A Perfect Dessert for Every Occasion
When it comes to classic American desserts, few treats can compete with the rich, buttery, and nutty perfection of a Pecan Slab Pie. This indulgent dessert combines a flaky, golden crust with a luscious, sweet pecan filling that’s baked to perfection. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, a holiday gathering, or just craving something sweet and satisfying, this Pecan Slab Pie delivers flavor, texture, and presentation in every single bite.
What Makes Pecan Slab Pie Special
Unlike a traditional pecan pie baked in a round dish, a slab pie is baked in a large jelly roll pan or rimmed baking sheet, making it perfect for serving a crowd. The thin, crisp crust supports a generous layer of gooey pecan filling, ensuring every square has the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. It’s easier to slice, serve, and store—ideal for potlucks, parties, and family feasts.
Ingredients for the Perfect Pecan Slab Pie
To create the best homemade Pecan Slab Pie, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together for a decadent treat.
For the Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups light corn syrup
- 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 cups pecan halves
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving
Step-by-Step Directions for the Best Pecan Slab Pie
1. Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan or rimmed baking sheet. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, just until the dough begins to come together. Do not overmix; the goal is a tender, flaky crust. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
After chilling, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface large enough to fit your prepared pan, leaving a slight overhang on the edges. Transfer it gently into the pan, pressing into the corners. Trim any excess dough for a neat finish.
2. Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together light corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and melted butter until smooth and glossy. Stir in the pecan halves, ensuring they’re evenly coated with the rich, sugary mixture.
Pour the filling evenly over the prepared crust, spreading it out with a spatula so the pecans are distributed across the surface.
3. Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and golden brown. The pie should have a shiny, caramelized top and a fragrant nutty aroma. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the filling too firm instead of gooey.
Once done, allow the Pecan Slab Pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Cooling ensures the filling sets properly for clean, beautiful squares.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Cut into 16 even squares and serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added decadence. Each square offers a perfect bite of buttery crust, sweet pecan filling, and crunchy nuts—a true Southern-inspired delight.
Baking Tips for the Ultimate Pecan Slab Pie
- Use cold butter: This ensures your crust stays flaky and tender. Warm butter can make the dough greasy or tough.
- Chill the dough: Refrigerating before rolling helps prevent shrinking during baking.
- Check for doneness: The filling should be slightly firm but not jiggly in the center when done.
- Cool completely: Cutting too early can cause the filling to spill out or collapse.
- Make ahead: This pie can be baked a day ahead and stored covered at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Slab Pie
This recipe is everything a pecan pie lover could dream of, but with a practical twist. The slab style means more servings, even baking, and easier slicing. It’s ideal for serving at large gatherings and guarantees that everyone gets their share of the irresistible sweet, buttery pecan goodness.
The combination of textures—crispy crust, gooey filling, and crunchy nuts—makes it impossible to resist. Plus, its presentation is stunning enough for any festive table, yet simple enough for casual family meals.
Variations to Try
If you want to add your own touch, try these delicious twists:
- Chocolate Pecan Slab Pie: Add ½ cup melted dark chocolate to the filling mixture before baking for a rich, chocolaty depth.
- Maple Pecan Pie: Replace the corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a natural, warm flavor.
- Bourbon Pecan Slab Pie: Add a splash (1–2 tablespoons) of bourbon to the filling for a sophisticated kick.
- Salted Caramel Pecan Slab Pie: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce after baking for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
- Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerated: Keeps fresh for 5 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap tightly in plastic and foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
When ready to enjoy, serve slices slightly warm or at room temperature. The flavors deepen and become more pronounced after resting, making it even more delicious the next day.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 140mg
- Sugars: 35g
This dessert is indulgent, rich, and satisfying—a perfect occasional treat that balances sweetness with the natural earthiness of pecans.
The Perfect Dessert for Every Celebration
Our Pecan Slab Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort, nostalgia, and joy to every table. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weekend gathering, this pie’s simplicity and elegance make it a standout dish.
The crisp, buttery crust and gooey pecan filling deliver the taste of homemade warmth that guests will remember long after the last bite.