Description

This Pecan Pie Dip is a decadent and creamy dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a rich and nutty treat. Featuring a smooth cream cheese base topped with a warm, gooey pecan pie-inspired topping, this dip pairs wonderfully with apples, pretzels, cookies, and more. Quick to prepare with just a few simple ingredients, it combines classic pecan pie flavors in an easy-to-serve dip form.

Ingredients

Scale

Cream Cheese Base

8 ounces cream cheese (227g, softened)
4 ounces Cool Whip (113g, thawed)
1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or extract)
¼ teaspoon salt

Pecan Topping

1 cup chopped pecans (120g)
⅓ cup light corn syrup (107g)
3 tablespoons salted butter (42g)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, thawed Cool Whip, powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste, and ¼ teaspoon salt until creamy and smooth.
Chill Cream Cheese Base: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in a pie dish. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the topping, or up to 1 day in advance to set flavors.
Make Pecan Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped pecans, light corn syrup, salted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture starts to boil in the center.
Boil Topping Mixture: Reduce to a slow boil and continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Watch for the mixture to shift in color from dark to pale and back to dark again to ensure proper consistency.
Cool and Combine: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the topping cool in the pot for 10 minutes. Then pour the pecan topping evenly over the chilled cream cheese base.
Serve: Enjoy immediately with fresh apple slices, pretzels, cookies, or your preferred dippers for a delicious dessert experience.

Notes

Chopped pecans can be lightly toasted for enhanced flavor before adding to the topping.
The egg in the topping mixture is gently cooked through boiling, but ensure it reaches a safe temperature for consumption.
Dark to pale and back to dark color change during topping cooking is key for correct texture.
Dip can be refrigerated covered for up to 24 hours before serving.
Serve with crisp fruits or salty snacks for the best flavor contrast.