A flaky, buttery gluten free pecan pie that is inspired by Southern pecan pie flavors: bourbon, maple syrup and pecans.
Made without corn syrup or artificial ingredients, this healthy pecan pie makes for a showstopper gluten free Thanksgiving dessert!
Pair it with incredible maple dulce de leche cream for the ultimate fall comfort food experience.
A Southern twist on gluten-free Thanksgiving dessert
Since I was a university student, I became obsessed with the legend of the American South.
The sounds of the banjo and bluegrass, the taste of bourbon, the sordid history of the antebellum period and the Black Freedom movement - they all wove a certain spell on me.
In my worst spells, I binged shows like True Blood, read Edgar Ellen Poe and Flannery O'Connor, and listened to Southern Gothic music like there was no tomorrow.
My dream for many, many years was to rent an open-back truck, grab a boyfriend who can play guitar and take a road trip through the Southern U.S., particularly in summer, so I can taste all the Georgia Peaches and peach desserts.
So you can bet that whenever it came to Thanksgiving, my mind immediately went to Southern flavors - and this Southern Gluten-Free Pecan Pie is the culmination of many years of experiments!
When to serve this pie?
The ultimate gluten free Thanksgiving pie
I kid you not, this maple-sweetened, bourbon-tinged pecan pie is my favorite Thanksgiving dessert. Step aside, classic pumpkin pecan pie, or even novelties like hubbard squash pie, none of you stand a chance next to this gluten free pecan pie recipe.
But of course, you don't have to wait to Thanksgiving to serve this beauty! Whip it up on any winter or fall weekend when you're looking for baking inspiration. This pie presents the perfect ending to a rich meal full of fall-friendly recipes.
For dishes that would go well with this maple pecan pie, check out some of my favorite Thanksgiving recipes. I love to serve it with a bourbon-based drink like this classic mint julep recipe!
Why you have to try this gluten free pecan pie recipe
Here's why I think this is the best gluten free pecan pie out there:
- Perfect, flaky gluten free pie crust
- Maple pecan filling
- Just the right amount of sweetness
- Dairy-free (and vegan option!)
- Refined-sugar free recipe
- Made without corn syrup
- Paleo
- Easy to prep
- Can be made ahead
- Freezer-friendly
The perfect gluten free almond flour pie crust
For this recipe, I present you with my favorite, the perfect almond flour pie crust!
I have originally seen this crust developed by Jenni from the cookbook My Paleo Patisserie. It's maleable, easy to work with, and tastes beautifully after baking, even if it was made ahead.
For this gluten free pie crust, almond flour is mixed with arrowroot starch, coconut oil and an equal amount of maple syrup. You can also use tapioca starch or corn starch for the same results.
This is definitely the best almond flour pie crust I ever tried, and I love using it for sweet and savory gluten free tarts, galettes and pies (for a savory twist, omit the syrup and add more salt).
How to go about measuring gluten-free flour
As always, weighing your gluten free flour is better than measuring by cups.
If measuring your gluten free flour by cup, make sure you spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level. Do not dunk the measuring cup into the flour, as this will result in an overly loose and uneven flour scoop.
Is this gluten-free and dairy-free pecan pie really healthy?
Yes! Well, as healthy as a Thanksgiving dessert is going to be. The gluten free pie crust is made with almond flour and a bit of arrowroot starch. Almond flour pie crust is really nice to work with, and has a natural sweetness to it that I just love.
The only sweetener used here is maple syrup. I just love the rich, deep flavor it provides the filling and my almond flour pie crust. It's also a paleo sweetener and will be more gentle on your blood sugar levels than regular or brown sugar.
The only truly "unhealthy" or decadent touch in this bourbon maple pie is, you guessed, bourbon! I love it for that true Southern Gluten-Free Pecan Pie feel, but you can easily skip it. You don't even have to sub it for anything.
Ingredients
To make this gluten free, dairy free pecan pie, you will need:
- Almond flour: Provides a nutty flavor and tender texture to the gluten-free pie crust, serving as the foundation for this indulgent dessert. Alternatives like coconut flour can be used for a variation in flavor and texture.
