Gluten-Free Pecan Nut Pie Crust Recipe (2024)

Nut-based pie crusts are becoming more popular as people with diet restrictions and health conditions look to substitute sugar and glutenwhile maintaining the great taste and texture of their favorite desserts. This pecan nut pie crust is theperfect foundation for the Thanksgiving staple,pumpkin pie.

A high intake of tree nuts, including pecans, is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and all-cause mortality. This is due to their poly and mono-unsaturated fatty acids, micronutrients, fiber, and phytochemicals.

This recipe can be used as a substitute for any traditional flour-based pie crust, withother custard or pudding fillings like sweet potato pie, key lime pie, or lemon buttermilk pie. Although it uses a few dates for sweetness, this crust is still lower in carbs than the traditional flour-based crusts.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pecan pieces
• 2 tbsp butter (salted, melted)
• 6 dates (softened andfinely chopped)

1. Placepecans pieces into a food processor (you can use a blender, but be careful not to blend them down too small).

2. Pulse the processor until the largest pieces are as big as lentils or split peas.

3. Add the melted butter and dates and blend until mixed evenly.

4. Transfer the mixture to a 9-inch pie pan, and pressthe mixture with your fingers to cover the bottom and sides of the pan. The consistency should allow for you to mold the crust to the pie pan evenly.

5. Pour in your favorite pie filling and bake according to the pie recipe instructions.

6. Alternatively, if you need a pre-baked bottom crust, heat the oven to 350 F and bake for 10 minutes until the crust begins to brown. After 8 minutes, check every minute or so, to ensure the crust doesn't overcook.

Variations and Substitutions

Add spices to this nut-based pie crust that complements the pie's filling to add a layer of flavor your friends and family may not expect. Only use a small amount—1/2 to 1 teaspoon is sufficient and should be added first to the liquid ingredient in the pie crust (in this case, the melted butter) before it's mixed with the remaining ingredients.

Simple spices to consider adding to custard pies include 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin spice and 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water. An apple pie would be delightful with 1 teaspoon ofvanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of anise. 1 teaspoon of dried thyme leaves would bring out the citrusy taste in a lemon meringue pie and give off an inviting aroma as well.

Cooking and Serving Tips

• Nuts will stay freshest and last longer when stored in the freezer. Make sure they are in an airtight container. You can place frozen pecan nuts directly into the food processor.

By Team Verywell Fit
At Verywell Fit, we are dedicated to empowering you with the best answers to your most pressing questions, from healthy eating to exercise and everything in between.