Pet Milk Pecan Pie

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 50 m Total: 1 h 5 m Beginner
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Pet Milk Pecan Pie
Evaporated Milk a staple that many Cajun mothers raised their babies on. Ceux-là étaient les jours mes enfants! This traditional pecan pie uses Pet evaporated milk, dark corn syrup, and pecans for a rich, nostalgic Southern dessert.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup dark corn syrup
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup broken pecan, walnut or filberts pieces
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix in a 1 1/2 quart bowl the flour, sugar, and salt. Add and mix well the corn syrup. Beat in with a fork, one at a time the 2 eggs.
  2. Mix in the evaporated milk, nuts and vanilla.
  3. Pour into a 9-inch pie pan lined with unbaked pastry.
  4. Bake near the center of a 375 degree oven (high moderate) about 50 minutes or until firm. Cool before serving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my pecan pie filling runny?

A: The pie needs the full 50 minutes to set properly. It should still jiggle slightly in the center when you remove it from the oven but will firm up as it cools completely. Don't cut into it while warm or the filling won't hold its shape.

Q: Can I use fresh milk instead of evaporated milk?

A: Evaporated milk has a thicker, creamier consistency and concentrated flavor that's key to this recipe's texture. Fresh milk will result in a thinner, less rich filling that may not set properly.

Tips and Techniques

The pie is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—it will continue to set as it cools. Always cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • evaporated milk: half-and-half cream
  • dark corn syrup: light corn syrup
  • pecans: walnuts or filberts (hazelnuts)

Equipment Needed

  • 9-inch pie pan
  • 1 1/2 quart mixing bowl
  • Fork or whisk

Historical Context

Pet Milk brand evaporated milk was such a staple in Southern kitchens that “Pet Milk” became synonymous with evaporated milk itself, much like Kleenex for tissues. The Cajun phrase “Ceux-là étaient les jours mes enfants” means “Those were the days, my children.”