The first bite of Payday Pie is like unwrapping a long-awaited gift; the blend of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans hits just the right spot. I’ll never forget the day my friend brought it to our gathering, its irresistible scent filling the room before anyone even sat down. It became an instant favorite, a delightful twist on traditional desserts that always manages to surprise.
In times when fast food can feel like the only option, bringing homemade treats to the table makes all the difference. This pie is not just quick to prepare, with a total time of under an hour, but it straddles that perfect line between indulgence and comfort food. Combining creamy sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and the warmth of melted butter, plus the earthy crunch of pecans, every slice of this Payday Pie is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re winding down after a hectic week or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this pie makes every occasion feel special. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful dish!
Why You'll Love This Payday Pie
- This Payday Pie is a breeze to make, taking just under an hour from start to finish, which means you can whip it up even on the busiest of days.
- The combination of gooey chocolate and crunchy pecans creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Its versatility shines through as it suits any occasion, from cozy weeknight treats to impressive dessert offerings for gatherings.
- Not only does it taste amazing, but the beautiful presentation and rich colors make it visually irresistible, turning any table into a festive celebration.
Payday Pie Ingredients
• Create this delicious Payday Pie with these easy-to-find ingredients for a delightful treat!
For the Pie Filling
- Chopped pecans – add crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Chocolate chips – choose semi-sweet for a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the pie.
- Sweetened condensed milk – this is the secret ingredient that makes the filling creamy and sweet.
- Brown sugar – enhances the rich, caramel notes of this irresistible Payday Pie.
- Butter, melted – adds richness and helps bind the filling together beautifully.
- Vanilla extract – infuses the pie with warm flavor notes that elevate its taste.
For the Crust
- Pre-made pie crust – saves time and allows you to focus on the delicious filling!
Gather these simple ingredients and get ready to impress with your amazing Payday Pie!
How to Make Payday Pie
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving that golden, perfectly baked crust and setting the gooey filling.
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Position the pie crust in a pie dish and set it aside. Make sure the crust fits snugly, as it will cradle all that delicious filling!
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Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk in a mixing bowl. Stir until well combined, creating a luscious base for your pie.
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Add the vanilla extract and mix well. This little touch of flavor makes all the difference, bringing warmth and depth to your Payday Pie.
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Fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips gently. Blend until they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture, ensuring that each bite is filled with chocolate and nutty goodness.
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Pour the mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly. Watch as the filling fills every nook and cranny of the crust, ready for baking!
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Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown, and it’s slightly jiggles in the center.
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Cool before serving to allow the filling to firm up. Patience is key, as this cooling time enhances the delicious texture!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Payday Pie Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful Payday Pie and create something uniquely yours!
- Nut-Free: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a deliciously crunchy texture without the nuts.
- Vegan: Use dairy-free butter, coconut condensed milk, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising warmth that complements the sweet flavors brilliantly.
- Flavor Boost: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of espresso powder for a rich, mocha flavor that takes your pie to the next level.
- Fruit Infusion: Fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a chewy burst of fruity sweetness amidst the chocolate and pecans.
- Frozen Inspiration: Before baking, layer a few dollops of your favorite ice cream on top of the filling for a delightful frozen surprise.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top the cooled pie with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added layer of sweetness and decadence.
Whichever variation you choose, these twists will make your Payday Pie exciting and delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Payday Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pie filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the melted butter, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract as directed, then fold in the pecans and chocolate chips. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your Payday Pie, simply pour the chilled filling into a pre-made pie crust and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, just when you need it!
How to Store and Freeze Payday Pie
Fridge: Store leftover Payday Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep the pie fresh and delicious while preserving its unique flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled Payday Pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chocolate remains melty and delightful.
Room Temperature: If you plan to serve the pie soon, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours for optimal taste and texture before refrigerating any leftovers.
What to Serve with Payday Pie?
Cozy up your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the indulgence of this sweet treat.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture perfectly offsets the warm, gooey pie, creating a delightful contrast that tantalizes your taste buds. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a classic touch that will take every bite to the next level.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream offers a lovely, airy contrast to the richness of the pie. Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra layer of decadence that ties in beautifully with the chocolate chips.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee provides a rich, bold flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the pie. The comforting notes of coffee create a warm ambiance perfect for cozy gatherings with friends and family.
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Fresh Berries: Try serving with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of tartness and color. The fruity brightness beautifully contrasts the depths of chocolate and pecans in the pie, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice accentuates the pie’s sweet notes while adding a luxurious, buttery richness. It makes every bite a little more indulgent—perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
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Chai Tea: This spiced tea offers warmth and complexity that complements the rich flavors of the pie. The aromatic spices in chai elevate the dessert experience, making it feel like a true celebration.
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Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake: A deliciously indulgent pairing, this milkshake echoes the nutty pecans while providing a creamy, sweet counterpart to the pie. It’s a playful twist that would delight any dessert lover!
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Salted Caramel Brownies: If you’re feeling adventurous, serve alongside these brownies for a double chocolate and caramel treat. The extra richness balances the Payday Pie beautifully, turning dessert into a delightful feast.
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Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine brings a touch of elegance to your dessert table. Its effervescence dances on the palate, balancing the richness of the pie and making each bite a celebratory experience.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Payday Pie, ensure your butter is fully melted to combine seamlessly with the other ingredients, preventing any lumps.
- Be careful not to overmix the filling after adding the pecans and chocolate chips to retain some texture for the pie.
- If you prefer a firmer filling, bake the pie for an additional 5 minutes but keep an eye on it to avoid burning the top.
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing, as this will help it set properly and avoid a runny filling.
Payday Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of pecans should I use for Payday Pie?
Absolutely! Fresh, raw pecans are ideal for this recipe. You can also opt for roasted pecans if you prefer a deeper flavor. Just make sure they are chopped into small pieces to incorporate evenly into the filling!
How long can I store leftover Payday Pie in the fridge?
You can keep your delicious Payday Pie stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. This helps maintain its fresh flavor and delightful texture while you savor each slice.
Can I freeze Payday Pie? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Payday Pie, first let it cool completely. Then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?
Very! If your pie ends up runny after baking, it might not have set properly. Try baking it for an additional 5 minutes while keeping a close eye on it to avoid burning. Also, ensure you’ve allowed it to cool completely before slicing, as this helps the filling firm up.
Can I use a gluten-free pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you need a gluten-free option, feel free to use a gluten-free pre-made pie crust. There are many delicious varieties available that will pair wonderfully with the sweet filling of your Payday Pie, ensuring it’s still delightful without gluten.
Is there anything to consider if I have nut allergies?
Yes, if nut allergies are a concern, I recommend omitting the pecans altogether or substituting them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts. Just be sure to check any other packaged ingredients for hidden allergens.
Payday Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Position the pie crust in a pie dish and set it aside.
- Mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk in a mixing bowl.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips gently.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.
- Cool before serving to allow the filling to firm up.
