A Deeper Look into Texas Pecan Pie - One of America's Most Famous Desserts
Discover > Truly Texan > A Deeper Look into Texas Pecan Pie - One of America's Most Famous Desserts
There's just something about pecan pie.
It's a uniquely American dish, invented right here in the South. And Texans have long had a memorable love affair with this delicious treat. Maybe it's the combination of a crispy, nutty exterior and oozy interior, all encased in a perfect buttery pie crust. Or perhaps it's the fact that pecans (how long do pecans last?) are our state nut. But we can't get enough of this tasty dessert for whatever reason. So here in Texas, you'll find pecan pies of all varieties - from traditional recipes passed down for generations to create new takes on this classic dish. But one thing is for sure: pecan pie is always delicious, whatever form it takes.
Read on for more juicy bits about this Texan favorite and how it came about.
America’s Native Nut
Pecans have the unique distinction of being the only major tree nut indigenous to North America. The stately trees that produce them, which can grow to over 100 feet tall and live over a thousand years old, first took root in the wild along rich fertile river banks more than 100 million years ago.
Pecans are believed to be a keystone species in the Southern ecosystem because they support such a diversity of wildlife. Over 70 species of animals, including squirrels, deer, raccoons, opossums, woodpeckers, and jays, depend on pecans for food during some part of their life cycle.
Pecans are not only an important food source for wildlife but also for people. For centuries, Native Americans relied on pecans as a staple in their diet, and today they are enjoyed by people worldwide.
Texans take particular pride in this delicious nut as it is native to our state and has become synonymous with Texas culture.
A Brief History of America’s Favorite Pie
Pecan pie is a quintessentially American dish; its roots can be traced back to the Lone Star State. The first printed recipes for pecan pies began appearing in Texas cookbooks in the 1870s and 1880s. The first recipe that closely resembles what we know today as pecan pie was published in 1898 in a cookbook of a St. Louis charity church, written by a Texas woman. Since then, the popularity of pecan pie has only grown. And it is now enjoyed by people all across the country.
In the 1920s, pecan pie entered the mainstream as a uniquely American dessert. That's when the manufacturer of Karo syrup decided to print a pecan pie recipe on the product label packaging. The recipe was an instant hit, and pecan pie soon became a national favorite.
Pecan pie is a type of "sugar pie" made with corn syrup (how long does corn syrup last?) or sugar (how long does sugar last?), eggs, butter, and pecans. The filling is thick and gooey, and the pecans provide a crunchy contrast. Pecan pie is often served with whipped cream or ice cream. The dish originated in the Southern United States, and its popularity spread throughout the country.
Today, pecan pie is a staple of American cuisine and can be found on nationwide menus. While the exact origins of pecan pie are unknown, its popularity is undeniable. So, give this American classic a try the next time you're in the mood for something sweet.
Pecans can be easily found in the market, especially during the holiday season. However, there's a wide array of nut sizes, colors, varieties, and prices available that some consumers find overwhelming to decide what to buy. TexasRealFood explores details on Pecan storage, production, and packing.
Southern Through And Through
Texans are a proud bunch, and we love celebrating everything that makes our great state unique. One of the things that make us most proud is our pecan pies. Pecan pie is the official state dessert of Texas, and we celebrate it every year on November 26th, National Pecan Pie Day.
Pecans are synonymous with Texas because pecan trees grow throughout the Texas Hill Country and bear fruit during the fall, just in time for the winter holidays. Moreover, pecans are a native Texas ingredient - they were first harvested by Native Americans and then later by Spanish missionaries.
The first recorded recipe for Texas pecan pie was likely brought to Texas by French settlers. Since then, the formula has been adapted and changed by generations of Texans, but the essential ingredients remain the same: fresh pecans, sugar, butter, eggs, and a flaky pastry crust.
Pecan Pie, a Thanksgiving Staple
There's no denying that this dessert is a true Thanksgiving staple. The humble Pecan may not seem like much, but this little nut is a crucial ingredient in one of America's most beloved holiday pies - pecan pie. Pecan harvesting begins in late September and extends into November, making the timing just right to fuel pecan pie baking for the Thanksgiving feast.
