Description
This rich and creamy Pecan Pie Dip combines a smooth cream cheese base with a luscious, homemade pecan topping that tastes just like pecan pie in a scoopable form. Perfect for parties or cozy gatherings, this dip pairs wonderfully with apple slices, pretzels, or cookies.
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, see notes)
- â…“ cup light corn syrup (107g)
- 3 tablespoons salted butter (42g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, thawed Cool Whip, powdered sugar, vanilla bean paste, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Chill the Base: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a pie dish. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the pecan topping, or for up to 1 day in advance to meld the flavors.
- Make the Pecan Topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine chopped pecans, light corn syrup, salted butter, large egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture begins to boil in the center.
- Cook the Syrup: Continue to gently boil the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. The color will shift from dark to pale and then back to dark, indicating the correct cooking stage.
- Cool the Topping: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pecan topping cool for 10 minutes to thicken before pouring it over the chilled cream cheese base.
- Serve the Dip: Once assembled, serve this decadent dip with fresh apple slices, pretzels, cookies, or your favorite dipping snacks immediately.
Notes
- Chop your pecans roughly for texture and to avoid overpowering the cream cheese base.
- This dip can be made a day ahead for convenience and better flavor melding.
- Ensure the pecan topping is not too hot when poured over the cream cheese base to avoid melting it.
- Substitute light corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a more natural option, though it may slightly alter the texture.
