Hey y’all! I ended up taking a week to myself. Had a lot of craziness with classes but I am back this week! Hope y’all had a spooktacular Halloween night! I spent my night with my sister and her family taking the kiddos out trick or treating. Wasn’t sure I was going to dress up with funds being tight after bills, but her and I went to Walmart, and I found a decent priced wolf costume. I absolutely LOVE Wolves! It came with a simple poncho with a wolf on it, a fur collar, and a headband with wolf ears. I paired it with some black jeans and a clip-on wolf tail that I had bought from the Renaissance fair a couple years back and it was so cute!
The evening was a blast, with the neighborhood transformed into a Halloween wonderland. Kids in costumes roamed the streets, and houses competed for the spookiest decor. Some daring adults brandished noisy, fake chainsaws, sending a mix of shrieks and giggles through the air. As the night drew to a close, our feet ached from the fashionable yet impractical choice of heels, but it was worth it seeing the kids haul home enough candy to keep dentists busy for months!
November has finally arrived, and with it comes the warmth of Thanksgiving—that delightful time of year when we gather around the table, ready to embrace culinary masterpieces and embrace our loved ones (and maybe a little bit of madness that comes with it). Picture it: the whole family arguing over the best way to cook the turkey while you sneak in a bite of pumpkin pie before dessert—a true Thanksgiving accomplishment. However, the essence of Thanksgiving is something that should resonate throughout the year, not just on a specific date. It is a reminder to cherish and be grateful for our blessings every day, for life’s constant changes mean nothing is guaranteed. Waiting for a holiday to express gratitude might mean missing the chance to do so. Don’t forget to tell the people close to you what they mean to you
Now then, in the spirit of the holiday coming up, my next few posts are going to be some of my favorite Thanksgiving dishes! Starting with *drumroll please*
Bourbon Pecan Pie!
As if the greasy grand turkey and mashed potato mountains weren’t enough, allow me to guide you through the world of delightful desserts, particularly the pièce de résistance: bourbon pecan pie. It’s sweet, it’s nutty, and it has that sneaky little kick of bourbon that might have your relatives singing karaoke or telling embarrassing stories about you from your childhood (just kidding!).
This is a dish that my mother makes every year for Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it is one of my absolute favorites. The rich, comforting aroma fills the house, creating a warm atmosphere that reminds me of childhood memories gathered around the dinner table. Even better is that the whole family can enjoy it, even the littles, since the alcohol gets cooked out but leaves the flavor! Every bite is a delightful blend of spices and ingredients, making it not just a meal, but a cherished tradition that brings us all together. The laughter and conversation that accompany this dish are just as important as the food itself, making each holiday truly special.
So, let’s break it down, step by step, so you can snag all the credit this Thanksgiving.
Now, before we dive into the world of pecan delights, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to craft this delicious wonder:
1. **Pie Crust**: Store-bought is fine if you’re feeling lazy (we won’t judge), or impress everyone with your homemade version.
2. **Pecans**: About two cups of these nutty gems, chopped but still chunky enough to remind you what you’re eating.
3. **Sugar**: A cup of brown sugar for that distinct caramel flavor.
4. **Corn syrup**: Light or dark, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling—dark lends a richer flavor. A cup should do.
5. **Butter**: Can’t have pie without this golden goodness—half a cup, melted.
6. **Eggs**: Three large eggs to bring it all together.
7. **Vanilla extract**: A couple of teaspoons to elevate the flavor.
8. **Bourbon**: Of course! A quarter cup of good bourbon to make the pie a little sassy.
Now for the fun part: the process! Preheat that oven of yours to a toasty 350°F (or 175°C for the metric enthusiasts out there). This will ensure your masterpiece bakes perfectly, creating a beautifully golden crust that will have everyone at the table drooling in anticipation.
Step one: Place your pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. If you’re using a frozen crust, let it thaw for a few minutes while you daydream about how much your family will love you for making this delightful dessert. A little extra care and attention during this phase make all the difference.
Next, in a large bowl, mix together the sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and bourbon. This combination creates your sweet, luscious filling that will serve as the heart of your pie. You can do this with a whisk or a mixer—no need to give your arm the workout it doesn’t deserve. Blend everything together until it’s smooth and silky like your aunt’s questionable boyfriend (seriously, we all know that’s a thing). The key here is achieving that perfect blend to avoid any granular texture when you bite into your pie.
Now, stir in those pecans. You want to be generous; we’re making Pecan Pie here, not Pecan-Only-For-Decoration Pie. The pecans should be chopped just enough to release their nutty flavor while still being big enough to bite into. Pour the glorious mixture into your lovely crust, making sure to fill it to the brim. Don’t skimp on any of that tasty filling—scrape that bowl clean! Every last drop counts, and trust me, your pie will thank you for it.
Pop your pie into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes. This is where the magic happens: the sweet aroma will envelop your home like a warm hug, enticing people from all corners of the house. As the pie bakes, you might start daydreaming about the gatherings ahead, how everyone will gather round to devour this delectable creation, and whether you should invite the neighbors over to share in the pecan glory.
After an hour, check if it’s done. The filling should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Allow it to cool for a bit—this will help it firm up. Maybe grab a slice of leftover turkey to balance out the sweetness while you wait; after all, you have to ensure your pie can stand proud among the savory main courses! The cooling process will also contribute to the flavors mingling beautifully, making each bite an experience.
Once cooled, slice your pie with the precision of a culinary surgeon. This might involve using a sturdy knife for a clean cut—after all, no one wants a messy slice at the Thanksgiving table! Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on each slice, perhaps even adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel on top for that extra touch of indulgence. Watch your family conquer that pie like it’s at the top of their holiday wishlist, chattering about how delicious it is and vying for a second piece.
So, there you have it! A fantastic bourbon pecan pie that is sure to enhance your Thanksgiving spread. Just imagine the toasts, the laughter, and the slightly tipsy storytelling that will ensue—all thanks to your fabulous skills in the kitchen. Happy Thanksgiving, and may your pie be the talk of the table! 🥧💫
What’s your must-have Thanksgiving dessert? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your favorite holiday treats and as always, happy baking!