The Texas pecan is one of the most popular nuts (how long do nuts last?) in America. It's not hard to see why: they're delicious and versatile. But you might wonder, "What should I do with my seasonal Texas Pecans? TexasRealFood gives tips on Making the Best out of Texas Seasonal Pecans at Home.
Top Places for Pecan Pie in Texas
There's no denying that Texans love their pecan pie. This decadent, sweet dessert is a staple in the Lone Star State, and plenty of bakeries and restaurants serve up their unique take on the classic recipe. Here are a few of the best places to get your pecan pie fix in Texas.
Tiny Pies
If you're ever in Austin, you must stop by Tiny Pies. The pecan pie is delicious and the perfect size to take on the go. The best part about Tiny Pies is that they're not only handmade but handheld. You can enjoy a fresh, warm pie without sitting at a restaurant. They're baked in Austin, so you know they only use the finest ingredients.
If you can't make it to Austin, don't worry! Tiny Pies ships nationwide, so you can enjoy their pies no matter where you live. So, head to Tiny Pies next time you're craving a delicious pecan pie. You won't be disappointed!
Website: https://tinypies.com
Emporium Pies
Emporium Pies is a specialty pie shop known for its delicious pecan pies. The shop has locations in Oak Cliff, Deep Ellum, Fort Worth, and McKinney, Texas, and makes local deliveries in the Dallas Metro area.
Emporium Pies uses only the finest ingredients in its pies, including fresh-picked pecans from Texas. The pies are baked fresh daily and are perfect for any occasion. So whether you're looking for a special treat for yourself or a gift for someone special, Emporium Pies has the perfect pie for you.
Website: https://emporiumpies.com
Royers Pie Haven
Royers Pie Haven is the perfect place to relax with friends, especially if you want a delicious slice of pie. The shop is under the oak trees on Henkel Square, and they're known for their pecan pie.
The pies are made fresh daily and offer various flavors, including chocolate, cherry, and strawberry. In addition to pie, they also serve coffee and tea. The shop has a cozy atmosphere, and the staff is friendly. So if you're ever in the area, stop by for a slice of pie and a cup of coffee.
Website: https://www.royerspiehaven.com
Flying Saucer Pie Company
Flying Saucer Pie Company's goal is to serve delicious pies that are handmade fresh every day. They use high-quality ingredients, time-tested recipes, and never use preservatives. So stop by for a single slice or a whole pecan pie! One bite, and you'll agree: the pies are out of this world!
The Dallas Morning News said, "The Flying Saucer has the best pies in Dallas." And we think they might be right! See for yourself why our pies have people coming back for more. We guarantee you'll be hooked after just one bite. So what are you waiting for? Come on by today!
Website: https://flyingsaucerpieshop.com
Fredericksburg Pie Company
If you're a fan of pecan pie, Fredericksburg is the place to be! This small town in Texas is home to some of the best pecan pies, made with fresh ingredients and a lot of love. And what goes better with pecan pie than a cup of coffee?
At Fredericksburg Pie Company, you can enjoy a slice of your favorite pie with their private-label coffee. Whether you prefer to sit inside or out, there's plenty of seating available so you can relax and enjoy your meal. So come down to Fredericksburg and treat yourself to some delicious pecan pie!
Website: https://www.fbgpie.com
Gaido’s
There's nothing better than a big slice of Texas pecan pie, and at Gaido's in Galveston, they know how to do it right. The secret to their success is using only the finest ingredients, including organic pecans from the Rio Grande Valley and dark chocolate ganache.
The pie is topped with warm caramel and vanilla ice cream, making it the perfect treat for any time of year. So next time you're in the mood for something sweet, stop by Gaido's and try their legendary pecan pie.
Website: http://www.gaidos.com
Berdoll Pecan Farm
There's no one better than Berdoll's when it comes to pecan pies. Their pies are made fresh daily in their commercial kitchens, using only the freshest pecans. They offer a variety of pastries, including those with large pecan halves (how long do pecan halves last?), chopped pecans, and chocolate morsels in the middle and on top.
