Have you ever found yourself in need of a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert, yet felt overwhelmed by elaborate recipes? I’ve been there too, especially during those busy weeks when indulgence feels like a distant dream. Enter Payday Pie—my go-to solution for satisfying sweet cravings without the stress!
This delightful pie is a treasure trove of rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and that luxurious sweetness from condensed milk. Just the thought of it brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and laughter around the table. And the best part? It requires minimal effort, taking just 15 minutes to prep and a mere 35 minutes in the oven! Perfect for days when time is of the essence but you still want to impress.
Whether you’re treating your loved ones or simply rewarding yourself after a long day, this pie is sure to enchant with its luscious flavors. So, grab your pie crust, and let’s dive into making this irresistible Payday Pie!
Why You'll Love This Payday Pie
- This Payday Pie is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep to get you on your way to dessert bliss.
- The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds.
- Its versatility means it can be served at any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration.
- Visually, this pie is stunning, ensuring it will be the centerpiece of your dessert table and leave everyone wanting more.
Payday Pie Ingredients
Unlock the magic of this easy-to-make pie with these simple ingredients!
For the Crust
- Pre-made pie crust – Perfect for quick assembly, allowing you to focus on the delicious filling.
For the Filling
- Chopped pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and complements the rich sweetness.
- Chocolate chips – Use semisweet or dark chips for that irresistible chocolatey goodness.
- Sweetened condensed milk – This is the secret ingredient that creates a creamy, luscious filling.
- Brown sugar – Enhances the flavor with its deep, caramel notes for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Butter, melted – Helps bind the filling ingredients together while adding richness.
- Vanilla extract – Elevates the sweetness and adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the pie.
Enjoy creating your dreamy Payday Pie with these straightforward ingredients that bring joy to every bite!
How to Make Payday Pie
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
This step is essential to ensure your pie bakes evenly and achieves that perfect set, so don’t skip it! -
Prepare the pie crust.
Place your pre-made pie crust in a pie dish. Gently press it into the corners, making sure it’s snug and ready to hold all that delicious filling! -
Combine butter, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk until smooth and well-mixed, about 1-2 minutes. -
Add vanilla extract and mix.
Stir in the vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavors and give your pie that lovely touch of warmth and aroma! -
Fold in pecans and chocolate chips.
Gently add the chopped pecans and chocolate chips to the mixture. Use a spatula to fold them in carefully, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. -
Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
Carefully pour the luscious filling into the prepared crust. Make sure to spread it evenly to achieve a nice, uniform pie. -
Bake for 30-35 minutes.
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake until it’s set and slightly golden on top. The filling should be firm but still have that soft, gooey interior! -
Cool before serving.
Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling firm up a bit more, making it easier to cut.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Payday Pie Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing your Payday Pie with these fun and delicious twists!
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Nut-Free: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version that everyone can enjoy.
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Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Coconut Twist: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical flair. The added texture and flavor will transport your taste buds to paradise!
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Salted Caramel: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce on top before baking for an indulgent touch. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and a delightful salty contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling to give your pie a surprising heat that makes every bite exciting. It’s a fun twist for those who love a little kick!
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Fruit Infusion: Toss in some dried fruit like cherries or raisins to give your pie a burst of fruity flavor. This adds a lovely chewiness and complements the chocolate perfectly.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the pre-made pie crust for a gluten-free version made from almond flour or a store-bought gluten-free crust, making this dessert accessible for everyone.
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Double Chocolate: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder into the filling for a deeper chocolate experience. This variation will definitely satisfy any chocoholic’s cravings!
What to Serve with Payday Pie?
Looking to elevate your dessert experience with delightful accompaniments that will bring out the best in each bite?
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey filling, adding a refreshing touch to each mouthful.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the pie’s sweetness while adding a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
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Hot Fudge Sauce: Pouring a rich chocolate fudge sauce over your slice deepens the chocolate flavor, turning every bite into a decadent delight.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness, offering a vibrant pop of flavor and color to your plate.
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Coffee or Espresso: Pairing your pie with a cup of rich coffee balances the sweetness and serves as a perfect midday pick-me-up.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce infused with nuts over the pie creates a multi-layered flavor experience with every bite.
Imagine serving your Payday Pie alongside these delicious treats; it’s sure to create memorable moments and happy taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Payday Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time and still impress! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the melted butter, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract, then folding in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the filling into the crust and pop it in the oven for 30-35 minutes. This makes for a stress-free dessert option that still delivers on flavor, ensuring your Payday Pie is just as delicious and crowd-pleasing!
Storage Tips for Payday Pie
Room Temperature: Store leftover Payday Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors.
Freezer: You can freeze Payday Pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air pockets are left.
Reheating: To enjoy your pie warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or place the whole pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Payday Pie, ensure your butter is entirely melted and slightly cooled before mixing it with the other filling ingredients to prevent curdling.
- A common mistake is overmixing the filling once the chocolate chips and pecans are added; fold gently to keep the mixture light.
- For an even richer flavor, consider using a combination of semisweet and dark chocolate chips, as this diversifies the sweetness and depth.
- Always let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes after baking; this setting time is crucial for achieving the perfect slice.
Payday Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I know when the pecans are ripe?
When selecting pecans, look for nuts that are firm to the touch, without any dark spots. Fresh pecans should be glossy and free from any rancid odors. If they have a grayish hue or are shriveled, skip those, as they may not provide the best flavor or crunch in your Payday Pie.
How should I store leftover Payday Pie?
For optimal freshness, cover your leftover Payday Pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer shelf life, pop it in the refrigerator where it can last up to 5 days.
Can I freeze Payday Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze your Payday Pie, first let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and again in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
What if my pie filling isn’t setting properly?
If your Payday Pie filling seems too runny after baking, it may need a bit more time in the oven. Every oven is slightly different, so if the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly, it’s likely done. Just let it cool completely—this will help it firm up more. Next time, remember to check your internal temperature as it should reach around 200°F (93°C) when perfectly set.
Is this pie suitable for people with nut allergies?
No, this Payday Pie contains chopped pecans, which means it’s not safe for those with nut allergies. If you’re looking to customize the recipe, consider replacing the pecans with seeds like sunflower seeds or omit them entirely; the pie will still maintain its delicious chocolate flavor!
Can I use different types of chocolate chips in the recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with your chocolate choices. You can use milk chocolate for a sweeter taste, dark chocolate for a richer flavor, or even white chocolate if you prefer a different twist. Mixing different types of chips can create a unique flavor profile that can make your Payday Pie even more special!
Payday Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the pie crust in a pie dish.
- Combine melted butter, brown sugar, and sweetened condensed milk in a mixing bowl.
- Add vanilla extract and mix.
- Fold in chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
- Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden.
- Cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.
