Every Sunday, a special tradition unfolds in our kitchen with the creation of Pecan Pie Sundaes. This delightful dessert has a way of turning ordinary family gatherings into memorable occasions filled with laughter and sweet indulgence. I remember the first time I made this treat; it was a chilly fall evening, and the aroma of warm caramel filled the air, inviting everyone to the table. Each layer of this dessert tells a story—from the creamy ice cream that melts ever so slightly into the warm caramel sauce, to the crunchy pecans adding that perfect texture. It’s a dessert that brings people together, creating moments of joy and satisfaction that linger long after the last bite. If you’ve ever craved something rich and comforting, let me assure you, Pecan Pie Sundaes is the answer. This is not just dessert; it’s an experience!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Whisk

What Makes This Pecan Pie Sundaes Special

Deliciously Decadent

There’s something about Pecan Pie Sundaes that whispers indulgence. The creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect beginning, rich and smooth, creating a luscious base. Then, we add the sweet caramel sauce, which brings warmth and depth to each spoonful. It’s a match made in dessert heaven.

Perfect for Gatherings

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just winding down on a Sunday night, Pecan Pie Sundaes fit seamlessly into any occasion. They’re an excellent choice for gatherings, as they’re easy to serve and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy the company of your loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

Texture Play

Texture is essential in any great dessert, and that’s where the crunchy pecans come into play. They provide a delightful contrast against the soft ice cream and velvety caramel, making each bite a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the little things that elevate this dessert and keep you coming back for more.

A Family Tradition

As the years go by, Pecan Pie Sundaes have become a cherished family tradition in my house. Every fall, we gather around to create this masterpiece, reminding us of the joy of being together. It’s a nostalgic experience that we eagerly anticipate each year, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Customizable Delight

One of the best parts about Pecan Pie Sundaes is their versatility. You can easily tailor them to suit your family’s taste. Want to add a drizzle of chocolate? Go for it! Prefer more nuts? The choice is yours. This flexibility makes it a fun dessert to make and enjoy.

Easy to Prepare

With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making Pecan Pie Sundaes is something you can whip up even on a busy weeknight. You won’t need to stress about complicated techniques; just follow along, and you’ll be rewarded with a fabulous dessert in no time.

Ingredients Required for Pecan Pie Sundaes

The ingredients for Pecan Pie Sundaes come together beautifully to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Each element plays a crucial role in building the dessert’s signature taste. The rich butter and sugar create a luxurious caramel sauce, while the vanilla ice cream provides a creamy counterpoint, making every bite a delightful experience.

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided: Used in the caramel sauce and to sprinkle on the pastry, this ingredient provides sweetness throughout the dish.
3/4 stick (6 tablespoons) butter, plus 1 tablespoon butter, melted, divided: Adds richness to the caramel and helps with the pastry’s crispness.
2 tablespoons molasses: This gives a deep, rich flavor to the caramel, enhancing its complexity.
1/2 cup heavy cream: For a silky texture in the caramel sauce, enhancing its creaminess.
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, elevating the overall flavor profile.
1 9-inch refrigerated pie crust: The base for our sundae, providing a flaky contrast to the soft ingredients.
1 1/2 quarts premium vanilla ice cream: The star of the show, its creaminess balances the richness of the caramel.
1 bag (5 oz) glazed pecans, coarsely chopped: Adds crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the sweet elements.

How to Make Pecan Pie Sundaes

Creating Pecan Pie Sundaes is a delightful journey, and each step brings you closer to that perfect dessert. Let’s dive into the process and see how these layers of flavors come together. With a little patience and love, you’ll soon be serving up this amazing treat!

