Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Today marks National Pecan Day, a celebration that not only honors the nut itself but also the agricultural efforts that support its production. Particularly, here in Baldwin County, pecan cultivation has a storied history and continues to be a significant part of the local agricultural landscape.

According to the Alabama Pecan Growers Association, the pecan industry began in the early 1900s in Baldwin County and cultivation grew significantly by the 1940s. Today, despite setbacks from hurricanes such as Frederic, Ivan, and Sally, which have impacted the number of pecan trees, the county remains one of the main areas for pecan production in Alabama. Alabama, among 15 other states, is a notable producer of this nut, with a substantial number of acres dedicated to pecan orchards.

While specific annual production numbers for Baldwin County alone are not readily available, Alabama's total pecan production offers some context. The state has approximately 22,266 acres planted with pecans, and during its peak years, Alabama growers produced about 49 million pounds of pecans between 2007 and 2017. Despite the discontinuation of precise pecan estimates by county in Alabama after 2019, it's clear that Baldwin County plays a crucial role in the state's overall pecan production.

National Pecan Day serves as an excellent reminder of the economic and cultural significance of pecan farming in regions like Baldwin County, where generations of families like the Bertollas have cultivated this nut for nearly a century. Celebrating this day acknowledges not only the delicious produce but also the resilience and dedication of the farmers who nurture these orchards year after year.

Pecan pie, a classic American dessert, is often synonymous with Southern hospitality and festive gatherings. Known for its rich, buttery filling and abundance of pecans, this pie transforms simple ingredients into a decadent treat. The toasted nuts complement the smooth, caramel-like filling, creating a perfect balance of texture and flavor. This dessert is particularly beloved during the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, but its timeless appeal makes it a favorite year-round.

Here are a couple of pecan pie recipes to try:

Traditional Pecan Pie:

• Ingredients: 1 cup corn syrup, 3 eggs, 1 cup sugar, 2 tbsp butter, melted, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 1/2 cups pecans, 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell.
• Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, eggs, sugar, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in pecans. Pour the mixture into the pie shell. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until the filling is set. Let cool before serving.

Chocolate Pecan Pie:

• Ingredients: 1 cup light-brown sugar, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/2 cup butter, 2 eggs, 1 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup chopped pecans, 3/4 cup chocolate chips, 1 unbaked 9-inch pie shell.
• Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cream together the butter and sugars in a bowl. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the flour, milk, and vanilla. Add the pecans and chocolate chips. Spread the mixture into the pie shell. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until set. Allow to cool before slicing.