If you crave a Southern treat that perfectly marries gooey sweetness with a satisfyingly crispy shell, then you are in for a real delight. Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe offers that magical combination of crunchy, buttery crust wrapped around a rich, caramel-pecan filling that is downright irresistible. Each bite is like a warm hug from the South, showcasing familiar flavors elevated with a fun deep-fried twist that guarantees smiles at any gathering or family dessert table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, classic ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing a crucial role in creating the delectable textures and flavors that make these hand pies a standout Southern indulgence.
- Light brown sugar: provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness essential for that signature pecan pie flavor.
- Light corn syrup: adds gloss and helps bind the filling while keeping it gooey but not runny.
- Large eggs: enrich the filling, contributing to a smooth and creamy texture.
- Butter: adds richness and helps create that luscious mouthfeel in the filling.
- Salt: a pinch to balance the sweetness and highlight the nuts’ natural flavor.
- Chopped pecans: the star nut that provides signature crunch and Southern authenticity.
- Vanilla extract: lends a warm, aromatic depth that rounds out the filling perfectly.
- Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts: pre-made crusts save time while delivering buttery, flaky exteriors essential for that crisp bite.
- Vegetable oil: for frying, crucial to achieve the golden, crunchy crust that makes these hand pies sing.
- Powdered sugar: sprinkled on top for a delicate sweetness and pretty presentation.
How to Make Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
Start by heating a saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, butter, and salt all at once, stirring constantly. The mixture will begin to thicken slowly, usually in about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is key because you want a smooth, syrupy filling that’s neither too runny nor too solid, so patience and continuous stirring are your best friends here.
Step 2: Add Pecans and Flavor
Once the filling has thickened, remove the pan from heat. Stir in your chopped pecans and vanilla extract carefully but thoroughly. This mix will be the heart of your hand pies, loaded with nutty crunch and cozy vanilla warmth. Let it cool completely; this step ensures the filling will hold its shape when you fold your dough.
Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust Circles
Unroll your refrigerated pie crusts onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Using a 4 to 5-inch round cutter, cut circles out of the dough. These circles become the convenient vessel for your heavenly filling, and their size is perfect for that delightful hand-held portion everyone will love.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Hand Pies
Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cooled pecan filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold each circle in half to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then secure by pressing with a fork around the edges. This not only seals in the delicious filling but also gives your pies that charming rustic look.
Step 5: Deep Fry Until Golden Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Carefully drop the hand pies in batches to avoid crowding. Fry them for about 2 to 3 minutes per side or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. This hot oil transforms the flaky crust into a crispy shell while gently warming the filling inside.
Step 6: Drain and Dust with Sweetness
Remove the pies with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. While they are still warm, dust generously with powdered sugar. This final touch adds a festive sparkle and an extra hint of sweetness that balances the rich pecan pie filling.
How to Serve Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe
Garnishes
For an inviting final flourish, consider adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce alongside your Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe. A few whole pecans scattered on the plate or a sprinkle of cinnamon dust can also elevate the presentation and enhance the nutty notes.
Side Dishes
These rich hand pies pair beautifully with light, refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad or seasonal fruit. For a cozy Southern-style dessert plate, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of strong brewed coffee to balance out their sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your serving style by arranging these hand pies on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper or a colorful Southern-themed plate. You can also create mini versions for parties by using smaller pie crust cutters, making bite-sized versions that are perfect for sharing and sampling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust crisp and the filling delicious, ready for a quick snack or dessert the following day.
Freezing
You can freeze these hand pies before frying by sealing them tightly in freezer-safe bags and laying them flat. When ready to enjoy, fry directly from frozen, just allow an extra minute or two for them to cook through and become perfectly golden.
Reheating
To refresh and crisp up leftover or previously frozen pies, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may soften the crust and lose that coveted crispy texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated pie crust?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust works wonderfully if you prefer, just make sure it’s rolled out evenly to about 1/8-inch thickness for the best frying results.
Is deep frying the only way to cook these hand pies?
While deep frying is traditional and creates that classic crispy exterior, you can bake the hand pies at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden if you want a lighter option.
What type of oil is best for frying these pies?
Vegetable oil or any neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil works best, ensuring the pies fry evenly without imparting additional flavors.
How do I know the filling is cooked enough before assembling?
The filling should be thick and glossy after cooking on the stove; it will hold its shape when cooled without being too firm or too runny.
Can I make these hand pies gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free pie crust substitute, you can enjoy this Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe without worry. Just be mindful of the dough’s handling, as gluten-free crusts can be more delicate.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the nostalgia and charm packed inside every bite of Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe. I encourage you to dive in, try making them yourself, and watch how quickly they disappear at your next get-together. These hand pies celebrate Southern hospitality and sweet tradition in the most delicious and fun way possible. Happy frying!
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Deep Fried Pecan Pies: Crispy Southern-Style Hand Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 to 14 hand pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
These Deep Fried Pecan Pies are crispy, golden hand pies filled with a rich, sweet pecan filling. A delicious Southern-style treat, they combine the indulgence of traditional pecan pie with the fun, crispy texture of deep frying. Perfect for dessert or a special snack, these hand pies are dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
Pecan Pie Filling
- 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pie Crust and Frying
- 2 (14.1-ounce) packages Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine light brown sugar, light corn syrup, eggs, butter, and salt. Cook while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Pecans and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract. Set the filling aside to cool completely before assembling the pies.
- Cut Pie Crust Circles: Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts and use a round cutter or a glass to cut circles approximately 4 to 5 inches in diameter.
- Fill and Seal Pies: Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cooled pecan filling onto the center of each pie crust circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal the pies completely.
- Heat Oil and Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the hand pies in batches, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried pies using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. While still warm, dust the pies generously with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the pecan filling is completely cool before filling the crusts to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even frying and crispiness without absorbing too much oil.
- Use a deep-frying thermometer for accurate oil temperature control.
- These hand pies are best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in an oven to maintain crispness.
