Pecan Pie Dip Recipe
Introduction
Pecan Pie Dip is a delightful twist on the classic dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Creamy, sweet, and nutty, this dip pairs wonderfully with apple wedges, pretzel crisps, or graham crackers for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
- Dippers: apple wedges, pretzel crisps, or graham crackers for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to blend the softened cream cheese until soft and creamy. Add the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar, then whip until smooth.
- Step 2: Spread the cream cheese mixture in an even layer on the bottom of a pie plate. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the topping.
- Step 3: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the brown sugar, cold cubed butter, corn syrup, chopped pecans, vanilla, cinnamon, and coarse salt. Stir constantly and bring to a gentle bubble.
- Step 4: Cook the mixture for 1 minute, stirring continuously, then remove from heat and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir the pecan mixture and pour it evenly over the chilled cream cheese layer.
- Step 6: Serve immediately with apple wedges, pretzel crisps, or graham crackers. If chilled, let the dip sit at room temperature for a bit or microwave for about 15 seconds to soften the topping.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and mixing into the topping.
- Swap the corn syrup for maple syrup for a different, naturally sweet flavor.
- Use different dippers like vanilla wafers or sturdy cookies for a new twist.
- Make it ahead and refrigerate; bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Storage
Store leftover pecan pie dip covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature or microwave in short bursts (about 15 seconds) to soften the topping. Stir gently before serving to restore creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make pecan pie dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have light corn syrup?
Light corn syrup can be substituted with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey for a natural alternative, although this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
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Pecan Pie Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
Description
Pecan Pie Dip is a rich and creamy dessert dip inspired by traditional pecan pie, featuring a smooth cream cheese base topped with a warm, buttery pecan mixture. Perfect for serving with apple wedges, pretzel crisps, or graham crackers, this easy-to-make dip is ideal for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Base
- 8 ounces brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Pecan Topping
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
Dippers
- Apple wedges
- Pretzel crisps
- Graham crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In a mixing bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to blend the softened 8-ounce cream cheese until it becomes soft and creamy. Add 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream and 1 cup powdered sugar, then whip everything together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Chill the Base: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on the bottom of a pie plate. Place the plate in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the pecan topping.
- Make the Pecan Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine 1/3 cup brown sugar, 3 tablespoons cold cubed butter, 1/3 cup light corn syrup, 1 cup finely chopped pecans, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture just begins to bubble gently. Continue stirring and cook for 1 additional minute, then remove the pan from heat. Let the topping cool for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Combine Topping and Base: Once the pecan mixture has cooled slightly but is still pourable, stir it again and pour it evenly over the chilled cream cheese base.
- Serve: Serve the dip immediately with apple wedges, pretzel crisps, or graham crackers. If you need to store it, chill until ready to serve and let it sit at room temperature or microwave for about 15 seconds to soften the topping before enjoying.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Stir the pecan topping constantly to avoid burning and to achieve a smooth, caramel-like texture.
- You can prepare the base and topping in advance and assemble just before serving.
- If the topping hardens too much after chilling, warm it briefly in the microwave to soften for easy dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pecan pie dip, dessert dip, cream cheese dip, pecan dip, holiday dessert, easy dip recipe, party dip
