Brown Butter Pecan Pie with Flaky Cheddar Crust: A Sweet and Savory Twist

Brown Butter Pecan Pie with Flaky Cheddar Crust is a twist on the classic southern dessert. The nutty richness of browned butter blends with sweet pecans, while the sharp cheddar crust adds a savory balance that keeps every bite from being overly sweet. This pie is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any time you want a show-stopping dessert that feels familiar yet unique.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS BROWN BUTTER PECAN PIE WITH FLAKY CHEDDAR CRUST RECIPE:

• Brown butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that elevates the filling.
• The cheddar crust is buttery, flaky, and balances sweetness.
• Pecans provide crunch and richness in every bite.
• It’s an impressive dessert that feels special without being complicated.

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HOW TO MAKE BROWN BUTTER PECAN PIE WITH FLAKY CHEDDAR CRUST

You’ll prepare a cheddar cheese pie crust, brown the butter for the filling, and bake until the filling is set and glossy.

Ingredients:

For the cheddar crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2–4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, browned
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups pecan halves

Directions:

1. In a bowl, whisk flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Stir in cheddar cheese. Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together.
2. Shape into a disc, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
3. Roll dough into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim edges and chill while preparing the filling.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook until golden brown with a nutty aroma. Let cool slightly.
5. In a bowl, whisk corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and browned butter until smooth. Stir in pecans.
6. Pour filling into prepared crust.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–55 minutes until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Cool completely before slicing.

HOW TO SERVE BROWN BUTTER PECAN PIE WITH FLAKY CHEDDAR CRUST

Serve at room temperature or lightly chilled. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.

HOW TO STORE BROWN BUTTER PECAN PIE WITH FLAKY CHEDDAR CRUST

• Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

TIPS TO MAKE

• Watch the butter closely while browning; it can burn quickly.
• Shred cheddar cheese finely so it blends evenly in the crust.
• Chill the crust before baking to keep it flaky.
• Use toasted pecans for even deeper flavor.

VARIATION

• Add a splash of bourbon or dark rum to the filling.
• Swap sharp cheddar with smoked cheddar for a savory kick.
• Use maple syrup in place of corn syrup for a richer flavor.

BROWN BUTTER PECAN PIE WITH FLAKY CHEDDAR CRUST FAQ

BEGINNER, TIPS AND NOTES: Your Kitchen Companion

• Always let the browned butter cool before adding to eggs, or it may scramble them.
• Chill pie dough before rolling for easier handling.
• Place a baking sheet under the pie to catch drips.

DETAILS

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Chill time: 30 minutes
• Bake time: 55 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Servings: 8

NOTES

• Sharp cheddar gives the best contrast in flavor.
• Use fresh pecans for the best taste and texture.
• Let the pie cool completely before slicing to set properly.

CONCLUSION

Brown Butter Pecan Pie with a Flaky Cheddar Crust brings together sweet, savory, and nutty flavors in every slice. The browned butter deepens the filling, the cheddar crust balances sweetness, and the pecans add crunch. It’s a pie that feels familiar yet surprising, making it a perfect choice for special gatherings or when you want to impress with something truly memorable.