Pecan Pie is the epitome of Southern comfort, a dessert that evokes warmth, tradition, and the joy of home-baked goodness. When I stumbled upon this old recipe card for Kentucky Pecan Pie, I knew I had to give it a try. There’s something special about reviving a vintage recipe, especially one that promises the rich, nutty flavors of pecans with a touch of Kentucky flair. With just seven simple ingredients, this pie is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the best recipes are the ones that keep things straightforward and classic.

This particular recipe card came to me through the Recipe Tin Project, where I’ve been exploring and cooking my way through a collection of vintage recipes. Each card tells a story, and this one, with its charming illustration of a steaming kettle and colorful vegetables, instantly drew me in. The recipe is written in neat, cursive handwriting, making it easy to follow—a rarity with these old cards.

The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity. The recipe doesn’t include a pastry crust, so you’re free to use your favorite homemade version or save time with a store-bought shell (which I opted for). The filling comes together quickly: just mix the white corn syrup, dark brown sugar, a pinch of salt, melted butter, vanilla, and slightly beaten eggs. Pour this rich, sweet mixture into the unbaked pie crust, sprinkle generously with a heaping cup of pecans, and it’s ready for the oven.

As the pie bakes, your kitchen will fill with the irresistible aroma of toasted pecans and caramelized sugar. The card suggests baking for 45 minutes, though I found that a little extra time might help the filling set more firmly, as Pecan Pie tends to be deliciously ooey-gooey.

What sets this Kentucky Pecan Pie apart from others I’ve tried is its balance. Many pecan pies can be overly sweet, but this recipe allows the natural nuttiness of the pecans to shine through, complemented by the rich, buttery filling. It’s a dessert that’s sure to become a family favorite, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving a slice of something sweet and nostalgic.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white corn syrup
• 1 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/3 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 whole eggs, slightly beaten
• 1 heaping cup pecans
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Preparation:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when your pie is ready to bake.

2. Prepare the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the white corn syrup, dark brown sugar, salt, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Add the slightly beaten eggs to the mixture, stirring again until everything is fully incorporated.

3. Assemble the Pie:

Pour the prepared filling into an unbaked 9-inch pie shell, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the pecans over the top of the filling. You can arrange them in a decorative pattern or simply scatter them across the surface.

4. Bake the Pie:

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on the pie during the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t overbrown.

5. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before serving. For an extra touch of indulgence, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream.

Bonus Tip:

For an added layer of flavor, try toasting the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the pie. This simple step enhances the nutty flavor and adds a bit of extra crunch to your finished pie.

Conclusion:

Kentucky Pecan Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of culinary history, filled with the flavors of tradition and nostalgia. The combination of sweet, buttery filling and crunchy pecans creates a perfectly balanced pie that’s not overly sweet, allowing the natural richness of the pecans to take center stage. Whether you’re a longtime lover of pecan pie or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Serve it at your next gathering, and watch as it quickly disappears—proof that the best recipes truly stand the test of time.