Maple Sugar Cream Pie is a rich, decadent dessert that combines the creamy texture of a custard with the unique flavor of maple syrup. This pie is perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall and winter months when warm, comforting desserts are most appreciated. Follow these steps to create a delicious Maple Sugar Cream Pie.
Ingredients:
- Pie:
- 1 deep dish frozen pie crust
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon maple extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Take the frozen pie crust out of the freezer and let it thaw for about 10 minutes.
- Once thawed, use a fork to prick the bottom and sides of the pie crust to prevent bubbling.
- Bake the pie crust in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Make the Maple Cream Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk constantly until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
- Once the mixture is thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Stir in the unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, maple extract, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the maple cream filling into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon until combined.
- Pour the topping mixture over the maple cream filling, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula.
- Bake the Pie:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the pie for about 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.
- Serve:
- Once the pie is chilled and set, slice and serve.
- Optionally, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.
Tips for Perfect Maple Sugar Cream Pie:
- Cornstarch: Ensure the cornstarch is well mixed into the cream mixture before heating to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Stir Constantly: When cooking the filling, stir constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan and to achieve a smooth texture.
- Cool Completely: Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating to ensure the filling sets properly.
- Maple Syrup: Use high-quality pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Avoid using pancake syrup, as it does not have the same rich taste.
Variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Add a layer of crushed pecans or walnuts on top of the filling before adding the topping mixture for an extra crunchy texture.
- Maple Pecan: Incorporate chopped pecans into the filling for a delightful maple pecan flavor.
- Spiced Maple: Add a pinch of nutmeg and a dash of allspice to the filling for a spiced twist.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time? A: Yes, Maple Sugar Cream Pie can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Q: Can I use a homemade pie crust? A: Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade pie crust, blind bake it before adding the filling to ensure it remains crisp.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 4g
Maple Sugar Cream Pie is a delightful dessert that showcases the rich flavor of maple syrup in a creamy custard filling. It’s an ideal treat for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or simply when you crave a comforting and sweet indulgence. Enjoy making and sharing this delectable pie with loved ones!
