Delicious Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Recipe

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F or 175°C.
2. To make the crust, combine the gluten-free almond flour, melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir well to combine.
3. Press the crust mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake the pecan crust for 10 to 12 minutes, until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
5. To make the filling of the pecan pie, whisk together the eggs, coconut sugar, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until well combined.
6. Stir in the pecan halves.
7. Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust.
8. Bake the pecan pie for 45 to 50 minutes, until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
9. Remove the pecan pie from the oven and let cool completely before slicing and serving.

Note: You can adjust the sweetness of the pecan pie by adding more or less maple syrup or coconut sugar to the filling.

Savor the rich and nutty flavor of pecans combined with the buttery crust, and enjoy this gluten-free dessert all year round.

Are you trying to switch things up? Then try this sweet beet zoodles recipe from Breeanna Verna!

What Is A Pecan?

Pecans are a type of fruit that grows on trees in North America and Mexico. They are technically classified as tree nuts, with a seed inside a shell and an outer fleshy component. The word “pecan” comes from the Algonquins and means “a nut that requires a stone to crack.” Pecans have a long history in Native American and American culture, with colonists in North America planting pecan trees as early as the 1600s. Pecans are commonly used in recipes ranging from salads to desserts. They are especially popular in Texas and Georgia – known as the pecan capital of the U.S.

A Nutty Secret To A Healthier Body: Pecans

You can enjoy pecans as a snack or add them to your favorite recipes; they add a delightful and nutritious touch to your meals.  

When it comes to health benefits, pecans are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a great addition to your balanced diet. Also, the healthy fats in pecans help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of developing heart disease.

Many may not know, but pecans are rich in antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and lower your risk of developing chronic diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s. 

Moreover, pecans contain essential minerals like magnesium and potassium that regulate blood pressure levels.

Another unique benefit of pecans is that they are a good source of thiamin, a B vitamin essential for energy production and supporting healthy brain function.

How To Properly Store Pecans To Maintain Their Freshness And Flavor?

Properly storing pecans is essential in maintaining their freshness and flavor. Here are some tips:

1. Store in an airtight container: Pecans can easily absorb odors from other foods, so it’s best to store them in an airtight or sealed container to keep them fresh and prevent any off-flavors.
2. Keep in a cool, dry place: Pecans should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as warmth can cause them to become rancid or lose their freshness.
3. Refrigerate or freeze for longer storage: If you plan to keep pecans for an extended period, you can store them in the fridge or freezer. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and label them with the date for easy identification.
4. Protect from moisture: Moisture can cause pecans to become moldy or develop an off-flavor, so make sure you keep them dry and avoid exposure to excess moisture.
5. Avoid crushing or cracking: Pecans are delicate and can easily become crushed or cracked, affecting their quality, so you should handle them carefully and avoid storing heavy items on top of them.

How To Tell If Pecans Are Bad Or Spoiled?

There are a few signs that pecans may have gone bad or spoiled:

1. Off odor: Pecans should have a mild, sweet, nutty scent. If you notice a rancid or sour smell, it may indicate that the pecans are bad.
2. Discoloration: Fresh pecans should have a uniform color, ranging from light brown to dark brown. If you see any mold, dark spots, or discoloration on the pecans, it may indicate spoilage.
3. Taste: Rancid pecans will have a bitter or sour taste instead of the pleasant, nutty flavor of fresh pecans. If you taste any off flavors, it may indicate that the pecans are bad and not good to consume.
4. Texture: Pecans should have a firm and crisp texture. If you notice that the pecans feel soft, mushy, or have a slimy texture, it may indicate spoilage.

If you observe any of these signs, it’s best to discard the pecans.

Pecan Side Effects 

Nuts like pecans can be a part of a healthy diet in moderation, but be mindful of their high-calorie content if you’re trying to lose weight. Pecans are energy-dense, meaning they have a lot of calories per serving, so it’s best to limit consumption to a few servings per day and adjust your diet accordingly.

You need to be aware of potential pecan or tree nut allergies. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like hives and swelling to more severe reactions such as vomiting and loss of consciousness. If you suspect you or your child may have an allergy to pecans, it’s important to get tested by an allergist before consuming them and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any allergic reactions.

It’s also worth noting that pecans can be toxic to some animals, such as dogs and horses. This is because pecans contain juglone, which can harm these animals and cause stomach issues or obstruction if consumed. 

Therefore, it’s best to keep pecans and other nuts out of reach of pets to prevent any potential harm. Always consult with a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has consumed pecans or other nuts and is showing signs of distress.