And those who are watching their sugar intake also offer a no-sugar-added option. The pies come in a complimentary Texas box, perfect for gifting (or keeping for yourself!). So if you're looking for the best pecan pies in Texas, look no further than Berdoll's.
Website: https://www.berdollpecanfarm.com
Pecan Pie Recipe
Texans know pecan pie is a must-have dessert, and this authentic recipe will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. The key to an excellent pecan pie is the filling - it should be thick and gooey, with just the right amount of sweetness. This recipe hits the mark and includes a flaky crust that will melt in your mouth. So next time you're craving something sweet, indulge in this delicious Texas pecan pie. You won't regret it!
Ingredients
Yield: Serves 8
Pie Crust:
1 ½ cups All Purpose Flour
1 ½ cups Unsalted Butter, cold
â…› cup Lard
½ cup Sugar
¼ cup Very Cold Water, from the fridge
¼ tsp Salt
Filling:
4 Large Eggs
1 cup Corn Syrup
¼ cup Muscovado Sugar
½ cup Sugar
¼ cup Unsalted Butter
1 cup Pecans, Lightly Chopped
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
¼ tsp Cinnamon Powder
1 tsp Salt
Topping:
¾ cup Pecans, more or less
For Brushing (optional):
3 tbsp Apricot Jam
5-6 tbsp Syrup (recipe below)
Syrup:
¼ cup Water
¼ cup Sugar
Instructions
Make Shortbread Pastry
Cut the butter into cubes, and set aside.
In a large bowl, add the flour with the butter, lard, sugar, and salt, and mix with the help of the flat beater until a sandy mixture is obtained. It will be a few seconds; it is crucial not to work the dough too much to avoid developing gluten.
Pour the water and mix again for a few seconds. We will obtain a non-homogeneous paste.
Transfer the dough to a work surface and continue kneading into a smooth dough
Stretch the dough with an adjustable roller and a thickness of 2 mm, between two sheets of Teflon or Silpat. We will give it a bigger diameter than the mold.
If the dough has acquired room temperature, refrigerate it for 15-20 minutes so we can handle it without breaking it.
Place the dough on the mold and fit it without pressing the dough. We adjust it perfectly, but without pressing it with our hands.
Roll the edges with a roller pin. That way, we can remove the excess dough to be perfectly adjusted.
Refrigerate while preparing the filling. If we wish, we can refrigerate the mold with the dough until the next day.
Make the Syrup
Add all the ingredients to a saucepan. Place on medium heat and allow to boil. The sugar should have dissolved completely.
Once it comes to a boil, turn off the heat and let it cool down completely.
Put the syrup in a bottle with the help of a funnel.
Reserve at room temperature.
Make Pecan Pie Filling
Preheat the oven to 345ºF/175ºC.
In a saucepan, add the butter together with the muscovado sugar. Place at medium-low heat and let it melt completely. Stir from time to time to help the two ingredients integrate. Leave it aside to temper while we prepare the rest of the filling.
With the help of a sharp knife, chop 125 g of pecans. Set aside.
Add the eggs, white sugar, salt, and vanilla in a large bowl. Mix well.
Add the corn syrup and the cinnamon and mix again. We must mix very well so that all the ingredients are perfectly integrated.
Begin to add the butter in a continuous thread while whisking. Mix until we get a perfectly homogeneous mixture.
Fill and Bake
Place the chopped pecans at the base of the mold.
Pour the filling over them. With the help of a silicon spatula, help to distribute the chopped nuts well.
Decorate the top with whole pecans. Ideally, they should all be of similar size.
We will place them very carefully and create a pattern to our liking.
With great care, put the mold in the lowest rack of the oven and bake for 55-60 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a shelf.
Brush With the Syrup
In a saucepan, add the apricot jam along with the syrup and mix.
Heat for a few seconds so that it acquires a very liquid consistency.
With the help of a pastry brush, brush all the surfaces.
Refrigerate until the next day, or we can serve it once it has cooled down. The cold helps you to take more firmness.
Aside Pecan Pie, if you are around Dallas-Fort Worth and looking for the best BBQ, check out this list.
