My Best Favorite Pecan Cream Pie!

 

The Ultimate Creamy, Crunchy, No-Bake Dessert That Everyone Will Love!

Looking for a dessert that’s rich, creamy, sweet, and packed with nutty flavor? This Pecan Cream Pie is hands down one of the easiest yet most indulgent pies you’ll ever make. No oven time required (besides pre-baking the crust), and it delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a cozy family gathering, or just craving a luscious slice of pie, this recipe will become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 (9-inch) pre-baked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Tip: You can also use a graham cracker crust for a different texture and flavor twist!

For the Filling:

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (cold)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted

For the Topping:

• 1 cup whipped cream (or the remaining heavy cream, whipped)
• 1/2 cup whole pecans, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream

In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with the granulated sugar until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes using an electric mixer on high speed.

Pro Tip: Chill your bowl and beaters in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before whipping. It makes the cream whip faster and fluffier.

Step 3: Combine

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and fold carefully to maintain the light texture. Don’t overmix.

Step 4: Add the Pecans

Stir in the toasted chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the creamy filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Spoon the creamy pecan filling into the pre-baked pie crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 6: Decorate

Top the pie with extra whipped cream and garnish with whole pecans arranged in a circular pattern or any way you like.

Step 7: Chill

Cover the pie lightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the filling to set perfectly.

Time & Nutrition

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories per slice: Approx. 460 kcal

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Toast the Pecans: Place them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 7–8 minutes. It enhances their rich, nutty flavor.
• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: It gives the filling a better structure and a more indulgent taste.
• Want a Shortcut? Use ready-made whipped topping like Cool Whip, but real whipped cream has better flavor.
• Make it Ahead: This pie holds up beautifully in the fridge for 2–3 days, making it perfect for prepping in advance.

Perfect For:

• Thanksgiving & Christmas
• Birthdays and potlucks
• Dessert tables
• Weekend treat with coffee or tea