- Arrowroot starch: Adds lightness and helps bind the crust together, ensuring a delicate yet sturdy base for the pecan pie filling. Cornstarch or tapioca starch can be substituted if arrowroot starch is unavailable.
- Maple syrup: Offers natural sweetness and enhances the flavor profile of the crust, imparting a subtle maple essence to complement the pecan filling. Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- Coconut oil: Contributes moisture and richness to the crust, resulting in flakiness and a buttery texture without the need for dairy. Butter or ghee can be substituted for a traditional pie crust flavor.
- Pecan halves: The star ingredient of the pie, imparting a rich, buttery flavor and delightful crunch, creating a harmonious balance with the sweet filling. Walnuts or hazelnuts can be used as alternatives for a different nutty flavor but chopped pecans are my favorite.
- Coconut sugar (or light or dark brown sugar): Sweetens the filling and adds depth of flavor, caramelizing during baking to create a luscious, gooey texture. Granulated sugar or maple sugar can be used as alternatives for varying sweetness levels.
- Eggs: Bind the filling together and provide structure, ensuring a cohesive texture that holds together when sliced. Flax eggs or chia eggs can be used for a vegan version of the pie.
- Bourbon (optional): Infuses the pie with a subtle depth of flavor and warmth, adding complexity to the filling. Whiskey or rum can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- Dulce de leche (optional): Elevates the dessert with creamy, caramelized sweetness, enhancing the indulgence of the pie. Caramel sauce or butterscotch sauce can be used as alternatives for a similar effect.
- Heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the maple dulce de leche cream, creating a luxurious topping for the pie. Coconut cream or whipped coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- Vanilla pudding: Enhances the flavor and texture of the cream with a hint of vanilla sweetness, providing a delightful contrast to the rich pecan filling. Custard or whipped cream can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- Flaky sea salt: Provides a finishing touch, enhancing flavors and adding subtle contrast of texture, elevating the overall dessert experience with a hint of savory complexity. Coarse kosher salt or Himalayan pink salt can be used as alternatives for a similar effect.
See recipe card for exact quantities.
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- rolling pin
- pie beads
- pie crust shield
- standing mixer or a handheld mixer
Directions
Make the gluten-free pie crust recipe
Start by preparing your own homemade gluten-free pie crust. I guarantee it will be better than any store bought gluten free pecan pie recipe. Preheat oven to 325 F. Prepare a 9-inch pie dish by greasing it with coconut oil.
In a large bowl, whisk together flours and salt until fully blended. Add coconut oil, syrup and vanilla extract. Mix fully until a soft dough forms. Wrap dough up in plastic and chill for 15-30 minutes.
Roll out and bake the crust
Using a rolling pin, roll pie dough into desired shape, as per the shape of your pan. Lay the dough out in the prepared pie dish. If desired, flute or crimp the edges of the crust for a decorative design (you can also press a fork into the edges of the crust all around the pie).
Blind-bake the pie crust. (Blind baking a pie means to pre bake the pie crust. You top the pastry with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then fill the pie with baking beans or pie beads and bake it without a filling.)
Make the dairy free pecan pie filling
To make the filling, whisk together melted coconut oil, coconut sugar (or brown sugar) and arrowroot starch in a large bowl. Whisk in vanilla extract, salt, eggs, syrup and bourbon, if using.
Spread the pecans inside the prepared pie crust. Pour the liquid mixture over the pecans, sealing them in place.
Bake our classic pecan pie
Increase the oven to 350 F. Transfer pecan pie to the oven, and bake until the top is lightly browned.
Check on pie halfway through the baking - if the edges are browning, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield
Once pie is baked, removed from the oven and place on a cookie rack to cool completely and for the filling to set. If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt on top.
Make maple dulce de leche cream (optional)
Using a standing mixer or a handheld mixer, whip cream and vanilla pudding until firm peaks are attained. Fold in dulce de leche and syrup. Chill in freezer for 30 minutes.
If desired, pipe around the edges of the chilled pie. You can also serve the maple dulce de leche cream on the side.
