Indulge in the sweet, nutty decadence of a classic pecan pie with a healthier twist in this Kentucky Pecan Pie Lighter Version. Perfectly balancing tradition and guilt-free enjoyment, this recipe swaps out some of the heavier ingredients for light corn syrup and unsweetened applesauce, reducing calories without compromising flavor. A golden, flaky 9-inch pie crust cradles a luscious filling of eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla, while a generous layer of crunchy pecan halves takes center stage. Ready in just over an hour and yielding 8 perfect portions, this pie is ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a weekend treat. Top it with a dollop of light whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish that will delight your taste buds. Whether you're watching your waistline or simply exploring a modern take on a Southern classic, this lighter pecan pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a homemade pie crust, roll it out and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Lightly spray the dish with cooking spray if desired.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Add the light corn syrup, brown sugar, applesauce, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Spread the pecan halves evenly in the prepared pie crust. Pour the egg mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated and distributed.
Place the pie dish on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed, and the center no longer jiggles excessively when gently shaken.
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack, about 2-3 hours. This allows the filling to fully set for easy slicing.
Serve at room temperature or chilled. For an extra treat, pair with a dollop of light whipped cream or Greek yogurt on top.
Calories |
3103 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 166.1 g | 213% | |
| Saturated Fat | 36.9 g | 184% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 558 mg | 186% | |
| Sodium | 1639 mg | 71% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 389.2 g | 142% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.8 g | 46% | |
| Total Sugars | 259.0 g | ||
| Protein | 41.2 g | 82% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.1 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 244 mg | 19% | |
| Iron | 9.7 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 908 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.