Oh my goodness, I can’t even begin to describe how much I adore this Maple Pecan Tart! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, with its sweet, nutty filling that just melts in your mouth. Every time I make it, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen, where the scent of toasted pecans mingled with that rich, maple sweetness would fill the air. Trust me, there’s something magical about the combination of that flaky crust and the gooey filling that makes it impossible to resist. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or just a cozy night in, this tart always steals the show. I promise, the moment you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! So let’s dive into the deliciousness together!
Ingredients List
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped – make sure to give them a rough chop; you want those delightful nutty bites!
- 1 cup maple syrup – the star of the show! Go for pure maple syrup for that unbeatable flavor.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar – this adds a lovely depth of sweetness; don’t forget to pack it in tightly!
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – it brings everything together, creating that rich, gooey filling.
- 3 large eggs – these work their magic to hold the filling perfectly together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – because who doesn’t love a hint of vanilla to elevate the flavors?
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and enhance all those yummy flavors!
- 1 pre-made pie crust – I often use a store-bought crust for convenience, but feel free to make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
How to Prepare the Maple Pecan Tart
Alright, let’s get our hands a little sticky and whip up this heavenly Maple Pecan Tart! The first step to success is preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a properly heated oven ensures your tart bakes evenly. While that’s warming up, grab a mixing bowl and start combining your wet ingredients. Whisk together the maple syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended. I like to use a whisk here to really incorporate everything—it’s a great way to get some energy out!
Preheat and Mix
As your oven is heating, focus on mixing those wet ingredients. Take your time, and make sure everything is combined nicely, with no lumps lurking around. You want that filling to be silky smooth! This step is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld together beautifully. I like to mix for about 2-3 minutes until I can see that beautiful caramel color starting to form. Wow, it smells amazing already!
Incorporating the Pecans
Once your wet mix is ready, it’s time to add the chopped pecans. Gently fold them into the mixture. This is my favorite part! The pecans not only add that crunch we all crave, but they also bring a rich, nutty flavor that’s just unbeatable. Make sure they’re evenly distributed so every slice of your tart is packed with that delightful texture. Trust me, the contrast of the creamy filling and the crunchy pecans is what makes this tart truly special!
Baking Instructions
Now, pour that luscious filling into your pre-made pie crust and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set but still has a slight jiggle in the center—this means it’ll be perfectly gooey after cooling. Oh, the anticipation! Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time is crucial as it allows the filling to firm up. You’ll want to dig in while it’s still warm, but let’s be honest, it tastes great at any temperature!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
- Rich, sweet, and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a dollop of whipped cream.
- The flaky crust complements the gooey filling beautifully, creating a delightful texture.
- Can be made ahead of time, so you’re all set for gatherings or last-minute guests.
- Versatile enough to be served at any occasion, from holidays to casual family dinners.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, making it budget-friendly.
- Each slice is a showstopper, guaranteed to impress your friends and family!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Maple Pecan Tart comes out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips that I swear by:
- Crust Handling: If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before placing it in the pie dish. This helps it relax and fit the dish without cracking. If you’re feeling adventurous and decide to make your own crust, make sure to chill it well before rolling it out. A cold crust will bake up flakier and hold its shape better!
- Filling Consistency: When you mix your wet ingredients, be sure to whisk them until they’re smooth and well combined. This ensures a silky filling that’s evenly sweetened. If you notice any lumps, don’t hesitate to mix a bit longer. You want that rich, buttery texture to shine through!
- Tart Cooling: Letting your tart cool completely is key! If you cut into it while it’s still warm, the filling might not hold together. Patience is a virtue here—let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. The flavors will deepen as it cools, too, making each bite even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: I love serving my Maple Pecan Tart with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can really elevate the flavors and balance the sweetness. And don’t forget, it also tastes amazing the next day—if there’s any left!
- Storage: If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for about 3-4 days. Just rewarm a slice in the microwave for a few seconds before serving for that fresh-baked taste!
With these tips, I just know your Maple Pecan Tart will be a hit. Happy baking, my friend!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for a slice of this delightful Maple Pecan Tart. Each serving packs a flavorful punch while still being a treat you can enjoy:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 4g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But wow, doesn’t that make you want to dive right in? Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing it’s a wonderfully sweet indulgence!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and oh-so-delicious, you can definitely swap them for walnuts or even hazelnuts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be scrumptious!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers—lucky you!—just store your Maple Pecan Tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just reheat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that warm, gooey goodness again!
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, yes, yes! This tart is perfect for making a day ahead. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious. It’s a great way to save time on the day you’re serving it!
What can I serve with the tart?
I love to serve my Maple Pecan Tart with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s like a match made in dessert heaven! You could also drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top for an extra decadent touch. Yum!
What should I do if my filling doesn’t set?
If your filling doesn’t set, it might need a little more time in the oven. Just keep an eye on it; the filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center. If it’s still too gooey after the suggested baking time, give it an additional 5-10 minutes, but be careful not to overbake it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep that Maple Pecan Tart fresh and delicious! If you end up with any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a bit of a miracle), just pop it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay tasty for about 3-4 days. I recommend letting it cool completely before you seal it up, as this helps maintain the perfect texture!
When you’re ready to indulge in another slice (or two!), you can simply reheat it to bring back that warm, gooey goodness. Just take a slice and pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—this will warm it up beautifully without compromising its delicious filling. If you prefer to reheat it in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the tart in for about 10 minutes. This method can help keep that flaky crust nice and crispy!
Whether you’re enjoying it cold straight from the fridge or warmed up, I promise it’ll still be utterly delightful. So go ahead, treat yourself to that sweet slice of nostalgia! Happy snacking!
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Maple Pecan Tart: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave This Dessert
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious maple pecan tart with a sweet, nutty filling and a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the filling into the pre-made pie crust.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Can be made a day ahead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Maple pecan tart, dessert, pecan pie