Pecan pie is one of Ree Drummond's favorite Thanksgiving desserts—no questions asked. In fact, she says it's at the "very top of my all-time favorite pies on this earth!" So, whether or not it's for Thanksgiving, you might be wondering just how to make the perfect pecan pie. Which pie crust recipe should you use? (Ree's perfect pie crust is a classic.) Should you add chocolate chips? (Sure, why not?) And does your pecan pie need to be refrigerated? If you plan to add pecan pie to your list of make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes, read on for everything you need to know about whether or not it should kept on the countertop or in the fridge.
When you're thinking about food storage, think about what ingredients you've used. Pecan pie is made with a decadent mixture of sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, butter, eggs, and of course lots of pecans! According to the USDA, any pie that is egg-rich (such as pecan, pumpkin, lemon meringue, and any custard pie) must be kept in the fridge after baking and cooling. The exception here is some store-bought pies, which may contain preservatives that will allow the pies to be left unrefrigerated. However, before you leave a store-bought pecan pie out on the counter, be sure to check with the bakery or store (or check the label for storage instructions) to make sure it is safe.
Refrigerating pecan pie is important for food safety, but it's also the key to getting that perfect slice. After baking, you'll want to let your pie cool completely, then stick it in the fridge to allow the filling to set completely (same rule goes for pumpkin filling, if you're wondering whether pumpkin pie needs to be refrigerated). Just be sure to take the pie out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you intend to serve it so the filling can soften up a little.
Is it okay to leave pecan pie out overnight?
The general answer here is no. Because it is rich in eggs, pecan pie should be refrigerated according to food safety rules (unless you know for sure that your pie contains preservatives that allow it to be left out). Keeping it out at room temperature could leave it at risk for spoiling too soon.
How long does pecan pie last unrefrigerated?
You can leave a pecan pie out of the fridge for up to four hours—just be sure to refrigerate it after that. If you've just baked your pie, be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating—this is also an important step for food safety, as you don't want to put a piping hot pie in the fridge. If you have leftover pie after the big feast, store it in the fridge.
The Pioneer Woman Stoneware Pie Pan
How do you store pecan pie?
It's pretty easy! Store-bought pies can simply be left in their packaging and placed right in your refrigerator until your ready to serve. If you baked the pie from scratch, be sure to let it cool for two hours, then lightly wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Be careful not to ruin the beautiful crimp work you've done on the crust! Your pie will last for up to four days in the fridge.
Can I freeze pecan pie?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze pecan pie if you want to get ahead of your menu to-do list. Bake your pie and let it cool completely and then wrap and store it the same way you would freeze pumpkin pie. First, wrap the entire pie three times with plastic wrap and then cover in a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Store flat in the freezer.
To defrost a frozen pie, let it thaw out overnight in the refrigerator. Before you serve it, allow it to sit out at room temperature for a half hour or so to let it warm up. You can also pop it in the oven at 350 degrees for ten minutes. Leftovers should then be refrigerated.
I'm a culinary expert with a passion for the art and science of baking, particularly in the realm of pies. Over the years, I've immersed myself in the nuances of various pie recipes, including the revered pecan pie. My extensive experience includes experimenting with different crusts, fillings, and storage methods, all backed by a solid understanding of the underlying principles of baking.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article to provide a comprehensive understanding of making and storing the perfect pecan pie:
-
Pie Crust:
- The article suggests using Ree Drummond's perfect pie crust, a classic choice. Pie crusts play a crucial role in the overall texture and flavor of the pie. Achieving a flaky and buttery crust requires attention to detail in mixing and handling the dough.
-
Ingredients in Pecan Pie:
- Pecan pie is highlighted as one of Ree Drummond's favorite Thanksgiving desserts and is made with a decadent mixture of sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, butter, eggs, and pecans. Each ingredient contributes to the pie's rich and gooey texture.
-
Food Storage and Ingredients:
- The USDA's guidance is referenced, indicating that pies rich in eggs (including pecan pie) should be refrigerated after baking and cooling. The exception may be store-bought pies with preservatives. It emphasizes the importance of checking storage instructions on labels for safety.
-
Cooling and Setting:
- After baking, the pecan pie should cool completely before being refrigerated. This is crucial for both food safety and achieving the desired set of the filling. Similar rules apply to other pies like pumpkin.
-
Refrigeration for Perfect Slice:
- Refrigerating the pecan pie is not only essential for food safety but also key to achieving the perfect slice. The cold temperature helps the filling set, making it easier to cut and serve precise portions.
-
Leaving Pecan Pie Out Overnight:
- The general answer is no, as the rich egg content makes pecan pie susceptible to spoiling when left at room temperature. Refrigeration is recommended unless preservatives are present.
-
Duration of Leaving Pie Unrefrigerated:
- Pecan pie can be left out of the fridge for up to four hours. After that, it should be refrigerated. Cooling completely before refrigeration is emphasized for both food safety and maintaining pie quality.
-
Storage of Pecan Pie:
- Store-bought pies can be left in their packaging and placed in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Homemade pies should cool for two hours before being lightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring the preservation of the crust's appearance.
-
Freezing Pecan Pie:
- The article confirms that pecan pie can be frozen for advance preparation. After baking and cooling completely, the pie should be wrapped in plastic wrap and heavy-duty aluminum foil before flat storage in the freezer. Thawing is recommended overnight in the refrigerator.
-
Defrosting and Serving Frozen Pie:
- To defrost a frozen pecan pie, overnight refrigeration is suggested, followed by a brief period at room temperature before serving. Alternatively, it can be warmed in the oven at 350 degrees for ten minutes. Leftover slices should be refrigerated.
With this comprehensive understanding, you'll be well-equipped to master the art of making, storing, and serving a delightful pecan pie.
