This Maple Pecan Pie is a tasty treat with a sweet, sticky maple filling and crunchy pecans on top. It’s perfect for holidays or a cozy family gathering!
Whenever I bake this pie, the kitchen smells like magic! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream—seriously, it’s a slice of happiness! 🍰✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: You can use a homemade or store-bought pie crust. I often go for a store-bought version for convenience, but a homemade crust adds a personal touch!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is essential for that delicious flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use light corn syrup as a substitute, but it won’t have that distinctive maple taste.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives the pie some depth. If you need a substitute, you can mix granulated sugar with a little molasses (1 tablespoon molasses for every cup of sugar) to mimic brown sugar.
Pecans: The star of the pie! You could use walnuts instead if needed, but that will change the flavor profile a bit. Always toast the nuts beforehand to enhance their flavor!
How Do You Get the Perfect Filling Texture?
Getting the filling just right is key for a great Maple Pecan Pie. Here’s how:
- Mix ingredients until smooth, but don’t overdo it. Too much whisking can introduce air and change the pie’s texture.
- When adding pecans, try to spread them evenly in the pie crust. This ensures each bite has a bit of nutty goodness.
- Check the pie’s doneness by gently shaking it. The edges should be firm, while the centre should have a slight jiggle.
Letting the pie cool completely before slicing is essential for a perfect presentation. Happy baking!
How to Make Maple Pecan Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pie:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup pure maple syrup (preferably dark or amber)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, to thicken)
- 2 cups pecan halves
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then 50-60 minutes to bake. After baking, let the pie cool completely at room temperature for the best results. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes, plus cooling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your pie.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Place the unbaked pie crust into your 9-inch pie dish. If you like, you can trim the edges and flute them for a nice look. Set the crust aside while you work on the filling.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and flour (if you’re using it). Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Add the Pecans:
Gently stir in the pecan halves, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. Then, carefully pour the mixture over the pie crust.
5. Bake the Pie:
Put the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the filling should be set and slightly puffed. To check if it’s done, give the pie a gentle shake—the center should have a soft jiggle but not be overly liquid.
6. Cool the Pie:
Once baked, take the pie out of the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. This is an important step to help the filling fully set and makes slicing easier.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s time to serve, cut yourself a slice of this delicious pie. You can enjoy it plain, or for a special treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
Enjoy the rich, sweet flavor of maple combined with the crunchy pecans in this classic dessert!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts or a mix of your favorite nuts. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor profile of the pie, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Make This Pie Gluten-Free?
You can easily make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free pie crust and substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
Can I Make This Pie in Advance?
Yes! This pie can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after it has cooled completely. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or reheat it gently in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy, simply serve it cold or warm up individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds!
