The Maple Pecan Pie Everyone Begs For During the Holidays

 

The holidays are just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a decadent dessert that everyone will love? This Maple Pecan Pie is the perfect centerpiece for your festive gatherings. With its rich, nutty flavor and perfectly sweet maple filling, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Inspired by classic American baking, this pie brings warmth and joy to every bite. Let’s create a holiday masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Maple Pecan Pie

This Maple Pecan Pie isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly satisfying to make. Here’s why you’ll adore this recipe:

• Effortless prep with clear, easy-to-follow instructions.
• The aroma of maple and pecans fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors.
• Uses simple ingredients you can easily find.
• A guaranteed hit at any holiday gathering.
• Less fussy than other complicated desserts.
• Rekindles warm, nostalgic memories of festive celebrations.
• It’s simply irresistible!

Ingredients Needed for Maple Pecan Pie

Gather your ingredients to create this holiday favorite! The recipe is divided into two parts: the crust and the filling. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups (155g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (57g) vegetable shortening, cold and cubed
• 1/4 – 1/2 cup (60-120ml) ice water

Selection Tip: Ensure your butter and shortening are very cold for a flaky crust.

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (320g) maple syrup
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups (150g) pecan halves

Sourcing Tip: Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor. Find fresh pecans at your local grocery store or farmers market.

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Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes baking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• • Large bowl: For mixing the crust ingredients.
  • Whisk: To blend the filling components smoothly.
  • Pastry blender or fingers: To cut in the butter and shortening.

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• Plastic wrap: To chill the dough.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the pie crust.
• 9-inch pie plate: The perfect size for your pie.
• Medium bowl: To prepare the filling.
• Wire rack: For cooling the baked pie.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Medium

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to bake the perfect Maple Pecan Pie. Let’s break it down:

Making the Crust:

1. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures even distribution.
2. Cut in Fats: Cut in the cold butter and shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for a flaky crust.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough crust.
4. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax.
5. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
6. Transfer to Pie Plate: Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate, trim the edges, and crimp decoratively.
7. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preparing the Filling:

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract.
2. Add Eggs: Add the eggs and whisk until well combined.
3. Incorporate Pecans: Stir in the pecan halves.
4. Pour into Crust: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
5. Bake the Pie: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
6. Cool Completely: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.

CHECK OUT: Cheesy Garlic Rolls – Perfect to make with this delicious pie for the holidays.

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Maple Pecan Pie turns out perfectly every time:

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and shortening are essential for a flaky pie crust.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough develops gluten, resulting in a tough crust. Mix until just combined.
• Use High-Quality Maple Syrup: The flavor of the maple syrup will greatly impact the overall taste of the pie, so choose a good one.
• Protect the Crust: If the crust starts browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil or use a pie shield.
• Cool Completely: Patience is key! Let the pie cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to customize your Maple Pecan Pie? Here are a few ideas:

• • Different Nuts: Try using walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts instead of pecans.
  • Bourbon: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Chocolate: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the pecans before baking for a chocolatey twist.

• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the filling for extra warmth.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Maple Pecan Pie

Enhance your Maple Pecan Pie experience with these serving suggestions:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the pie’s sweetness.
• Whipped Cream: Freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage to balance the richness.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pie for an extra layer of indulgence.

Health Benefits

While Maple Pecan Pie is a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

• Pecans: Provide healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Maple Syrup: Contains minerals like manganese and zinc.
• Eggs: A good source of protein.

Storage & Reheating

Keep your Maple Pecan Pie fresh with these storage tips:

• Storage: Store the pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until warm.
• Freezing: Freeze the entire pie or individual slices, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, you can! This will save you time. Just make sure to blind-bake it before adding the filling.

How do I prevent the crust from burning?

Cover the edges of the crust with foil or use a pie shield during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it’s best to make it a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set.

What if my filling is too runny?

Make sure to bake the pie until the filling is set. If it’s still runny, you can try baking it for a few more minutes or letting it cool completely.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or turbinado sugar, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 55g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Total Sugars: 35g
• Protein: 5g

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delightful treats? Check out these other amazing recipes!

• Apple Bread – The Perfect Fall Treat – Enjoy this cozy and comforting loaf for a delightful autumn snack.
• Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins – These muffins are the perfect balance of pumpkin spice and creamy sweetness.
• Easy Maple Pecan Shortbread Cookies – For another delightful maple pecan treat, try these cookies!

Conclusion

This Maple Pecan Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece of holiday joy. Fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, it’s the perfect way to celebrate with loved ones. Whip it up this holiday season and let the sweet, nutty aroma fill your home. Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

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