Buzz
Figuring out if your pecan pie is done can be tricky, especially with that delightful nut topping—arguably the best part of the pie. Unlike other popular pies, such as apple or cherry, where you can see it's ready when the thick fruity juices bubble through the crust, pecan and pumpkin pies demand a bit more detective work.
To ensure your pecan pie is perfectly baked without overcooking, we’re offering some valuable tips and expert tricks to help you determine the right time to take it out of the oven. Plus, we’ll share guidance on how to cool and store it, as well as a creative way to reheat slices when it’s time to serve.
How to Tell if Pecan Pie Is Done
"I typically go by the feel of the pie and how the center slightly resists when pressed," shares Caroline Kolle, a skilled pastry chef who’s baked countless pecan pies. She seeks to find the perfect balance between a filling that’s too watery and one that’s too firm. However, if you don’t have the experience of baking thousands of pies, try these other methods to determine doneness.
Look for a Jiggle, Not a Wobble
Determining if your pecan pie is perfectly baked requires you to differentiate between a subtle jiggle and an obvious wobble. To test your pie, carefully hold it by one edge and give it a gentle shake. If the filling moves in a smooth, wave-like motion from the center outward, your pie needs a little more time.
Wait for the moment when the center of the pie slightly jiggles, similar to the soft yet stable movement of Jell-O when shaken. You’ll want the outer edges of the filling to remain firm and set.
Observe the Puffiness and Color
Another sign that your pecan pie is ready is a slight puffiness around the edges near the crust. By this stage, the combination of nuts and custard should have transformed into a rich medium-brown color, while the crust turns into a beautiful, deep golden shade.
Look for a Cracked Filling
"If you see cracks on top, that’s a clear sign that your pie is ready to come out," says Kolle. "However, a cracked top could also indicate the pie cooled too quickly, so be sure to give it enough time to rest before placing it in the refrigerator."
Check the Temperature
An instant-read thermometer provides the most accurate way to determine if your pecan pie is done. Aim for an internal temperature of 200°F. This higher temperature is necessary because of the pie's sugar content, in contrast to pumpkin pie, which typically reaches 175°F. The USDA recommends cooking anything with eggs to at least 160°F, with a 15-degree safety margin.
Watch for Signs of Overbaking
Take care not to overbake your pecan pie. Watch out for these clear signs that indicate your pie may have been in the oven too long, whether it’s slightly overdone or quite a bit.
- Dry or tough surface, as opposed to a glossy finish with a slightly tacky top
- Dark brown or blackened spots that may indicate burning
- A solid, unmoving center that doesn’t jiggle when gently shaken
- Shrunken filling that leaves a gap where it meets the crust
- Surface bubbles appearing on the filling
If you catch these signs early, there’s still a chance to save your pecan pie. Add some moisture with maple syrup or honey. You can also hide imperfections by topping the pie with whipped cream, custard, or ice cream, all of which help restore moisture. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel can also elevate its look and taste.
"If a pie is too overbaked to serve, I'll find a way to repurpose it," says Kolle. "One option we try is scooping out the filling to use in ice cream." You can crumble the filling and crust and scatter it over vanilla ice cream or waffles. Or mix the crumble with whipped cream and pudding to make a delicious pecan pie parfait.
How to Cool a Pecan Pie After Baking
When your pecan pie looks nearly finished, take it out of the oven while it still has a slight jiggle, and set it on a wire rack to cool. The filling will continue to firm up as it cools, so it’s essential to let the pie rest at room temperature before serving. 'We generally allow our pecan pies to cool for about an hour, until the filling is cool enough to touch,' says Kolle.
How Long Pecan Pie Lasts
Commercial pecan pies can be left out on the counter for several days, but homemade pecan pies are more fragile. While store-bought versions may include stabilizers and preservatives, the homemade filling typically contains eggs, making it more prone to spoiling.
The USDA advises that pecan pie can be stored at room temperature safely for up to 2 hours. Once that time has passed, cover your cooled pie with aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or an alternative wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To avoid bacteria growth, make sure not to leave your pecan pie (or any perishable food) in the USDA's Danger Zone—between 40°F and 140°F—beyond the 2-hour mark.
What to Do With Leftovers
Freezing your pecan pie can help extend its shelf life. Whether you're preparing ahead for the holidays or simply have leftover pie, place your baked pecan pie in an airtight freezer bag or container and freeze it for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer the pie to the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours.
When it comes to reheating leftovers, Kolle has a special method to revive pecan pie. After removing it from the pie tin, she advises, 'Turn the entire pie upside-down and slice it.' She continues, 'Separate the slices—this allows air to circulate—and place them on a baking sheet with the slices facing up. Heat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, then serve the warm slices with a scoop of ice cream.'