Serve gluten free pecan pie
Serve pecan pie in room temperature with maple dulce de leche cream, regular whipped cream, coconut cream, or the classic: a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Make ahead and storage
This gluten free pecan pie can be made ahead. It will keep perfectly fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days, and you don't even need to reheat it.
If you'd like to make the gluten free pie crust in advance, you can leave it raw and wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be blind baked as well.
The maple dulce de leche cream will keep in an airtight jar for 3-4 days as well.
The entire maple pecan pie can be baked and frozen. Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
You can also freeze the crust, raw or blind-baked. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure you defrost it fully in the refrigerator before attempting to roll, fill or bake.
Adaptations
This maple pecan pie is naturally gluten free, dairy-free and refined-sugar free. It is also sweetened with maple syrup, and therefore made without corn syrup. Looking for a paleo pecan pie? This fits the bill!
The maple dulce de leche cream is gluten-free but not dairy-free or refined-sugar-free, but you can skip it without any harm (for vegan cream, try my vegan dulce de leche recipe).!
Gluten-free maple walnut pie
You can substitute the pecans in this Thanksgiving dessert for walnuts. Dice them for a better texture, as they are less soft than pecans when baked. You can also use hazelnuts.
Keto & Whole 30
This recipe can be adapted to make a keto pecan pie. Use coconut flour in place of arrowroot powder in the crust. Substitute the syrup for erythritol or xylitol in a 1:1 ratio for a low carb pecan pie.
Vegan
Though I have not tried it, you can attempt to use an egg replacer like JUST eggs in this maple pecan pie filling.
If looking to substitute the maple dulce de leche cream, feel free to serve this dairy free pecan pie with coconut cream, or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a dairy free option.
Top Tips
Chill your pie crust for at least 15, and preferably 30 minutes before rolling it out. If baking on a hot day, chill it again once it's been rolled out in the pan and crimped.
Do not skip the blind baking stage - it really upgrades this pie's texture!
Crimp the edges of the pie for a beautiful design, especially if not serving with maple dulce de leche cream.
If you have any leftover dough, you can cut out toppings to decorate the pie.
To protect your oven from spills, place the pie pan on a baking sheet while baking.
Cool the gluten-free maple pecan pie completely before slicing.
If looking to substitute the maple dulce de leche cream, feel free to serve this dairy free pecan pie with coconut cream, or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream.
Accompanying dishes:
Recipe
Tried and loved this recipe? Please leave a 5-star review below! Your reviews mean a lot to me, so if you've got any questions, please let me know in a comment.
Gluten free pecan pie with maple dulce de leche cream
Equipment
- Standing mixer or hand held mixer
- Large bowls
- Medium bowl
- 9-inch pie dish
- pie baking beans
Ingredients
For gluten free almond crust:
- 1 ½ cups 160g almond flour
- 2 tablespoons arrowroot starch
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For maple pecan pie filling:
- 2 ½ cups (250g) pecan halves
- 5 Tablespoons (72g) coconut oil, melted
- ½ cup (100g) coconut sugar, or light or dark brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoon arrowroot starch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 1 cup (250 mL) pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
For maple dulce de leche cream (optional):
- 1 cup (250 mL) dulce de leche
- 1 cup (250 mL) heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons vanilla pudding
Instructions
Make the gluten free pie crust
- Preheat oven to 325 F. Prepare a 9-inch pie dish by greasing it with coconut oil.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flours and salt until fully blended. Add coconut oil, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Mix fully until a soft dough forms. Wrap dough up in plastic and chill for 15-30 minutes.
- Using a rolling pin, roll dough into desired shape, as per the shape of your pan. Lay the dough out in the prepared pie dish. If desired, flute or crimp the edges of the crust for a decorative design (you can also press a fork into the edges of the crust all around the pie).
- Blind-bake the pie crust for 10 minutes. (Blind baking a pie means you top the pie crust with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then fill the pie with baking beans or pie beads and bake it without a filling.)
Make the dairy free pecan pie filling
- To make the filling, whisk together melted coconut oil, coconut sugar (or brown sugar) and arrowroot starch in a large bowl. Whisk in vanilla extract, salt, eggs and maple syrup.
- Spread the pecans inside the warm pie crust. Pour the liquid mixture over the pecans, sealing them in place.