To begin, make the caramel sauce. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar with 1/4 cup water. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat while whisking constantly. This helps the sugar dissolve evenly and prevents any crystallization. When the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and stop whisking. You want to allow it to boil undisturbed until it turns a deep golden brown, which should take around 10 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Once it reaches that beautiful color, remove the pan from heat. Immediately whisk in 6 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons molasses, allowing the butter to melt fully. Finally, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream until incorporated. Set the caramel aside to cool to room temperature.
Next, adjust your oven rack to the lower-middle position and preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, line a baking sheet with a Silpat baking mat or parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon to make a cinnamon sugar mixture. Open your 9-inch refrigerated pie crust and lay it out onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush it with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This will give the crust a sweet, spiced flavor.
Using a pizza wheel or a sharp knife, cut the pie dough into 12 triangles. As you cut, gently pull the triangles apart to create a little space between them. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
Bake the triangles in the preheated oven until they are golden brown, which should take around 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary. The smell will be divine as they bake!
Once the pastry is baked, it’s time to assemble your Pecan Pie Sundaes. Start by scooping 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream into each serving goblet. This generous scoop should sit atop the warm caramel sauce.
Next, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of the previously made caramel sauce over the ice cream for that luscious coating.
Sprinkle a scant 2 tablespoons of coarsely chopped glazed pecans over the top to add that delightful crunch. It’s important to be generous here; the pecans are essential for that classic flavor.
Finally, add a wedge of the crispy pastry triangle on top of your sundae for a charming presentation. Serve these amazing Pecan Pie Sundaes immediately while everything is warm and cold.

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Matters: Ensure your caramel sauce is cooled to room temperature before serving. This prevents the ice cream from melting too quickly.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch. Stale nuts can ruin the texture of your sundae.
Look for Color: Watch the caramel closely as it cooks. The golden brown color indicates it’s ready to be removed from heat.
Serving Size: Don’t be afraid to adjust the serving sizes based on your guests. A generous scoop of ice cream makes for an impressive dessert!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To elevate your Pecan Pie Sundaes, here are some pro tips that can enhance the experience. Whether you want to try something new or ensure your dish is perfect, these suggestions will help!

Storage: Store any leftover caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s great drizzled over pancakes or waffles, too!
Freezing: You can freeze the remaining pie crust triangles for up to three months. Simply thaw them before baking for a quick dessert fix.
Serving Variety: Experiment with different ice cream flavors, such as pecan praline or caramel swirl, to give your sundae a unique twist.
Garnish Ideas: Consider adding fresh fruits like banana slices or cherries on top for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Make it a Milkshake: Blend the sundae ingredients together with some milk to create an indulgent milkshake version!

Serving This Pecan Pie Sundaes

When it comes to serving Pecan Pie Sundaes, there are countless ways to make it special. Here are some delightful ideas:

Perfect for Fall Gatherings: These sundaes are a fantastic treat for any fall gathering, especially around Thanksgiving or family reunions.
Enjoy as Dessert: They make a spectacular finish to any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration.
Pair with Coffee: Serve these sundaes alongside a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea for an indulgent afternoon treat.
Kids’ Parties: They’re also a hit at kids’ parties—let the little ones help assemble their own sundaes for extra fun!
Storage Tips: Any leftover components can be stored separately in the fridge for a few days. Prepare the sundae fresh for the best texture.
Seasonal Pairings: In fall, consider serving them with a slice of pumpkin pie for a delightful dessert duo.

FAQ

Pecan Pie Sundaes are a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with ice cream. This indulgent treat typically features a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with warm caramel sauce, chopped pecans, and crispy pastry, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Absolutely! The caramel sauce for Pecan Pie Sundaes can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving to restore its smooth consistency. This makes it easy to assemble the dessert quickly when you’re ready to enjoy it.

While vanilla is the classic choice for Pecan Pie Sundaes, you can certainly mix things up with other flavors! Consider caramel, pecan praline, or even chocolate for a rich twist. Each flavor adds its own unique touch, enhancing the overall experience of this delicious dessert.

To store any leftovers from your Pecan Pie Sundaes, keep the components separate. The ice cream will need to be returned to the freezer, while the caramel sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The pastry triangles can also be kept in a sealed container for a few days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Sundaes are not only a sweet indulgence but a way to create cherished memories with family and friends. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that can brighten any gathering. I encourage you to bring this delightful dessert to your table; trust me, it’ll be a hit! You’ll find yourself craving it long after the last spoonful has been enjoyed.