Karo Syrup Pecan Pie is a holiday dessert staple — and for good reason. It’s rich, sweet, nutty, and features that iconic gooey center that holds together just enough to slice beautifully. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just craving a slice of Southern comfort, this classic recipe delivers that nostalgic flavor everyone loves.
Made with simple ingredients like Karo syrup, fresh pecans, and a buttery crust, it’s practically foolproof — even for beginner bakers. Get ready for compliments and requests for seconds!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Foolproof filling: Thanks to Karo syrup, your pie sets perfectly every time.
- Classic flavor: Sweet, nutty, and buttery with a hint of vanilla.
- Simple ingredients: Pantry staples + fresh pecans = pie perfection.
- Crowd-pleasing: A holiday hit that pairs well with almost any meal.
- Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and store for stress-free holidays.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup (Karo preferred)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups pecan halves or pieces (fresh is best)
For the crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie shell (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat. - Mix the filling:
In a large bowl, combine corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir until smooth. - Add the pecans:
Gently fold in the pecan halves or pieces. Stir to evenly distribute. - Fill the pie crust:
Pour the filling into the unbaked pie shell. Spread pecans evenly. Optional: arrange pecans neatly on top for presentation. - Bake:
Place the pie on the middle oven rack and bake for 60–70 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly but not slosh. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil. - Cool completely:
Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling fully set.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
- Total Time: 75–85 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Difficulty: Medium
Nutrition Facts (Per slice – approx.)
- Calories: 460
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 35g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 100mg
Tips & Variations
- Don’t skip cooling time! It’s key for slicing without the filling oozing out.
- Use pecan halves for a prettier pie or pieces for a more rustic look.
- Want deeper flavor? Sub ½ cup brown sugar for white sugar.
- Make it boozy: Add 1 tbsp bourbon or dark rum to the filling.
- Try a chocolate twist: Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the filling.
FAQs
Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
Yes, it’ll add a deeper, more molasses-like flavor.
Should I pre-bake the pie crust?
Not necessary if using a deep-dish crust and baking for 60+ minutes, but you can blind bake for 10 minutes if you prefer a crisper base.
How do I know the pie is done?
The edges will be set, and the center should jiggle slightly but not be liquid. A knife inserted halfway from center to edge should come out mostly clean.
Can I freeze pecan pie?
Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Karo Syrup Pecan Pie
Equipment
- – Mixing bowl
- – Whisk or spoon
- – Pie plate
- – Oven
- – Wire rack
- – Foil (optional)
Ingredients
- **Filling:**
- – 1 cup light corn syrup Karo
- – 1 cup granulated sugar
- – 3 large eggs
- – 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- – 1 tsp vanilla extract
- – 1½ cups pecan halves or pieces
- **Crust:**
- – 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie shell
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, stir together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla until fully combined.
- Fold in pecans and mix well.
- Pour into pie shell and spread pecans evenly. Arrange decoratively if desired.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool completely on a rack for at least 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
– Store covered at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week
– Freeze whole or by slice for up to 3 months
Conclusion
There’s a reason Karo Syrup Pecan Pie is a holiday classic — it’s reliable, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll end up with a showstopping dessert that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Whether served with whipped cream, ice cream, or just a fork, this pie is sure to become a family favorite for years to come.