Pecan Pie

Pecan pie has become one of America's most popular pie flavors along with apple, pumpkin, key lime, and cherry. As a matter of fact, pecan pie rates as number four according to BNET's survey for "Top Ten Pie Flavors in American Restaurants."

Pecan pie's history has long been traced back to the French settlement in New Orleans. It is mainly a Southern dish and is served often during the major holidays such as Christmas and Thanksgiving. Its ingredients primarily consist of corn syrup and pecan nuts, along with salt, vanilla, and other flavorings. It is often served with whipped cream. It is made using the outside pie shell. The filling of the pie, when prepared correctly, has a custard-like texture.

The kinds of pecan nuts that are used are usually light colored and halved before baking. Light brown sugar is also used to sweetened up the tart taste of the nuts. They are then usually baked at around 400 degrees for fifteen minutes then baked at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. This ensures the lock-in of flavor and readiness of the filling. The center of the pie should be browned but not too firm.

While the original pecan pie recipe itself still dominates, many chefs and home-cookers have taken their own specifications into consideration and put their own blends together. Some add whiskey or include chocolate. No matter the circumstances, pecan pie is always a well loved recipe.