Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your pie bakes evenly and reaches the right consistency.

Prepare the Pie Crust:

• If using a store-bought crust, roll it out according to package instructions and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges, leaving about 1/2 inch.
• If making a homemade crust, prepare your favorite recipe. Once the dough is ready, roll it out and place it in the pie pan, crimping the edges for a decorative touch.

Mix the Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of corn syrup (light or dark) with 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
• Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth and well combined. This mixture should be thick and syrupy.
• Add in the 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air and gives the pie a light texture.
• Pour in the 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps.

Add Pecans:

• Gently fold in 2 cups of pecan halves, making sure they are evenly coated with the filling mixture. This step adds the signature crunch and nutty flavor to your pie.

Fill the Pie Crust:

• Carefully pour the pecan mixture into the prepared pie crust. Use a spatula to spread the pecans evenly across the filling. Avoid overfilling, as the mixture may bubble over while baking.

Bake:

• Place the pie in the preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set. The edges of the pie should be firm, while the center may still have a slight jiggle—this will firm up as it cools.
• Keep an eye on the crust. If the edges begin to brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Cool:

• Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and set it on a wire rack to cool. Allow it to cool for at least 2 hours at room temperature. This cooling time is essential, as it helps the filling set completely, making it easier to slice.

Serve:

• After cooling, slice the pecan pie into 8 equal pieces using a sharp knife. Serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Enjoy your delicious homemade pecan pie, sharing it with family and friends!