If you are craving a pecan pie with an unexpected Southern twist, this Grits Pecan Pie Recipe is your new go-to dessert. It combines the creamy, comforting texture of grits with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans in a buttery, sweet filling that bakes to perfection in a flaky pie crust. This pie has a depth of texture and warmth that makes every bite feel like a cozy celebration—whether for a holiday table or a simple weekend treat. The unique use of grits adds an extra layer of creaminess that transforms a traditional pecan pie into something memorable and truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each carefully chosen ingredient in this Grits Pecan Pie Recipe plays a vital role, from balancing sweetness to enhancing flavor and texture. You won’t need a long list, but these essentials are what make the pie sing.
- 1 cup water: The base for cooking the grits, providing that smooth, creamy consistency.
- ¼ cup quick cook grits: Adds a subtle creamy texture and hints of corn flavor that set this pie apart.
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter: Brings richness and depth to the filling’s flavor and helps create a smooth blend.
- 1 cup white sugar: Sweetens the mixture and balances the nutty notes perfectly.
- ¾ cup light corn syrup: Adds that classic glossy finish and chewy texture every pecan pie needs.
- 3 large eggs: The binding agent that sets the pie and gives it a custard-like feel.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor and adds warmth and aromatic appeal.
- 1½ cups coarsely chopped pecan halves: The star nut that brings crunch and toasty richness with every bite.
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust: Provides a buttery, flaky foundation perfect for holding the filling.
How to Make Grits Pecan Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grits
Start by bringing 1 cup of water to a rolling boil. Slowly stir in ¼ cup of quick cook grits, then return to a boil. Turn the heat down to medium-low and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens. This simple cooking step is essential to achieve the creamy texture that will blend beautifully into your pie filling. Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and let the grits cool slightly before moving on.
Step 2: Create the Butter and Sugar Mixture
In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of white sugar and ¾ cup of light corn syrup. Stir constantly and cook this mixture for about 10 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely, resulting in a smooth, glossy base. This process infuses richness and sweetness, ensuring a luscious filling.
Step 3: Combine Grits and Butter Mixture
Slowly whisk the cooked, slightly cooled grits into the warm butter and sugar mixture. The grits will introduce a creamy texture that balances the sticky sweetness. Allow this blend to cool slightly before the next step, which helps incorporate the eggs smoothly without curdling.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Pecans
Whisk 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract into the cooled grits and butter mixture until fully combined. Then stir in 1½ cups of coarsely chopped pecan halves. These ingredients bring structure, flavor, and the signature crunchy texture that make this pie a showstopper.
Step 5: Bake Your Pie to Perfection
Pour the filling into an unbaked 9-inch deep dish pie crust. Slide your pie into an oven preheated to 325ºF and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The pie is ready when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The oven slow-cooks everything into a beautiful, golden treasure.
How to Serve Grits Pecan Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream is perfect for highlighting the pie’s rich flavors. You can also sprinkle a few whole toasted pecans on top for a rustic, inviting look that adds a little extra crunch and elegance.
Side Dishes
This Grits Pecan Pie Recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For more festive occasions, serve alongside spiced coffee or sweet tea to round out a Southern-inspired dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your friends with a unique presentation, try serving individual mini Grits Pecan pies in muffin tins or brioche rolls filled with pecan pie filling. You could even make Grits Pecan Pie parfaits by layering pie filling with whipped cream and crushed pecan pie crust crumbs in clear glasses for an eye-catching dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, cover your Grits Pecan Pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying well beyond the initial feast.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie either before or after baking. Wrap the prepared pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pecan pie lasts well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To warm up slices of Grits Pecan Pie, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a 300ºF oven for about 10-15 minutes. This method preserves the texture, restoring that freshly baked warmth and buttery aroma.
FAQs
What makes this Grits Pecan Pie Recipe different from a traditional pecan pie?
The inclusion of cooked grits adds a luscious creaminess and subtle corn flavor to the filling, providing a unique twist on the classic pecan pie texture and taste.
Can I use regular grits instead of quick cook for this recipe?
Quick cook grits work best because they soften quickly and create the ideal texture without long cooking times. If using regular grits, you would need to adjust cooking time to ensure they are fully tender before adding to the filling.
Is it necessary to cook the sugar and corn syrup mixture before adding other ingredients?
Yes, this step helps dissolve the sugar thoroughly and develops the rich, caramel-like flavor that is essential for the pie’s filling consistency.
Can I substitute the deep dish pie crust with a homemade crust?
Absolutely! A homemade buttery, flaky crust works beautifully and adds your personal touch, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the pie.
How do I know when the pie is fully baked?
Look for a set filling that is only slightly jiggly in the center. The edges should be golden brown, and the pecans toasted. This ensures the perfect balance between gooey and firm.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to experience an unforgettable twist on a Southern classic, give this Grits Pecan Pie Recipe a try. From its creamy texture to the rich, nutty flavors, it’s a dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds and bookmarking your kitchen for years to come. So preheat your oven, gather these simple ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of Southern comfort that feels like a warm hug in every bite!
Print
Grits Pecan Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of Grits Pecan Pie, a unique twist on the classic Southern dessert. This pie combines creamy, cooked grits with a buttery, sweet pecan filling baked in a flaky pie crust, perfect for a comforting treat that celebrates traditional ingredients with a delightful texture and taste.
Ingredients
Grits Mixture
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup quick cook grits
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter
Pie Filling
- 1 cup white sugar
- ¾ cup light corn syrup
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups coarsely chopped pecan halves
Pie Crust
- 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325ºF to prepare for baking the pie evenly.
- Cook Grits: Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly stir in ¼ cup quick cook grits and return to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Remove from heat and let the grits cool slightly.
- Melt Butter and Combine Syrups: In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add 1 cup white sugar and ¾ cup light corn syrup, stirring constantly. Cook for about 10 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely, then remove from heat.
- Mix Grits and Eggs: Whisk the cooked grits into the butter-syrup mixture and allow to cool slightly. Then whisk in 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
- Add Pecans and Fill Pie Crust: Stir in 1½ cups coarsely chopped pecan halves. Pour the mixture into the unbaked 9-inch deep dish pie crust, spreading evenly.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the pie filling is set and lightly browned on top. Remove from oven and allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- Use quick-cook grits for faster preparation, but regular grits can be substituted with extra cooking time.
- Make sure the grits mixture cools slightly before adding eggs to prevent scrambling.
- For a deeper flavor, toast pecans lightly before adding them to the filling.
- Allow the pie to cool completely for the filling to fully set and enhance cutting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
