Description
Heavenly angel pecan pie delivers Southern charm with its cloud-like meringue and rich, buttery pecans. Silky custard nestled between crisp layers creates an irresistible dessert you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup round cracker crumbs (such as Ritz)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
Garnish:
- Whipped cream, for topping
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the workspace by preheating the oven to 350°F and lightly coating a 9-inch pie pan with cooking spray.
- Whip egg whites in a large bowl until they become frothy and voluminous.
- Gradually incorporate sugar into the egg whites, whisking thoroughly between each addition to create a smooth meringue.
- Add vanilla extract and continue beating until the mixture forms soft, glossy peaks.
- Transform round crackers into fine, delicate crumbs using a food processor.
- Gently fold cracker crumbs and a portion of pecans into the meringue, maintaining the mixture’s airy texture.
- Transfer the meringue into the prepared pie pan, carefully spreading it evenly and creating raised edges along the sides.
- Bake the meringue crust for approximately 30 minutes until it achieves a light golden color and feels set.
- Remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack, ensuring a crisp texture.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and almond extracts.
- Whip the cream mixture using a handheld mixer until it forms thick, sturdy peaks.
- Spread the whipped cream filling smoothly across the cooled meringue crust.
- Garnish the pie’s perimeter with the remaining chopped pecans, creating an elegant decorative border.
- For serving, optionally add an extra dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Refrigerate the pie and consume within three days for optimal freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Egg White Magic: Beating egg whites to soft peaks creates the delicate, cloud-like meringue base that gives this pie its unique angelic texture.
- Cracker Crumb Secret: Crushing round crackers provides a light, crisp foundation that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
- Pecan Placement Matters: Strategically sprinkling pecans on the edge adds a delightful crunch and beautiful presentation to the pie.
- Whipping Wisdom: Ensure heavy cream is cold for the most stable and fluffy whipped cream filling that holds its shape beautifully.
- Chill Factor: Refrigerating the pie helps set the filling and intensifies the flavors, making it even more delicious when served cold.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: This dessert can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal option for stress-free entertaining and special occasions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 105 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 37 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg