If you're looking to indulge in a sweet treat, a slice of 1/6 pie (113 g) pecan pie packs a flavorful punch of 500 calories. But before you dig in, let's take a closer look at the nutritional content of this dessert.

Not surprisingly, pecan pie is high in fat, with 27 grams per serving. Carbohydrates come in at 63 grams, with only 5 grams of protein. But it's not all bad news. Pecans are a good source of heart-healthy unsaturated fats, and they also provide some fiber and protein.

In this article, we'll explore the calorie, fat, carbohydrate, and protein content of pecan pie, as well as provide information about serving size, ingredients, preparation, serving suggestions, storage instructions, and possible alternatives.

Calorie Content

As mentioned earlier, 1/6 pie (113 g) pecan pie contains approximately 500 calories. This is a significant amount of energy, and it's important to be mindful of your intake if you are trying to maintain or lose weight. However, enjoying a small slice of pecan pie in moderation is the key to incorporating it into a healthy diet.

Fat Content

Pecan pie is notoriously high in fat, with 27 grams per serving. The majority of this comes from the pecans and butter in the recipe. However, as previously mentioned, pecans are a great source of unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. If you're looking to reduce your fat intake, you can try substituting some of the butter with applesauce or a low-fat margarine.

Carbohydrate Content

Pecan pie is also high in carbohydrates, with 63 grams per serving. This is due to the added sugar and corn syrup used in the recipe. If you're looking to reduce your carbohydrate intake, you can try making a crustless or low-carb version of pecan pie. Additionally, incorporating more nutrient-dense carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables into your diet can help balance out your overall intake.

Protein Content

Pecan pie is not a significant source of protein, with only 5 grams per serving. While pecans themselves do contain some protein, the amount in the pie is relatively small. If you're looking to increase your protein intake, try pairing a small slice of pecan pie with a protein-rich food like Greek yogurt or add a scoop of protein powder to your coffee or smoothie.

Serving Size

One serving of pecan pie is typically considered to be 1/6 of a 9-inch pie, or approximately 113 grams. However, it's important to note that many people consume much larger portions, which can significantly increase the calorie, fat, and carbohydrate content. If you're trying to be mindful of your intake, consider using a smaller plate or dish to serve your dessert, and savor each bite slowly.

Ingredients

The traditional ingredients in pecan pie include a pie crust, pecans, butter, sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. There are many variations on this recipe, and some people choose to use alternative sweeteners or flours to make the pie healthier or gluten-free. Here is a basic recipe to get you started:

• 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the pecans. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.

Preparation

Preparing pecan pie is a relatively simple process, but it can be time-consuming. Here are some basic steps to follow:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Roll out your pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is slightly thickened.
4. Stir in the pecans and pour the mixture into the pie shell.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set.
6. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan pie is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to try:

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Serve with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
• Pair with a savory snack, like cheese or crackers, to balance out the sweetness.

Storage Instructions

To store pecan pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the pie for longer storage, but be sure to wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to serve the pie, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then let it come to room temperature before serving.

Possible Alternatives

If you're looking for a healthier or lower-calorie option, here are some possible alternatives to traditional pecan pie:

• Crustless pecan pie: Skip the crust to reduce the calorie and carbohydrate content of the dish.
• Low-carb pecan pie: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour to make the crust, and a low-carb sweetener instead of sugar in the filling.
• Pecan pie bars: Turn the pie into a bar or bite-sized treat to control portion sizes.