Decadent Pecan Pie Dip Recipe
Decadent Pecan Pie Dip is a luscious layered dessert dip combining a smooth, fluffy cream cheese base with a warm, gooey pecan caramel topping. Perfect for parties or cozy gatherings, this sweet treat offers the familiar flavors of classic pecan pie in a rich, creamy form that’s easy to scoop and share.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Philadelphia brand works best)
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 4 oz whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream for richer flavor)
Pecan Topping
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (pure vanilla preferred)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into cubes (Kerrygold unsalted for richer flavor)
- 3/4 cup pecan halves, chopped (plus extra for garnish, freshly chopped for best texture)
- 1 egg (room temperature for better incorporation)
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and completely smooth with no lumps. This process creates air pockets that give the dip a luxurious texture. Once fluffy, gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula with a few careful strokes until just combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix to avoid deflating the whipped topping.
- Cook the Pecan Caramel Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, butter cubes, room temperature egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and to help the butter melt evenly into the mixture. When the mixture reaches a boil, reduce heat to medium-low and continue stirring gently for 3 to 5 minutes until the filling thickens, darkens slightly, and coats the back of a spoon. This cooking method ensures the egg is fully cooked, giving the filling a silky texture without raw egg flavor. Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes until warm but no longer hot.
- Assemble and Garnish the Dip: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a serving dish using a spatula to create a smooth, even layer. Carefully pour the warm pecan filling over the cream cheese base, allowing it to pool slightly on top without stirring or folding together to maintain the distinct layers. Finally, sprinkle the extra chopped fresh pecans on top just before serving to keep them crunchy and add visual appeal.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and egg for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the cream cheese and whipped topping layer to maintain lightness.
- Keep the chopped pecans garnish until serving to preserve their crunch.
- You can make the dip a few hours ahead; refrigerate after assembling and bring to room temperature before serving.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
Keywords: Pecan Pie Dip, dessert dip, pecan pie recipe, cream cheese dip, party dips, holiday dessert, pecan dessert