This Maple Pecan Pie is a sweet and nutty treat, perfect for any gathering! With crispy pecans and a gooey maple filling, it’s a dessert that makes everyone smile.
Making this pie is a breeze! I love it fresh out of the oven, served warm with a scoop of ice cream. Trust me, your friends will be asking for seconds (or thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or make a homemade one. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pie crust options available at many grocery stores.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is the star here. If you need a substitute, you can try honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will change slightly. Always opt for grade A for a sweeter, lighter flavor.
Pecans: Pecans give this pie its delightful crunch. If you’re out of pecans, walnuts can work in a pinch. Just chop them roughly to mimic the pecan texture.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is preferred for its sweetness and moisture. You could use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor, but it might make the pie a bit darker. Coconut sugar is also an option for a slightly different taste.
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Pie Filling?
The filling is key to a great maple pecan pie! To keep it smooth and creamy, follow these steps:
- Mix the ingredients in a large bowl until combined and smooth. Avoid overmixing, which can add unnecessary air.
- Make sure to melt the butter and let it cool slightly before adding it to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Pour the filling into the pie crust gently to keep your crust intact. Be careful not to overfill, as it can spill during baking.
Lastly, remember to let the pie cool completely after baking. This helps the filling set properly, resulting in a slice that holds its shape! Enjoy your delicious creation!
Maple Pecan Pie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup pure maple syrup (preferably grade A)
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (plus extra for topping if desired)
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 50 to 60 minutes to bake. You’ll want to allow some time for cooling before serving, so plan on about 1 hour for cooling as well. Total time: around 2 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, place your pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan and crimp the edges as you like. Pop the crust in the refrigerator to chill while you work on the filling. Chilling helps to keep the crust flaky!
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is combined and smooth. This is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s mixed well!
3. Add Pecans:
Gently stir in the pecan halves into your filling mixture. You want those delicious nuts to be spread throughout for a lovely texture.
4. Fill the Crust:
Carefully pour your filling into the chilled pie crust. Spread the pecans out evenly across the top—this will make it look beautiful when it bakes!
5. Bake the Pie:
Put the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges of the crust; if they start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield halfway through baking. You want the filling to be bubbly and slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done.
6. Cool and Set:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling time helps the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice later on.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s cooled, slice your delicious maple pecan pie. For a treat, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, creating a delightful warm-cold contrast! Enjoy every bite!
Enjoy this delightful Maple Pecan Pie, filled with rich flavors and a perfectly crunchy texture. Perfect for gatherings or simply a sweet dessert at home!
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought pie crust saves time and still yields a delicious pie. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for pre-baking if required.
How Do I Know When the Pie Is Done Baking?
The pie is done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You can also check for bubbling around the edges, which indicates it’s cooked through. If you’re unsure, you can insert a knife into the filling, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance! Once it’s completely cooled, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it slightly in the oven before serving for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Pie?
To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
