Maple Pecan Tart Delight
Introduction
As the leaves begin to fall and the temperatures dip, it’s time to cozy up with a slice of pure autumn bliss! Our Maple Pecan Tart Delight is a delicious nod to the flavors of the season, offering a rich, buttery crust filled with sweet maple syrup and crunchy pecans. Imagine yourself basking in the warm aroma wafting from your kitchen as this tart bakes to golden perfection. I invite you to subscribe to my email list to receive more delightful recipes like this one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Maple Pecan Tart Delight encapsulates everything you love about autumn desserts. The balance of sweet maple syrup and crunchy pecans creates an irresistible flavor that is both rich and comforting. The recipe is simple enough for a novice baker and sophisticated enough to impress guests at any gathering. Plus, it’s a family-friendly treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg yolk
– 2 tablespoons cold water
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– 3 large eggs
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups pecan halves
Necessary Tools
– Food processor
– 9-inch tart pan
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Rolling pin
– Plastic wrap
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
While this recipe is perfect as is, feel free to customize it! You can swap in honey for the maple syrup for a different sweetness, or add a splash of bourbon for an extra depth of flavor. If you love chocolate, sprinkle some chocolate chips among the pecans for a delicious twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for a baking adventure.
2. In a food processor, combine flour, sugar, and salt, then add the chilled butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this step builds a perfect, flaky crust!
3. Add the egg yolk and cold water. Process until the dough forms a ball. Wrap it up in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes; this will ensure it’s nice and firm for rolling!
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your tart pan. Press it into the pan and trim the edges, then let it chill in the fridge for another 15 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Feel that buttery richness!
6. Spread the pecan halves evenly into the chilled tart shell, then pour that sweet maple mixture over the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. The smell will be out of this world! Let it cool completely before slicing into it.
Serving Suggestions
This tart pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also shines alongside a cup of hot apple cider or a steaming mug of coffee, making it an ideal centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your butter is cold to achieve that flaky texture!
– Keep an eye on the tart in the last few minutes of baking; you want a golden crust without over-baking.
– Allow the tart to cool completely for easier slicing and serving.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQ Section
– Can I make the crust ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the crust a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
– What if I can’t find pecans? Substitute with walnuts for a different yet still delicious flavor!
Conclusion
This Maple Pecan Tart Delight is not only a beautiful dessert, but it’s also straightforward to make and incredibly satisfying to share with your loved ones. The combination of sweet maple and crunchy pecans makes every bite a celebration of fall. I’d love to see your creations—feel free to leave a review, share photos, or tag me on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving:
Calories: 320
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 18g
