DEEP SOUTH BOURBON PECAN PIE

DEEP SOUTH BOURBON PECAN PIE

A family favorite in our circle is this wonderful Deep South Bourbon Pecan Pie.  Where this is certainly not a new recipe, it’s been one that has made its way to family gatherings on both sides of Lake Michigan, and always seems to be enjoyed.  My hope is that as you gather yours around you during the holiday season you’ll be interested in trying it as well. 

Not so long ago, this little pie became a staple for Thanksgiving in my family.  In fact, it was the first pie that I brought to my very first Thanksgiving after moving to Chicago in 2000.  It’s seen plenty of mileage on it, and can possibly be said to be a nearly fool-proof way to get to invite back to anyone’s home for another visit that includes a meal and good company.

Pecan pie can be somewhat problematic, despite it seeming relatively easy to throw together, and it’s equally simplistic components.  This pie is a great one if you’re interested in capturing some true essence and flavor of The South, and without all the handwringing on whether the filling will set completely.  It’s a fantastic end to any meal and pairs well with just about anything and is a fantastic colder weather flavor.

DEEP SOUTH BOURBON PECAN PIE:

·         1 (9-inch) Deep-Dish Pie Shell, Unbaked

·         1 Cup Brown Sugar

·         ¼ tsp. Cinnamon

·         ¼ tsp. Cloves

·         3 Tbs.  Butter, Melted

·         1/2 Cup Dark Corn Syrup

·         3 Large Eggs, Beaten

·         2 1/2 Cups Pecan Halves, Crushed

·         2 Tbs. Bourbon

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

In a medium bowl, stir together the brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and melted butter.  Add the corn syrup, eggs, pecans, and bourbon, and stir until all ingredients are combined.

Pour mixture into an unbaked pie shell, and place on a heavy-duty cookie sheet.   Bake for 10 minutes.

Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees , and continue to bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until pie is set. Remove from oven and cool on a wire rack.

**Garnish Options:  To create a nice, finished look to this pie, consider finishing the pie top with 2 cups of pecan halves to decorate the outer edge of the pie shell, and adding a star in the center.  Another option is to use seasonal cookie cutters to cut additional shapes out of pie pastry dough like that pictured above.