How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make this pie in advance?

Yes, the pie can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature or in the fridge until serving.

What if I don’t have Berbere spice?

You can make your own using the provided mix, or substitute with a similar blend like Cajun spice for a different twist.

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, bake the pie, cool it completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?

Yes, walnuts or hazelnuts are good alternatives, though they will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Festive Ethiopian Berbere-Spiced Pecan Pie

Name: Festive Ethiopian Berbere-Spiced Pecan Pie
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Dessert
Ingredients: Ground cayenne pepper; Paprika; Ground ginger; Salt; Ground cardamom; Ground coriander; Ground cinnamon; Ground allspice; Light corn syrup; Packed brown sugar; Butter, melted; Large eggs; Vanilla extract; Berbere spice mix; Pecan halves; Unbaked 9-inch pie shell

A spicy twist on a classic southern dessert.

This delightful pecan pie is infused with the aromatic, spicy flavor of Berbere seasoning, offering a unique blend of sweet and heat that will intrigue any palate.

1 h 45 min
8
Intermediate

Ingredients

Berbere Spice Mix

Ground cayenne pepper

2 tablespoons

Paprika

1 tablespoon

Ground ginger

1 teaspoon

Salt

1 teaspoon

Ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon

Ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon

Ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon

Ground allspice

1/4 teaspoon

Pie Filling

Light corn syrup

1 cup

Packed brown sugar

1 cup

Butter, melted

1/4 cup

Large eggs

Vanilla extract

1 teaspoon

Berbere spice mix

1 tablespoon

Pecan halves

2 cups

Pie Shell

Unbaked 9-inch pie shell

Preparation

Preparing the Berbere Spice Mix

Combine spices

Combine all spices in a small bowl.

Mix flavors

Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Store mix

Store in an airtight container until ready to use.

Assembling the Pie Filling

Whisk ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Add spice mix

Add the Berbere spice mix and stir until well combined.

Fold in pecans

Fold in the pecan halves, ensuring they are evenly coated with the mixture.

Do not overfill the pie shell; leave a slight gap to prevent overflow during baking.

Cooking Process

Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake pie

Bake the pie on the center rack for 50-60 minutes.

Cool pie

Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

Slice pie

Use a hot knife to cut through the pecans smoothly and cleanly.

Plating & Serving