For those on a ketogenic diet, or simply seeking a healthier dessert option, this keto pecan pie recipe offers a delectable treat without the guilt. This recipe delivers the rich, gooey, and buttery essence of traditional pecan pie, but with a tiny fraction of the carbs. Winning accolades such as "BEST Keto Pecan Pie" from HighFalutin' Low Carb, this recipe proves that you can enjoy your favorite holiday desserts while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. With only 3g net carbs per serving, this is the sugar-free dessert of your dreams!
A Keto-Friendly Twist on a Classic
Pecan pie has long been a beloved dessert. The goal was to recreate this classic with a sugar-free approach, resulting in a keto pecan pie that is both satisfying and macro-friendly.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
- Keto Pie Crust: An almond flour pie crust forms the base, keeping the recipe keto-friendly.
- Butter: Feel free to use dairy-free if needed.
- Keto Granulated Sweetener: The choice of sweetener impacts the pie's texture; using a sweetener without erythritol yields an extra soft and gooey result.
- Keto Maple Syrup: Besti Maple Syrup is recommended for its lack of aftertaste.
- Pecans: Use raw and unsalted pecans.
- Xanthan Gum With Oil Or Melted Butter: Acts as a thickener.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
The Secret to Gooey Perfection: Sweetener Combinations
Achieving the perfect gooey center without sugar requires a strategic approach to sweeteners. A combination of Swerve Brown and Bocha Sweet is often recommended. Swerve Brown contributes a deeper caramel color and flavor, while Bocha Sweet prevents recrystallization as the pie cools.
Substitutions and Alternatives
- Swerve Brown: Any erythritol-based sweetener can be used, plus 1/2 teaspoon of molasses.
- Bocha Sweet: Several other sweeteners can maintain a soft and gooey filling. Xylitol is a viable alternative.
Step-by-Step Guide to Keto Pecan Pie
Full-Size Keto Pecan Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
- Keto Pie Crust: (partially-baked)
- Pecan Pie Filling:
- 4 tablespoon Butter
- 1 Cup Allulose - or ¾ cup of any other granulated sweetener
- ¼ Cup Keto Maple Syrup
- ¼ tsp. Xanthan Gum
- ½ tsp. Oil or Melted Butter
- ½ Cup Heavy Cream
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
- 2 tsp. Vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups Pecans
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust: Par-bake the pie crust as directed and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: Melt the butter over medium-low heat in a saucepan. Turn heat down to a low simmer, and allow to simmer 5 minutes, or until a deep golden brown. Be careful not to let it burn!
- Combine Thickener: In a small bowl, mix together the xanthan gum and oil or melted butter. Add the granulated sweetener, sugar-free maple syrup, and the xanthan gum mixture. Return to a low simmer, and simmer 8 - 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cream and Salt: Add the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt and vanilla. Set aside to slightly cool, 5 to 10 minutes.
- Whisk Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly whisk the butter/sugar mixture into the eggs.
- Assemble Pie: Sprinkle the pecans into the prepared pie crust. Pour the batter over the pecans. Cover the edges with a crust protector.
- Bake: Bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to 300 degrees and bake an additional 15 - 20 minutes or until the pie is nicely browned but the center isn't fully set.
- Cool and Chill: Cool completely, then chill for 1 hour before slicing to properly set up. Serve with keto vanilla ice cream and enjoy!
Mini Keto Pecan Pie Recipe
This recipe is perfect for a small batch, serving just two.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoon Butter
- 1 Cup Allulose - or ¾ cup of any other granulated sweetener
- ¼ Cup Keto Maple Syrup
- ¼ tsp. Xanthan Gum
- ½ tsp. Oil or Melted Butter
- ½ Cup Heavy Cream
- ½ teaspoon Sea Salt
- 2 tsp. Vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- Pecans, chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare Pecans: Preheat the oven to 325F. Set aside 6 to 8 pecan halves to top the pie, then use a sharp knife to chop the rest. Set aside while preparing the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the butter and two sweeteners. Whisk until the butter is melted and the sweeteners are dissolved, about 3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Remove from heat and whisk in the egg, then stir in the chopped pecans.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the mixture into one 8-ounce ramekin or two 4-ounce ramekins. Place the reserved pecan halves decoratively on top. Place the ramekins on a cookie sheet and transfer to the oven. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sides are set but the center is still wobbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove and let cool at least 15 minutes before serving. Top with lightly sweetened whipped cream or some keto ice cream. Share with your favorite person!
Tips for the Perfect Keto Pecan Pie
- Keep the Filling on Low Heat: Gently melt the butter and sweeteners, avoiding overheating to prevent the egg from curdling.
- Use Chopped Pecans: Chopped pecans create a more cohesive filling, especially in smaller pies.
- Don’t Overbake! The center should still be a little wobbly when you take it out of the oven.
- Crust Protection: Protect the crust edges from burning by using a crust protector or aluminum foil.
- Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool fully to ensure the filling sets properly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Runny Filling: Ensure the pie is baked long enough and cooled completely. Cold eggs or skipping arrowroot can also cause this issue.
- Burnt Crust: Cover the crust with foil during baking to prevent burning.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
- Serving: Serve with keto vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or coconut whipped cream. Consider adding sugar-free chocolate chips while the pie is still warm.
- Storage: Store covered at room temperature for one day or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and should be independently calculated for accuracy. Erythritol is often removed from the final carb count, as it does not affect blood glucose levels for some individuals.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Variations and Adaptations
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter in the crust and full-fat canned coconut milk in the filling.
- Paleo: Follow the dairy-free instructions and use coconut palm sugar and pure maple syrup.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto