This Maple Pecan Pie is a sweet treat that combines crunchy pecans with rich maple syrup. It’s a delightful twist on the classic dessert, perfect for any occasion!
When I make this pie, I love seeing the golden syrup bubble up. It’s so satisfying! Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for a cozy dessert that everyone will love! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the pie its unique flavor. If you need an alternative, honey or agave syrup can work, but the taste will differ. Always go for pure maple syrup if possible for the best results!
Pecans: Pecans are essential for that signature crunch. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts can be a substitute, offering a slightly different taste but still delicious. Toasting them lightly brings out their flavor even more.
Brown Sugar: While light brown sugar offers a milder taste, dark brown sugar provides a deeper, richer flavor. You can mix both for a balanced profile. If you need a substitute, try coconut sugar, which gives a similar taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for this recipe, but you can replace it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. It adds a nice flavor as well.
How Do I Make Sure My Pie Filling Sets Perfectly?
Getting the filling just right can be tricky. The goal is to have it set but still a bit jiggly in the center after baking. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Preheat your oven properly—this helps the pie cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; it typically takes about 50 to 60 minutes. A timer can be your best friend here!
- If the edges of the crust start to brown too fast, cover them with a strip of foil.
- Let the pie cool completely after baking—it will firm up more as it cools. This step is key!
With these tips, you’ll have a beautifully set filling that everyone will enjoy. Happy baking!
How to Make Maple Pecan Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- For Serving:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
- Additional chopped pecans for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Maple Pecan Pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 50 to 60 minutes to bake. Don’t forget to allow some time for it to cool completely after baking, as this will help the filling set up nicely. So, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes total, plus cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Now, take your unbaked pie crust and gently place it in a 9-inch pie plate. Get a little creative! Crimp the edges to make it look nice. Set the crust aside for now.
2. Mix the Filling:
In a large bowl, grab your whisk and combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be the delicious filling for your pie!
3. Assemble the Pie:
Take the pecan halves and spread them evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Then, gently pour your maple syrup mixture over the pecans, making sure they’re all coated in that sweet goodness.
4. Bake the Pie:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the pie in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 50 to 60 minutes. You want the filling to be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. If you notice that the edges of the crust are browning too much, just cover them with a little foil to prevent burning.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling time is crucial as it helps the filling firm up a bit more. When you’re ready to serve, cut yourself a slice and enjoy it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can even sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for that extra crunch!
And there you have it—a rich and nutty Maple Pecan Pie perfect for any celebration or simply when you’re in the mood for something sweet. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield delicious results. Just follow the package instructions for pre-baking if needed before filling it with the maple pecan mixture.
How Can I Tell When the Pie is Done?
The pie is done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Keep an eye on it around the 50-minute mark for best results!
Can I Make This Pie Vegan?
Yes, you can! Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a plant-based butter substitute with maple syrup to keep the sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftover Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can enjoy the pie cold or reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!
