Christmas Pecan Pie with Whipped Cream Topping

Introduction

There are few desserts as timeless and indulgent as Christmas Pecan Pie with Whipped Cream Topping. A flaky, buttery crust filled with a rich, caramel-like pecan filling, baked until golden and nutty, and then topped with a cool, fluffy crown of whipped cream—this pie is the epitome of holiday indulgence. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas dessert table, combining warmth, comfort, and a touch of festive elegance.

It’s a festive showstopper that not only looks beautiful on your Christmas dessert table but also delivers a flavor that feels like pure holiday joy. Each bite offers the crunch of roasted pecans, the sweetness of golden syrup, and the creamy balance of whipped topping, making it a dessert that everyone—from kids to grandparents—will eagerly savor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The filling is luxuriously sweet and gooey, the pecans add crunch and nuttiness, the crust brings buttery flakiness, and the whipped cream adds a light, creamy contrast. Every bite feels festive and comforting, like wrapping yourself in a cozy Christmas blanket.

This pie also brings people together—it’s one of those desserts that guests always look forward to during the holidays. The aroma of pecans and caramelized sugar baking in the oven fills the house with pure Christmas magic.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• It’s a holiday classic that never fails to impress.
• Simple ingredients come together to create a show-stopping dessert.
• The balance of sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors makes it universally loved.
• Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any cozy winter gathering.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50–55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories: ~500–550 kcal per slice (with whipped cream)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American (Southern classic, popular at holidays)
• Course: Dessert

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust (or use 1 store-bought crust):

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• 3–4 tablespoons ice water

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups pecan halves

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the crust, roll it out, and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
2. Mix the filling ingredients, stir in pecans, and pour into crust.
3. Bake until set and golden brown.
4. Whip cream and sugar until soft peaks form.
5. Serve each slice of pecan pie with a dollop of whipped cream.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a bowl, whisk flour and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter until mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water 1 tablespoon at a time until dough forms.
4. Shape into a disk, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface and fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp edges.

(Shortcut: Use a store-bought pie crust to save time.)

Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk corn syrup, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla.
2. Beat in eggs until smooth.
3. Stir in pecan halves.
4. Pour mixture into prepared crust.

Step 3: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place pie on middle rack and bake for 50–55 minutes until center is set but slightly jiggly.
3. Remove and cool completely before slicing (filling firms up as it cools).

Step 4: Make Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a chilled bowl, whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
2. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve

• Slice the pie into wedges and top with whipped cream just before serving.

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream on top.
• Pairs beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or mulled wine.
• For extra indulgence, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Lightly toast the pecans before adding them for a deeper nutty flavor.
• If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.
• Let the pie cool fully before cutting for neat slices.

Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Pie: Add ½ cup melted dark chocolate to the filling.
• Maple Pecan Pie: Substitute maple syrup for corn syrup.
• Bourbon Pecan Pie: Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon for a festive kick.
• Mini Pecan Pies: Use a muffin tin for individual servings.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Whipped Cream: Best made fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for 24 hours.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie dish
• Rolling pin (if making crust)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (for whipped cream)

Conclusion

Christmas Pecan Pie with Whipped Cream Topping is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of holiday tradition. With its nutty crunch, caramelized sweetness, and fluffy cream topping, it’s a dessert that everyone looks forward to on the Christmas table. Whether you’re baking it for your family or sharing it at a festive gathering, this pie will bring smiles, warmth, and the magic of Christmas with every bite