As autumn leaves paint a tapestry of warm hues, it’s time to celebrate the season’s bounty with a dessert that captures the essence of fall. Our Maple Pecan Pie is a symphony of flavors, where the rich sweetness of maple syrup meets the crunchy goodness of pecans in a buttery, flaky crust. This classic dessert not only graces holiday tables but is also a comforting treat for any occasion. Join us in embracing the spirit of fall with this delightful Maple Pecan Pie that promises to enchant your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 and 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead it gently, and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Roll Out the Crust
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish, trim any excess, and crimp the edges. Place it in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Toast the Pecans
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans until fragrant, stirring occasionally. Be cautious not to burn them. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the toasted pecans.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the pecan filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Whipped Cream Bliss: Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence.
- Bourbon Twist: Add a splash of bourbon to the filling for a sophisticated flavor boost.
- Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the crust before pouring in the filling for a chocolatey surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust?
A: Yes, you can use a pre-made pie crust to save time. Ensure it’s thawed if frozen, and follow the package instructions for pre-baking if necessary.
Q: How do I prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy?
A: To prevent a soggy crust, you can blind bake it before adding the filling. Simply line the crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights or dried beans, and bake for about 15 minutes. Remove the weights and continue baking until lightly golden.
Q: Can I use pecan halves or pieces?
A: Either pecan halves or pieces can be used based on your preference. Using a combination can add interesting texture to the pie.
Q: Can I make this pie in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Option:
For the crust, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a keto-friendly flour alternative. Use a low-carb sweetener in place of sugar. Adjust the filling by using a sugar-free maple syrup substitute and a keto-friendly brown sugar alternative.
Low-Carb Version:
Opt for a low-carb baking mix for the crust and a sugar substitute for the sugar in both the crust and filling. Ensure the maple syrup used is sugar-free or has a low sugar content.
In conclusion, our Maple Pecan Pie is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, bringing together the warmth of maple and the nutty goodness of pecans. Whether enjoyed by the fireside or as the grand finale to a festive feast, this pie is a testament to the simple joys of seasonal baking. So, embrace the crisp air, gather around with loved ones, and savor each forkful of this delightful Maple Pecan Pie. Let the flavors of fall fill your home with sweetness and the spirit of celebration!
