If you’re a fan of both traditional pecan pie and the remarkable flavors of maple syrup, this recipe is your culinary match made in heaven. The delightful combination of maple and pecans takes this classic dessert to new heights, making it the perfect treat for all occasions. In the next few sections, we’ll guide you through creating this delicious pie step-by-step, sharing some personal insights and handy tips along the way.

Back when I was a child, my grandmother would always prepare a pecan pie for Sunday family dinners. The sweet, nutty aroma that filled the kitchen is a memory I cherish dearly. Recently, I decided to add a twist to her traditional recipe by incorporating maple syrup, an idea inspired by our family’s trip to a maple farm. The result was an even richer pie, evoking warmth and memories with every bite. It soon became a family favorite, and I hope it brings just as much joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it’s both simple to make and incredibly flavorful. The maple syrup elevates the natural sweetness, providing a depth that regular sugar can’t match. Additionally, the toasted pecans offer a delightful crunch, perfectly balancing the gooey filling. Best of all, this pie serves as a fantastic dessert whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or enjoying a quiet evening at home.

Ingredients Notes

When selecting ingredients, quality makes a difference. Opt for pure maple syrup for the best flavor—avoid artificial substitutes. Fresh pecans are a must, and if you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding a handful of walnuts for texture contrast. Don’t forget the pie crust; homemade or store-bought will both work fine, but a buttery, flaky crust is ideal.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim, fold, and decorate the edges as desired.

Step 2

In a saucepan, combine the maple syrup, sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3

In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly. Gradually add the syrup mixture while continuously stirring to avoid cooking the eggs.

Step 4

Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then fold in the pecans until fully coated. Pour the filling into the prepared pie shell.

Step 5

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. Let the pie cool completely before serving.

Storage Options

Leftover pie should be refrigerated and enjoyed within 4 days. For long-term storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe can easily be adapted for dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust. Those looking to lower sugar content can replace half the sugar with a sweetener like stevia. To add a surprise twist, try incorporating a bit of dark chocolate into the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, this pie is perfect for preparing ahead of an event. Bake it the day before and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, and you’ll find it slices more cleanly after fully chilling.

What can I serve with this pie? A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the pie’s flavors wonderfully. For a cozy winter dessert, try serving it with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce.

How do I know when the pie is done? The pie is done when the center is set, though it will still have a slight jiggle. It should be golden brown on top. If the top browns too quickly during baking, cover it lightly with foil to prevent over-browning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Maple Pecan Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely make this pie ahead of time! In fact, it’s recommended. Baking it the day before allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer taste. Store the cooled pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This also helps the filling set completely, making it easier to slice and serve.

What are some substitutions I can make in the Maple Pecan Pie recipe?

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust. To reduce the sugar content, replace up to half of the sugar with a sweetener like stevia, using a 1:1 ratio for replacement. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts can be substituted in equal measure (1 cup walnuts for 1 cup pecans) for a slightly different, but equally delicious, nutty flavor.

How do I know when the Maple Pecan Pie is perfectly baked?

The pie is done when the edges of the filling are set and the center has a slight jiggle. The top should be a beautiful golden brown color. An internal temperature of around 200°F (93°C) indicates doneness. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.

Can I easily double the Maple Pecan Pie recipe for a larger gathering?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but you’ll need to bake it in two separate 9-inch pie plates. Doubling the filling and baking it in one deep-dish pie plate may result in an unevenly cooked pie. The baking time should remain roughly the same, but check for doneness about 5 minutes earlier. Ensure you have enough pie crust to accommodate both pies.

What are the nutritional benefits of the Maple Pecan Pie?

While a dessert, this pie offers some nutritional benefits. Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to heart health. Maple syrup, while still a sugar, contains some minerals like manganese and zinc. However, it’s important to enjoy this pie in moderation as part of a balanced diet due to its high sugar and fat content.

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Maple Pecan Pie Recipe: A Sweet Fusion of Flavors

This rich, delicious Maple Pecan Pie is perfect for any occasion, featuring a blend of sweet maple syrup and crunchy pecans.

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Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 1

Total Time: 1 20

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the pecans in the pie crust and spread them evenly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Pour the maple syrup mixture over the pecans in the pie crust.
Bake for 60 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is a deep golden brown.
Allow to cool completely before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!

Maple Pecan Pie Recipe: A Sweet Fusion of Flavors

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients Notes