Elegant Maple Pecan Tart for a Sophisticated Thanksgiving Dessert

What kind of recipe is it?

The Elegant Maple Pecan Tart is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the essence of Thanksgiving, combining the rich flavors of toasted pecans with the natural sweetness of pure maple syrup.

This exquisite tart features a buttery, flaky crust and a luxurious filling that creates a delightful contrast in texture. Ideal for those looking to impress family and friends at holiday gatherings, this recipe appeals to both seasoned bakers and culinary novices alike, making it a must-have addition to any festive table.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups (190g)
Unsalted butter	½ cup (113g), cold
Granulated sugar	¼ cup (50g)
Salt	½ teaspoon
Ice water	3-4 tablespoons
Pecans	1 ½ cups (150g), chopped
Pure maple syrup	1 cup (240ml)
Brown sugar	½ cup (100g)
Eggs	3 large
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Heavy cream	½ cup (120ml)

Notes:

Verify that all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results.
Feel free to use freshly chopped pecans for enhanced flavor and texture.

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Verify the baking space is clear for easy access.
In a mixing bowl, combine 190 g (1 ½ cups) of all-purpose flour, 50 g (¼ cup) of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk to blend the dry ingredients evenly.
Cut 113 g (½ cup) of cold unsalted butter into small cubes and add to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 5-7 minutes.
Gradually add 3-4 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together 240 ml (1 cup) of pure maple syrup, 100 g (½ cup) of brown sugar, 3 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 120 ml (½ cup) of heavy cream until smooth and fully combined.
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a 30 cm (12-inch) circle, about 0.5 cm (¼-inch) thick.
Transfer the rolled dough to a 23 cm (9-inch) tart pan, gently pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough.
Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling, and refrigerate for an additional 10 minutes.
Remove the tart shell from the refrigerator and line it with parchment paper, then fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the crust is set.
Carefully remove the weights and parchment, then return the crust to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the bottom is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Reduce the oven temperature to 160 °C (320 °F). Once the tart shell has cooled for about 10 minutes, evenly spread 150 g (1 ½ cups) of chopped pecans across the bottom of the crust.
Pour the filling mixture over the pecans, making sure that it covers them evenly.
Bake the tart for 40-45 minutes, until the filling is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be slightly puffed and the edges will have a light golden color.
Allow the tart to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. The filling will continue to firm up as it cools. Enjoy!

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Variations

Chocolate Maple Pecan Tart: Add 100 g (3.5 oz) of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling mixture for a rich chocolate flavor.
Gluten-Free Maple Pecan Tart: Substitute all-purpose flour with 190 g (1 ½ cups) of gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free crust.
Vegan Maple Pecan Tart: Replace the eggs in the filling with 60 ml (¼ cup) of flaxseed meal mixed with 180 ml (¾ cup) of water, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Spiced Autumn Tart: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg into the filling for a warm fall flavor profile.

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Tips on plating and presentation

Plating your elegant maple pecan tart beautifully can transform it from a simple dessert into a stunning centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.

I love to dust a little powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.

Finally, consider using a beautiful platter to elevate its presentation!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

When planning a Thanksgiving feast, it’s important to take into account which dishes will complement your elegant maple pecan tart.

I love pairing it with savory roasted squash or a creamy Brussels sprout side.

Adding a rich stuffing, perhaps with herbs and sausage, offsets the tart’s sweetness perfectly.

A tangy cranberry sauce also works wonders, balancing flavors beautifully on your holiday table.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To enhance the enjoyment of your elegant maple pecan tart, selecting the right drinks can elevate the entire dining experience.

I love pairing it with a rich dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling or a smooth bourbon cocktail. You might also consider hot coffee with cream for a cozy touch.

Each option complements the tart’s sweetness perfectly, making every bite irresistible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make the Tart Crust Ahead of Time?

Absolutely, you can make the tart crust ahead of time! I often prepare it a day or two in advance, then refrigerate it. It keeps well, saving me time when I’m ready to bake.

How Long Will the Tart Last in the Fridge?

The tart will last in the fridge for about three to four days, so I always make sure to cover it tightly. After that, the flavors start to diminish, and it loses its freshness.

Is There a Gluten-Free Option for the Crust?

I usually make a gluten-free crust using almond flour and coconut flour. It’s delicious and complements the flavors perfectly. Just guarantee you use the right ratios to keep it flaky and tasty!

Can I Substitute Another Nut for Pecans?

Yes, you can substitute another nut for pecans. I’ve used walnuts and almonds before, and they add a unique flavor. Just keep the texture and sweetness in mind while making adjustments to the recipe.

What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. If I don’t eat them within a few days, I freeze them to keep them fresh for longer. It’s that simple!