Deep Fried Pecan Pies with Crispy Golden Crust

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep-fried pecan pies offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich, gooey filling contrasts beautifully with the crispy, golden crust, creating an unforgettable bite. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers. Plus, the recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require any fancy equipment, just a frying pan and a few basic ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 1 package of pie crusts (2 crusts)
  • 1 cup of pecan halves
  • 1/2 cup of corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup of brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of melted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

  2. Add Pecans: Gently fold in the pecan halves into the mixture.

  3. Prepare the Pie Crusts: Roll out the pie crusts on a flat surface. Use a round cutter to cut out small circles, around 4-5 inches in diameter.

  4. Assemble the Pies: Spoon a generous amount of the pecan filling onto the center of each pie crust circle. Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal.

  5. Heat Oil: In a large frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat, enough to submerge the pies. Test the temperature by dropping a small piece of dough in; it should sizzle immediately.

  6. Fry the Pies: Carefully lower the pies into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each pie for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

  7. Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the pies from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe makes around 6-8 deep-fried pecan pies.
  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 15-20 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Pecan Pies: Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist on the classic recipe.
  • Maple Pecan Pies: Replace the corn syrup with maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor.
  • Bourbon Pecan Pies: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: These pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
  • Reheating: Reheat the pies in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 3-5 minutes to retain their crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pie crusts for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought pie crusts saves time and still yields delicious results. Just make sure to roll them out before cutting into circles.

2. Can I bake these pecan pies instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, but the texture won’t be as crispy as frying.

3. Can I freeze these deep-fried pecan pies?

Yes, you can freeze them before frying. Wrap each pie in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and fry as usual.

4. How do I prevent the pies from opening while frying?

Make sure to seal the edges of the pie crust tightly by pinching them together or using a fork to crimp the edges.

5. Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can use walnuts or almonds as a substitute for pecans in the filling.

6. Can I make the pecan filling ahead of time?

Yes, the pecan filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

7. Can I make the pies smaller or larger?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the pies depending on your preference. Just be mindful of the cooking time if making them larger or smaller.

8. How can I make these pies less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a sugar alternative, like Stevia or monk fruit.

9. What type of oil should I use for frying?

Vegetable oil or canola oil works best for frying, as both have high smoke points and neutral flavors.

10. How can I serve these pies?

These deep-fried pecan pies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Deep-fried pecan pies are a fantastic, crunchy take on a classic dessert, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet tooth. With a golden, crispy exterior and a sweet, nutty filling, they make a perfect treat for any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to customize and can be stored for later enjoyment. Whether you bake, fry, or experiment with flavors, these pies are sure to become a favorite.

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Deep Fried Pecan Pies with Crispy Golden Crust

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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 pies
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

Deep-fried pecan pies offer a mouthwatering twist on the classic dessert, featuring a crispy golden crust paired with a rich, gooey pecan filling. These indulgent treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to family get-togethers. Customize them with chocolate, maple syrup, or bourbon for an added flavor boost. With a delightful crunch and sweet, nutty interior, these pecan pies are sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 package of pie crusts (2 crusts)
  • 1 cup of pecan halves
  • 1/2 cup of corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup of brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of melted butter
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pecan Filling: In a bowl, combine the pecans, corn syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
  • Roll and Cut the Pie Crust: Roll out the pie crusts on a floured surface and cut into circles large enough to hold a tablespoon of filling.
  • Fill and Seal the Pies: Spoon the pecan filling onto one side of each dough circle. Fold the crust over and seal with a fork, pressing the edges together tightly.
  • Heat the Oil and Fry: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry each pie for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  • Drain and Cool: Remove pies from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Variations: Try adding chocolate chips for a chocolate pecan pie, or replace the corn syrup with maple syrup for a deeper flavor. You can also add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for a spiced twist or stir in a tablespoon of bourbon for an adult variation.
  • Storage: Store leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Frying Tips: Ensure the oil temperature reaches 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer for the perfect fry.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Deep frying
  • Cuisine: Southern

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