There may not be a more controversial nut out there than the pecan, and it has absolutely nothing to do with the nut itself. The controversy isn’t about how it tastes, or looks, or even how it’s harvested. No, people all over the country are constantly quarreling about the pronunciation of this delicious nut. Whether you call them PEE-cans, PEE-kahns, pee-CANs, pee-KAHNs, or, pick-AHNs, there’s undoubtedly someone out there that’s been pushed to punches by your pronunciation. Hopefully, you’re out of arm’s reach.
No matter which way is the “right” way to say pecan, there’s no argument about pecan pies — final verdict: delicious. So what better way to end the week than with a pecan pie?! Lucky for us all, National Pecan Pie Day falls on a Friday (July 11), so we can ring in the weekend the right way.
To help you celebrate, we’ve pulled out four of our favorite pecan pie recipes. The choice is yours, as long as it’s pecan…
1. Texas State Fair Pecan Pie
This recipe, courtesy of Food & Wine, was good enough to take home the blue ribbon at the 1996 Texas State Fair.
Considering many people call Texas the birthplace of the pecan pie, that’s quite the accomplishment. 1996 was a couple of decades ago but if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. If you’re looking for a simple but classic pecan pie, look no further.
2. Dark Rum Pecan Pie
Most things are better with a little bit of booze, and pecan pie is no exception.
This recipe comes from Carrie Morey, the owner of a Charleston-based biscuit shop, who took a family classic and turned it a little tipsy. Boy, are we glad she did.
3. Toasted Coconut Turtle Cream Cheese Pie
If you’ve ever looked at a pecan pie after one bite and thought, “Tastes good, but a little boring…” then this pie is for you.
The chefs over at NeighborFood really outdid themselves here. This one of the richest, most decadent “pecan pies” that you’ll ever come across. It’s really more of a cheesecake. But who cares?! It’s delicious.
4. No Bake Chocolate Pecan Pie Recipe
Sometimes you want a pie, but you don’t want to turn on that oven. We get it. Especially in this summer heat, let’s stay away from the fire whenever possible.
This simple no-bake pecan pie will keep things cool and chocolatey. Oh, did we forget to mention the three chocolate layers running through this one?
5. Sweet Potato Pecan Pie
We are firm believers in making sure everyone enjoys National Pecan Pie Day, and by everyone, we mean everyone. Even vegans!
Keeping dietary restrictions in mind, this pie from Making Thyme for Health is simple and easy. Plus, it doesn’t sacrifice any flavor throughout all the ingredient substitutions.
Bonus: Pecan Pie Shortbread Cookies
Evidently, there are some people out there that don’t absolutely love pie. Odd, but understandable.
If pies aren’t your desired dessert, you can still partake in pecan pie day with these nutty shortbread cookies. Per usual, Country Living delivers with these simple but sweet treats.
