Are you looking for a delicious and irresistible dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further! Pecans are a classic Southern staple that can add depth, texture, and flavor to any dessert. From classic pies to creative twists on traditional treats, we’ve got 18 scrumptious pecan dessert recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a fan of rich and gooey caramel, crunchy cookies, or decadent cheesecake, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So go ahead, get your pecan on, and indulge in these mouthwatering treats!
Classic Pecan Pie
A traditional Southern dessert, pecan pie is a staple of holiday gatherings and special occasions. This classic recipe yields a rich, gooey, and nutty pie that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, corn syrup, and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Stir in pecan halves until well coated with the mixture.
5. Pour filling into a 9-inch pie dish lined with pastry or a pre-made crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pecan Praline Cheesecake
A classic Southern dessert gets a creamy twist with this Pecan Praline Cheesecake, featuring a buttery pecan praline crust and a rich, velvety cheesecake filling.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups pecans
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
For the cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix together pecans, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Prepare the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust and bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
5. Let cool completely on a wire rack before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Maple Pecan Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of maple syrup with the crunch of pecans, perfect for a cozy treat any time of year. With just 10 ingredients, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in maple syrup and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in flour mixture, then fold in pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Caramel Brownies
These brownies combine the classic flavors of chocolate and caramel with the crunch of pecans, creating a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups of sugar
– 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of pecan halves
– 1 cup of caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the flour mixture, then fold in pecan halves.
5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle with caramel sauce. Top with remaining batter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pecan Butter Tarts
These bite-sized tarts are a perfect combination of buttery pastry, gooey pecan filling, and a hint of maple syrup. A classic Canadian treat that’s easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup of pecans
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, approximately 3 inches per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pecans, butter, and maple syrup until well combined.
4. Place a spoonful of the pecan mixture onto one half of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or shape of your choice. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze. Sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Pecan Fudge
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with this decadent treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the crunch of pecans. This easy-to-make fudge recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter
– 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 16 ounces (450g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup (100g) chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and pecans.
6. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
7. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Pecan Streusel Coffee Cake
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that combines the warmth of coffee cake with the richness of pecans. This Pecan Streusel Coffee Cake is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Streusel topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Fold in chopped pecans. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
4. Top with streusel topping (see below).
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Streusel Topping:
1. Mix flour, sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Add chopped pecans; mix until crumbly.
3. Sprinkle over coffee cake batter before baking.
Pecan Pie Bars
These Pecan Pie Bars are a unique take on the traditional pecan pie, with a gooey caramel-like filling and a crunchy pecan topping. Perfect for parties or potlucks, these bars are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour over crust.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over filling.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan Cinnamon Rolls
These Pecan Cinnamon Rolls combine the warmth of cinnamon with the richness of pecans, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, these sweet treats are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and pecan halves.
5. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12 equal pieces.
6. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pecan Toffee Bark
A sweet and crunchy treat that combines the richness of toffee with the nutty flavor of pecans, perfect for a quick snack or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon white chocolate chips
– Optional: crushed pecans or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine butter, corn syrup, sugar, and sea salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 275°F on a candy thermometer (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the toffee mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
5. Melt milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Spread over the toffee layer.
6. Melt white chocolate chips in a separate bowl and drizzle over the milk chocolate layer.
7. Let set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking the toffee mixture)
Pecan Banana Bread
Moist banana bread infused with the rich flavor of pecans – a perfect combination!
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, pecans, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pecan Pumpkin Pie
Combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the rich flavor of pecans for a unique and delicious dessert. This Pecan Pumpkin Pie recipe is perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted and chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the pecan-pumpkin mixture.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pecan Apple Crisp
Combine the warmth of apples with the crunch of pecans and a hint of cinnamon, and you’ll have a perfect dessert for any occasion. This Pecan Apple Crisp recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, and cold butter. Mix until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with pecan mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the crunch of toasted pecans, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by chocolate chips and pecans.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pecan Honey Baklava
This classic Middle Eastern pastry gets a delicious boost from the addition of pecans and honey, creating a rich and indulgent treat perfect for special occasions or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together chopped pecans, honey, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and vanilla extract.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the pecan mixture, creating a stack of about 8-10 layers.
5. Brush the top layer with melted butter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pecan Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the rich flavor of pecans and the subtle sweetness of coconut, making them a unique and irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and vanilla extract until frothy.
5. Gradually add the coconut mixture to the egg whites, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pecan Bread Pudding
This rich and indulgent bread pudding is infused with the warm, buttery flavor of pecans, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until bread is well saturated.
6. Fold in chopped pecans.
7. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pecan Spiced Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes combine the warmth of spices with the richness of pecans, perfect for a cozy treat or special occasion. With a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, these pecan spiced cupcakes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in pecan halves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of nutty goodness with these 18 delicious pecan dessert recipes! From classic Pecan Pie to creative twists like Pecan Praline Cheesecake and Maple Pecan Cookies, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Discover new flavors and textures in treats like Pecan Caramel Brownies, Chocolate Pecan Fudge, and Pecan Streusel Coffee Cake. Whether you’re a fan of traditional desserts or looking to spice things up with unique combinations, these pecan dessert recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
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