Bake maple pecan pie
- Increase the oven to 350 F. Transfer pecan pie to the oven, and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
- Check on pie halfway through the baking - if the edges are browning, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield
- Once pie is baked, removed from the oven and place on a cookie rack to cool completely and for the filling to set. If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt on top.
Make maple dulce de leche cream (optional)
- Using a standing mixer or a handheld mixer, whip cream and vanilla pudding until firm peaks are attained. Fold in dulce de leche and 1 teaspoon of maple syrup. Chill in freezer for 30 minutes.
- If desired, pipe around the edges of the chilled pie. You can also serve the maple dulce de leche cream on the side.
Serve gluten free pecan pie
- Serve gluten free pecan pie in room temperature with maple dulce de leche cream, regular whipped cream, or coconut cream.
Chandice Probst says
Yum I love the made my favorite pie with of maple syrup and an almond flour crust! Fantastic for the holidays especially for those looking for a little bit different of an option.
Thank you thank you!
kseniaprints says
I am so glad this appeals to you! Hooray to different options 🙂
Allyssa says
Thank you so much for this amazing pecan pie recipe! So easy to make and tasted really delicious! Highly recommended, will surely have this again!
kseniaprints says
I am so happy to hear you and your family enjoyed it!!!
Angie says
Your beautiful pie looks so good with the pretty piped cream and vanilla edges, and I can’t wait to make this!
kseniaprints says
Thank you! It was so fun to decorate 🙂
Gwynn says
So delicious and I will be making this recipe during the holidays for sure!
kseniaprints says
It's going to really brighten up your holidays!!!
Jael says
That pecan pie of yours looks absolutely divine:)
kseniaprints says
Sounds right for a Southern inspired dessert 😉
Mikayla says
A modernization for dietary needs, yet still has wonderful flavor and is very pretty as well.
kseniaprints says
Thank you!!!
Linda says
You got me at dulce de leche cream and it's so good and perfect with this pie
kseniaprints says
That's exactly how I feel! I eat that cream with a spoon.
Loreto and Nicoletta says
I love the idea of changing things up a bit. Your pie looks incredible and that border crust beautiful. I had this visual of you and the open back truch with your boyfriend in the back playing guitar. I think it's the makings of a new country hit. Peacan pie, my truch and Bo, lol!
kseniaprints says
You made me laugh!!! I hope I can bring that country video to life one day, even if now we will likely have two kids hogging up the rear!
Kate says
This pie was easy to make and it turned out so good! Thank you for including step by step photos.
kseniaprints says
So glad it made the process easier for you!
Ramona says
My kids absolutely love pecan pie and this would be the perfect recipe to make for them! I can't wait to try this, thank you for sharing this recipe!
kseniaprints says
You have some lucky kids!
Matt says
The dolce de leche cream is so simple but amazing. Goes perfectly on this and gonna try it on some other desserts.
kseniaprints says
It's seriously THE BOMB. I love putting it on everything.
Amy Casey says
I can't wait to make this pecan pie ~ especially the gluten free almond crust. What a great idea. We will be having some gluten free guests for Thanksgiving so this will be the perfect addition to our menu.
kseniaprints says
I am sure your GF guests are going to love it!
Michele says
OMG! This was so good! I made it for a trial run as my cousin is gluten free and is coming for Thanksgiving. I'm not gluten free and I loved this pecan pie! So it will be on our Thanksgiving table because everyone can enjoy this dessert!
kseniaprints says
YAY!!! Yes, in my family too all the non-GF eaters enjoy it.
Natalie says
Beautiful pie. Sounds healthy and extra delicious. I love that you used wholesome ingredients here. I can't wait to bake this pie. Yum!
kseniaprints says
It's such a delicious pie to present during the holidays!
Moop Brown says
Pecan pie is always a must for me around this time of year and this recipe for it looks incredibly tasty.
kseniaprints says
I feel the same way. Pecan pie is the best!
Jake says
I've never been great at making pies but this one came out amazing! This gluten free recipe was so easy to make following your instructions. Thanks for the great tips!!
kseniaprints says
This makes me beyond happy! It's one of my favorites.