Salted Caramel Pecan Pie: A Bold Twist on a Southern Classic
Pecan pie has long been a staple of Southern dessert tables, cherished for its rich, nutty filling and golden, buttery crust. This Salted Caramel Pecan Pie takes that tradition and gives it a sophisticated twist—layering toasted pecans with homemade salted caramel, adding a luxurious depth of flavor that balances sweetness with just the right hint of salt.
The result is familiar, yet elevated: buttery, crunchy, and decadently gooey with every bite. Perfect for holidays, special dinners, or impressing guests with something nostalgic yet unexpected.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pecan Pie
For the crust:
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1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp sugar
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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3–4 tbsp ice water
Or use one pre-made 9-inch pie crust.
For the salted caramel:
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1 cup granulated sugar
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6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces
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½ cup heavy cream
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½ to 1 tsp sea salt (adjust to taste)
For the filling:
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3 large eggs
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½ cup light brown sugar, packed
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp flour
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1 ½ cups pecan halves (lightly toasted)
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All of the salted caramel (above)
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
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In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add ice water 1 tbsp at a time, mixing just until the dough holds together.
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Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
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Roll out and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp edges. Chill while preparing the filling.
2. Make the salted caramel
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In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns deep amber (be patient—don’t walk away).
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Add butter and stir until melted and combined.
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Slowly pour in cream (it will bubble), stirring until smooth.
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Remove from heat and stir in salt. Let cool for 10–15 minutes.
3. Make the filling
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, and flour until smooth.
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Stir in the slightly cooled caramel.
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Fold in pecans.
4. Assemble and bake
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Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
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Bake for 45–50 minutes, until the center is just set and the top is golden.
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Cool completely before slicing to allow the caramel to firm.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream
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Sprinkle with extra sea salt before serving, if desired
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Salted Caramel Pecan Pie keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days; best served at room temperature
- Slice with your Stay Fresh Pie Cutter and keep your individual slices neater and fresher longer