🥧 Ann Peterson’s Pecan Pie 🥧
Pecan pie is a classic Southern dessert that’s rich, sweet, and incredibly delicious. It’s a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions. Ann Peterson’s pecan pie is likely a cherished family recipe, and I’ll provide you with a detailed overview of what it is, its history, its components, the steps to prepare it, and the time needed for preparation.
What is Pecan Pie?
Pecan pie is a dessert that consists of a flaky pastry crust filled with a mixture of pecans, sugar, butter, eggs, and often a touch of vanilla or other flavorings. The filling sets into a sweet, gooey, and nutty center when baked. It’s known for its distinctive, caramel-like flavor and the satisfying crunch of the pecans.
History of Pecan Pie:
The exact origin of pecan pie is a bit murky, but it’s widely associated with Southern cuisine, particularly in the United States. Pecans are native to North America, and the pie likely developed in the 18th century, with recipes appearing in cookbooks in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It gained popularity as a regional specialty in the Southern states.
Components of Pecan Pie:
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Pastry Crust: This can be homemade or store-bought. A traditional pie crust made with flour, butter, and a pinch of salt works well.
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Pecans: The star ingredient! You’ll need whole pecans, and it’s common to use a mix of halves and pieces.
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Filling: The filling consists of sugar (usually a combination of granulated and brown sugar), melted butter, eggs, a dash of salt, and often a flavoring like vanilla extract or bourbon.
Steps to Prepare Ann Peterson’s Pecan Pie:
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
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Prepare the Crust: If you’re making the crust from scratch, roll out the pastry dough and line a pie dish with it. Crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Arrange Pecans: Spread the pecans evenly over the pie crust.
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Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, eggs, a pinch of salt, and your chosen flavoring (e.g., 1 tsp vanilla extract).
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Pour Filling: Pour the filling mixture over the pecans in the pie crust, ensuring an even distribution.
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Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-55 minutes or until the filling is set. You can check for doneness by gently shaking the pie; it should have a slight jiggle in the center.
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Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving. This lets the filling set properly.
Time Needed to Prepare:
- Preparing the crust (if homemade): 15-20 minutes
- Assembling the pie: 10-15 minutes
- Baking time: 45-55 minutes
- Cooling time: 1-2 hours
In total, you can expect to spend around 2 to 2.5 hours making Ann Peterson’s pecan pie from start to finish.
Enjoy your pecan pie! It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, and I hope this response has been helpful in capturing its essence and preparing it with emojis! 🥧😊
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for a typical slice of pecan pie:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values for one slice, about 1/8th of a standard 9-inch pie):
- Calories: 500-550 kcal
- Total Fat: 30-35 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 60-70 mg
- Sodium: 150-170 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55-60 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 40-45 grams
- Protein: 5-6 grams
Health Information:
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High in Calories: Pecan pie is calorie-dense due to its sugar, butter, and nut content. One slice can provide a significant portion of your daily calorie intake.
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High in Saturated Fat: The butter and pecans in pecan pie contribute to its saturated fat content. Consuming too much saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
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Added Sugars: Pecan pie is high in added sugars, which can lead to blood sugar spikes and contribute to weight gain if consumed excessively.
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Protein: While pecan pie contains some protein from the eggs and nuts, it’s not a significant source of this nutrient.
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Fiber: There is a small amount of dietary fiber in pecan pie, primarily from the pecans, but it’s not a significant source of fiber.
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Nutrient Density: Pecan pie is not considered a nutrient-dense food. It provides a lot of calories with limited essential nutrients.
Moderation is Key: Pecan pie is a delicious but indulgent dessert. It’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie, sugar, or saturated fat intake. Consider sharing a slice with others to savor the flavor without overindulging.
Remember that the specific nutrition content of pecan pie can vary depending on the recipe and portion size, so these values are approximate. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized guidance.
