Pecan Pie

If using a store-bought pie dough: If using a refrigerated dough, unroll it and fit it into a 9-inch by 1½-inch (23-cm by 3.75-cm) deep-dish pie pan. Press the dough gently into the pan so it fits snugly without stretching. Trim the edges to extend about ½ inch (1.25 cm) beyond the pan’s lip. Crimp the edges with a fork or flute them with your fingers for a decorative finish. Refrigerate until ready to fill, up to 1 day ahead. If using a frozen crust in an aluminum pan, keep frozen until you’re ready to fill it.If using a homemade pie crust dough: Roll the dough into a 12 to 13-inch (30 to 33-cm) circle on a lightly floured surface. Carefully lift the dough by draping it over your rolling pin, then transfer it to the pie pan. Gently press it into the pan, ensuring it fits snugly without stretching. Trim the edges to extend about ½ inch (1.25 cm) beyond the pan’s lip. Crimp the edges with a fork or flute them with your fingers for a decorative finish. Refrigerate until ready to fill, up to 1 day ahead.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and set an oven rack in the lower third position. Place a baking sheet on this rack to preheat as well. (This acts like a pizza stone, providing a hot surface to help the bottom crust of the pie crisp up effectively.)

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, corn syrup, eggs, bourbon (if using), vanilla, and salt. Whisk until completely smooth.

Sprinkle the coarsely chopped pecans in the chilled pie crust, then pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. If you've set aside a few whole pecan halves, arrange them on top in a decorative pattern, pressing them slightly into the filling before letting them rise back up to ensure they're coated. Brush the edges of the pie crust with the beaten egg, milk, or cream. Place the pie on the preheated baking sheet in the oven. Bake until set and golden, 50 to 55 minutes. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet on a wire rack, about 4 hours. Serve at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.