Deep Fried Pecan Pies

Deep fried pecan pies are a crispy, golden-brown twist on the classic pecan pie, a beloved dessert in Southern cuisine. Unlike traditional pecan pie, which is baked in a pie dish, these hand-held treats are made by wrapping a rich pecan filling in a flaky crust and frying it to perfection. The result is a warm, crunchy, and caramelized pie that melts in your mouth.

Originating in the Southern United States, deep fried pecan pies have become a favorite at state fairs, food festivals, and home kitchens. The crispy exterior paired with the gooey, nutty filling creates an irresistible combination that has captured the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere.

For a deeper dive into the history and variations of pecan pie, check out The American Pecan Council. Want to explore more deep-fried Southern favorites? Visit Southern Living for inspiration.

The History Behind Deep Fried Pecan Pies

Origins of Pecan Pie

• The first recorded recipes for pecan pie date back to the late 1800s.
• The dessert is closely associated with Texas and the pecan groves of the Southern U.S.
• Pecans were a staple ingredient among Native American tribes before becoming a Southern favorite.

The Birth of Deep Fried Desserts

• Deep-frying has been a popular cooking method in Southern cuisine for centuries.
• Many state fairs introduced deep fried pecan pies as a handheld, portable treat.
• The popularity of deep frying desserts expanded to include Oreos, Twinkies, and even cheesecake.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Essential Ingredients

• For the Pecan Filling:
  • Pecans, chopped
  • Brown sugar
  • Corn syrup
  • Butter
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Salt
• For the Crust and Frying:
  • Refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying
  • Powdered sugar for garnish

Required Kitchen Tools

• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Rolling pin
• Thermometer (for monitoring oil temperature)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Biscuit cutter or round template

Step-By-Step Recipe: How to Make Deep Fried Pecan Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
2. Heat over medium, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture starts to bubble.
3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly before using.

Step 2: Assemble the Hand Pies

1. Roll out pie crusts and cut into circles using a biscuit cutter.
2. Spoon pecan filling into the center of each dough circle.
3. Fold over, press edges with a fork, and seal with a bit of water.

Step 3: Frying the Pies

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry pies in small batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Drain on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Baking Instructions

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange assembled pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-17 minutes until golden brown.

Air Fryer Method

• Preheat air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
• Place pies in a single layer in the basket.
• Air fry for 6-8 minutes until crispy and golden.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

Classic Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce.

Creative Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the pecan filling.
• Bourbon Pecan Pies: Splash in bourbon or rum for an adult-friendly version.
• Nutty Variations: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.

Nutritional Information

Calories & Macronutrients

• Calories: ~400 per pie
• Fat: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~45g
• Protein: ~5g

Healthier Alternatives

• Use whole wheat crust for added fiber.
• Bake instead of deep-frying to reduce oil content.
• Substitute honey for corn syrup for a natural sweetener.

FAQs: Answering Your Top Questions

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes! Refrigerated pie crusts work perfectly and save time.

What’s the best oil for deep-frying?

Use vegetable oil or peanut oil for a crispier texture and neutral flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pies and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying.

How do I store leftover pies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Expert Tips for the Best Deep Fried Pecan Pies

• Keep your oil at a steady temperature to avoid soggy pies.
• Avoid overfilling to prevent leaking while frying.
• Let the pecan filling cool before assembling to prevent a soggy crust.

Deep Fried Pecan Pies

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

This Grilled Shrimp Bowl combines smoky grilled shrimp, a zesty avocado corn salsa, and a creamy, tangy sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner!

See also  Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1 cup grilled corn kernels
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 15-30 minutes.
2. Grill shrimp over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque and slightly charred.
3. In a separate bowl, combine grilled corn, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, olive oil, and cilantro to make the salsa.
4. For the sauce, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, honey, cayenne pepper, and cilantro until smooth.
5. Assemble the bowl by choosing a base (grains, greens, or low-carb option), adding grilled shrimp, topping with avocado corn salsa, and drizzling with creamy sauce.

Notes

Customize with toppings like sliced jalapeños, crumbled feta, toasted pumpkin seeds, or fresh lime wedges. Store components separately for meal prep!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: grilled shrimp, healthy bowl, avocado salsa, shrimp meal prep