Pecan Cream Pie

The Ultimate Pecan Cream Pie — Silky, Nutty & Irresistible

A light, mousse-like pecan cream filling tucked in a buttery graham crust and finished with pillowy whipped cream and toasted pecans.

Why this Pecan Cream Pie is irresistible

This Pecan Cream Pie delivers the best of both worlds: the rich, toasty flavor of toasted pecans and the airy, cool texture of a cream-cheese-based filling. It’s not heavy like traditional pecan pies — instead it’s light, creamy, and extremely shareable, making it ideal for holidays and entertaining.

Ingredients (with roles)

For the crust

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs — forms the crunchy, slightly sweet base that supports the filling.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar — balances the richness and helps the crust bind.
• ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter — gives the crust its buttery flavor and firmness when chilled.

For the pecan cream filling

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened — provides a tangy, stable base and luxurious mouthfeel.
• 1 cup powdered sugar — sweetens evenly without graininess.
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract — lifts and rounds the flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream — whipped into peaks to lighten the filling into a mousse-like texture.
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted — adds nutty depth and crunchy contrast.

For the whipped topping

• 1 cup heavy cream — whipped for a silky topping.
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar — a gentle sweetener for the cream.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract — complements the pie’s vanilla notes.
• Extra toasted pecans — garnish for texture and presentation.

Step-by-step directions

1. Make the crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and melted butter until moistened. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish (bottom and sides). Bake 8–10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Cool completely.
2. Toast the pecans: Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast 6–8 minutes at 350°F (175°C), stirring once. Let cool. (Toasting intensifies the nut oils and flavor — don’t skip it.)
3. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla, beating until creamy. In a chilled bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and airy. Fold in the toasted pecans, reserving some for garnish.
4. Assemble and chill: Spoon the pecan cream into the cooled crust and smooth the top. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, so the filling sets and flavors meld.
5. Finish with whipped topping: Whip 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla to soft peaks. Spread or pipe over the chilled pie. Garnish with the reserved toasted pecans.

Pro tips for perfect results

• Chill bowls & beaters: Refrigerate the bowl and beaters for 10–15 minutes before whipping cream to get maximum volume.
• Full-fat ingredients: Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the best texture and flavor.
• Fold gently: Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese with a rubber spatula to keep the filling light and airy.
• Make ahead: This pie improves after a night in the fridge — perfect for entertaining.
• Flavor variations: Stir a tablespoon of bourbon or maple syrup into the filling for a sophisticated twist.

Serving suggestions

Serve slices chilled with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair with hot coffee, sweet tea, or a crisp dessert wine for an elegant finish. This pie is an excellent finale after roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a seasonal vegetable tart.

Why this recipe stands out

This Pecan Cream Pie is beloved because it balances texture — crunchy pecans and crust — with a silky, lightly sweet filling. It’s straightforward to make, scales well, and presents beautifully, making it an ideal holiday or special-occasion dessert.

Quick recipe facts

• Prep time: 20 minutes (+ chilling)
• Cook time: 10 minutes (crust + toasting)
• Chill time: 4 hours to overnight
• Yield: 8–10 servings

Final summary

Pecan Cream Pie is a deceptively simple dessert that delivers a gourmet experience: a buttery crust, cloud-like pecan cream filling, and glossy whipped topping studded with toasted pecans. Make it ahead, serve chilled, and watch it become a family favorite — a dessert that is both elegant and incredibly comforting.