Pecan Pie Tray Bake 🥧
Introduction
This Pecan Pie Tray Bake is a crowd-pleasing, one-pan dessert featuring a buttery crust, a rich caramel-like filling, and a crunchy pecan topping. It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a rustic, shareable sweet treat.
Ingredients
- For the crust: 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 3/4 cup (170 g) cold unsalted butter (cubed), 3–4 tbsp ice water
- For the filling: 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 3/4 cup (180 ml) light corn syrup or golden syrup, 3 large eggs, lightly beaten, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 tsp salt
- Topping: 2 cups (200–240 g) pecan halves (reserve a few for decoration)
Instructions
- Make the crust: In a bowl combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, just until dough holds together. Shape into a disk, wrap and chill 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch (or similar) baking pan with parchment and lightly grease.
- Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit the pan. Press dough into the pan evenly, trimming edges. Prick crust with a fork. Blind-bake the crust for 12–15 minutes until just set and very lightly golden. Remove and reduce oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Prepare filling: In a medium bowl whisk together brown sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla and salt until smooth.
- Arrange pecans in an even layer over the pre-baked crust. Pour the filling slowly over the pecans so they are evenly coated.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35–45 minutes, or until filling is set but slightly jiggles in the center (it will firm as it cools). If edges brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
- Cool completely on a wire rack (2 hours recommended) before slicing into squares. Store covered at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Methods
- Blind-bake crust: helps prevent a soggy bottom when using a wet filling.
- Bake low and slow: ensures the filling sets without burning the pecans.
- Sheet-pan format: makes serving easier for large groups (tray-style squares instead of a round pie).
History
Pecan pie is an American classic with roots in the southern United States. This tray-bake adaptation keeps the same flavors—sweet, buttery, nutty—but makes the dessert easier to prepare and serve for crowds.
Benefits
- Pecans provide healthy fats, minerals and antioxidants.
- Tray format is time-saving and ideal for entertaining.
- Made-at-home desserts let you control quality and ingredients.
Formation
The structure comes from a sturdy shortcrust base supporting a thick, sugar-and-egg custard-like filling. During baking, the sugars caramelize and bind with the eggs and cream, giving a glossy, slightly chewy interior under the crunchy pecans.
Lovers
This dessert is beloved by those who enjoy nut-forward sweets, fans of Southern baking, and anyone who appreciates rich, comforting desserts at gatherings.
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Tray Bake 🥧 delivers the classic flavors of pecan pie in an easy, shareable format. Perfect for family meals and celebrations—slice into squares, serve with whipped cream or ice cream, and enjoy.