Bourbon pecan pie has always been a favorite in my household, especially during the holiday season. This pie takes the classic pecan pie up a notch by adding a touch of bourbon, giving it a richer and more complex flavor that is simply irresistible.
When I decided to make a bourbon pecan pie for Thanksgiving last year, I was thrilled with how easy it was to prepare and how delicious the outcome was. The addition of bourbon brought a warm, spicy note to the filling, making it a crowd-pleaser at every gathering.
So, what is the best bourbon for pecan pie?
My favorite bourbon for making pecan pie is Wild Turkey 101. It’s a solid choice because it keeps the amazing Kentucky flavor. Plus, the alcohol cooks off in the oven, so no worries about getting tipsy. The rich taste really shines in the pie, making it something special.
Why Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon is My Favorite Choice for Pecan Pie
Taste and Finish
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon stands out in pecan pie. It has a powerful mix of vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, and other baking spices. These flavors make it excellent for baking.
| Flavor | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial | Vanilla and caramel |
| Middle | Cinnamon and baking spices |
| Finish | Citrus notes |
When baked, the alcohol’s sharpness fades, leaving behind a sweet and smoky flavor. Plus, I love the festive turkey on the bottle!
More top bourbons for pecan pie
If you’re thinking of adding a splash of bourbon to your pecan pie, there are a few standout options based on my exploring.
Buffalo Trace
I’m a big fan of Buffalo Trace. It brings a balanced taste with hints of vanilla and caramel. This makes it a great choice for adding depth to a classic southern pecan pie. It’s especially nice for fall and Thanksgiving desserts.
Maker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark is another good choice. This whiskey has a warm spice flavor with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and ginger. You can also pick up vanilla and caramel notes. It’s perfect if you want your pecan pie to have a bold, spicy kick that feels just right for cooler weather.
Knob Creek
Then, there’s Knob Creek. This one starts with flavors of maple, caramel, and vanilla, with a smoky finish. There are underlying hints of cinnamon, molasses, and brown sugar. These flavors can really elevate your pecan pie, making it a treat that everyone will remember.
Four Roses
Four Roses offers a flavor mix that’s unique. The main notes are dried apricot, light peach, citrus blossom, and lavender, with a dash of light spice and oak. It adds a nice twist to the traditional pecan pie flavor.
Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is another top pick. It features a bold flavor with notes of spice, pepper, and a hint of sweetness. It’s great if you’re seeking a more robust bourbon flavor in your pie.
Trying different bourbons can be fun and a bit adventurous. If you’re like me and want to keep things simple, experimenting to find your favorite match for pecan pie is a tasty endeavor.
And, if you’re on a budget, there are still many good, budget-friendly bourbons out there that won’t break the bank. Adding your favorite bourbon can make your Thanksgiving dessert special and something to look forward to each year.
My easy 4-ingredient bourbon pecan pie recipe
This recipe is perfect for those who love simplicity without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 jar of Grandma Hoerner’s Pecan Pie Filling
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1 splash of Wild Turkey Bourbon
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, melted butter, and bourbon until smooth.
- Fold in the pecan pie filling until evenly mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Enjoy this delightful and simple bourbon pecan pie!
My Secret Ingredient
I have a little trick to make my bourbon pecan pie stand out. I add a pinch of ground ancho chile. It seems unusual, but trust me, it makes a difference! The chile doesn’t make the pie spicy; instead, it adds depth and a touch of balance to the sweetness. This tiny addition will leave everyone wondering what makes your pie so irresistible.
Special tools (optional)
Here are some tools that can make baking easier:
- Mixing Bowl: Great for whisking and mixing ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: Handy for backing up and catching drips.
- Aluminum Foil or Pie Crust Shield: Shields the crust edges from burning.
- Cooling Rack: Helps the pie cool down evenly.
- Serrated Pie Knife: Makes clean slices.
Consider these: 9-inch pie plate for the right size, parchment paper for easy cleanup, and a rolling pin for smooth dough. A food processor speeds up tasks like chopping nuts. For the overhang, aluminum foil helps perfect it.
Freezing instructions
Freezing bourbon pecan pie is an excellent way to make sure it’s ready when you need it, up to 2 months in advance. I wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap first, and then add a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection.
When it’s time to enjoy the pie, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Before serving, you can heat it up slightly if you prefer it warm. For a fun addition, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some whipped cream. This pie makes a delightful dessert for any occasion!