Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Quebecois tradition with our Quebecois Maple Cream Pie recipe. This indulgent dessert captures the essence of Canada’s rich maple syrup heritage, enveloped in a velvety cream filling and cradled by a buttery, flaky crust. Join us as we explore the nuances of creating a masterpiece that pays homage to the sweet symphony of Quebec’s maple-laden landscapes.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons ice water
For the Maple Cream Filling:
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pie Crust: a. In a food processor, pulse together flour, sugar, and salt. b. Add chilled, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. c. Gradually add ice water, pulsing until the dough just comes together. d. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll Out the Crust: a. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. b. Press the dough into the dish, trimming any excess, and crimp the edges. c. Chill the crust for an additional 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven: a. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Blind Bake the Crust: a. Line the chilled crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. b. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the crust is golden. Set aside to cool.
5. Prepare the Maple Cream Filling: a. In a saucepan, whisk together maple syrup, heavy cream, and milk. Heat over medium until it just starts to simmer. b. In a bowl, whisk together cornstarch, egg yolks, and a pinch of salt. c. Gradually pour the hot maple mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. d. Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking continuously until thickened. e. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Assemble and Chill: a. Pour the maple cream filling into the baked and cooled pie crust. b. Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
Cook Notes and Variations:
Cook Notes:
- Ensure the pie crust is well-chilled before blind baking to prevent shrinkage.
- Whisk the maple cream filling continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth consistency.
Variations:
- Add a hint of warmth with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the maple cream filling.
- Garnish the pie with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour in the crust.
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener in place of granulated sugar.
- Replace cornstarch with a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum.
Low-Carb Version:
- Opt for almond flour in the crust.
- Use a low-carb sweetener in place of granulated sugar.
- Choose a low-carb thickener like arrowroot powder for the filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I use store-bought pie crust? A1: While a homemade crust enhances the flavor, you can use a store-bought crust for convenience.
Q2: How long does the pie need to chill before serving? A2: It’s recommended to refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the filling to set properly.
Q3: Can I freeze Quebecois Maple Cream Pie? A3: Yes, you can freeze the pie without compromising the texture. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q4: Can I use imitation maple syrup? A4: It’s best to use pure maple syrup for an authentic flavor. Imitation syrup may not provide the same depth of taste.
Elevate your dessert experience with the Quebecois Maple Cream Pie—a delightful fusion of buttery crust and luscious maple-infused cream. This recipe not only captures the essence of Quebec’s culinary heritage but also offers a canvas for personalization. As you savor each forkful, relish in the rich tapestry of flavors that unfold, creating a symphony of sweetness on your palate. Share this delectable creation with loved ones, and let the tradition of Quebecois maple magic continue to enchant generations. Bon appétit!
