There’s something truly comforting about the scent of maple wafting through the kitchen, mingling with the warm crunch of walnuts. I first crafted this Maple Walnut Pie on a crisp autumn day, craving a dessert that encapsulated the essence of Canadian fall. With its rich, velvety filling sweetened by pure Canadian maple syrup, this pie is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings everyone around the table together.
Perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving or Canada Day, this pie strikes a harmonious balance between sweetness and a delightful nuttiness that will make it the star of any dessert spread. If you’ve grown tired of the same old offerings or are battling the fast-food fatigue that comes with busy weeks, you’ll find that this pie is refreshingly simple yet impressively delicious. So let’s dive into this recipe and create a dessert that’s not only indulgent but also warms the heart and soul. Your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Walnut Maple Pie so irresistible?
Comforting Aroma: The moment you pop this pie in the oven, your kitchen will be filled with a heavenly scent of warm maple and toasted walnuts, an invitation no one can resist.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can create this delicious dessert—no advanced baking skills required!
Versatile Flavor: This pie’s rich, nutty taste perfectly complements holiday meals but is equally scrumptious year-round.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at Thanksgiving or a summer barbecue, this pie is sure to delight friends and family alike.
Elegant Presentation: Gorgeous golden-brown filling and a beautifully baked crust create an impressive centerpiece for any gathering.
Satisfying Texture: Each slice offers a delightful balance of creamy filling and crunchy walnuts, keeping every bite exciting!
Walnut Maple Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
- Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and flavor; use pure Canadian maple syrup for an authentic taste.
- Brown Sugar – Provides additional sweetness and depth; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a unique twist.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; no substitutions needed for optimal taste.
- Melted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Whipping Cream – Introduces creaminess; can replace with coconut cream for a delightful dairy-free version.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavors; using pure vanilla extract gives a better aromatic experience.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the filling; a gluten-free flour blend works well as a substitution.
- Eggs – Provides structure and a binding element; ensure they’re at room temperature for the best results.
- Walnuts – Infuses texture and taste; while pecans can be used instead, they do change the pie’s signature flavor.
For the Crust
- Ice Cold Water – Binds the dough; essential for achieving a perfect pie crust texture.
- White Vinegar – Improves tenderness of the crust; can substitute with lemon juice, but vinegar is preferred for its effects.
How to Make Walnut Maple Pie
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Prepare Pie Crust: In a food processor, blend the cold butter with all-purpose flour and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This ensures a flaky, buttery crust.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Pour in the ice-cold water mixed with white vinegar. Form the dough gently to minimize handling, aiming for a cohesive texture.
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Chill Dough: Divide the dough, flatten each portion, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This rests the gluten, making the crust tender.
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Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 12-14 inch circle, then place it into a pie plate, careful not to stretch. Trim and crimp the edges to your liking.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking.
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Prepare Filling: In a saucepan, bring maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt to a boil for about 5 minutes. Then, take it off the heat and stir in the whipping cream and vanilla extract. Let this mixture cool.
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Combine Filling Ingredients: Whisk the eggs into your cooled filling, then gently fold in the all-purpose flour and walnuts. This creates a well-balanced and delicious filling.
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Bake: Pour the walnut filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake for 15 minutes at 375°F, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes until set, with the center slightly jiggly.
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Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. For the best flavor, refrigerate until ready to serve.
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Serve: Slice and serve your Walnut Maple Pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat!
Optional: Drizzle with extra maple syrup before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Walnut Maple Pie
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Use Pure Maple Syrup: Always opt for pure Canadian maple syrup for authentic flavor; imitation syrups can result in a less satisfying pie.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Bring your eggs to room temperature before mixing to ensure they incorporate well into the filling, creating a smooth texture.
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Cool the Filling: Let the maple mixture cool completely before adding eggs; this prevents curdling and maintains a silky filling in your Walnut Maple Pie.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes—some ovens may vary. The center should be mostly set but still slightly jiggly for the perfect texture.
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Don’t Skimp on Chilling: Chill your dough adequately; this step is crucial for achieving a flaky crust that won’t shrink during baking.
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Serve Cold: For the best flavor experience, refrigerate the pie before serving; this enhances the taste and allows the filling to set beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Walnut Maple Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings. To prep ahead, make the pie crust, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The filling can also be made and stored in an airtight container; just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the cooled filling into the chilled crust and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have a delightful, homemade dessert with minimal effort, just waiting to impress your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Walnut Maple Pie
- Room Temperature: Keep the pie at room temperature for up to 2 hours if serving. Beyond that, it’s best to refrigerate to maintain freshness.
- Fridge: Store leftover Walnut Maple Pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: You can freeze the pie for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen pie overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes before serving to restore its delightful texture.
What to Serve with Walnut Maple Pie?
The warmth of this delightful pie invites the perfect accompaniments for a truly memorable dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that perfectly balances the rich filling.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully against the warm pie, enhancing the sweet maple flavors and nutty crunch.
- Coffee: A hot cup of coffee provides a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the pie, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Candied Ginger: The warm, spicy notes of candied ginger add a lovely contrast, enhancing the aromatic experience of maple and walnuts.
- Apple Crisp: A slice of apple crisp offers a different texture; its fruitiness complements the nutty flavor of the pie without overshadowing it.
- Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider lends a festive touch, echoing the flavors of fall while refreshing the palate between bites.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel introduces another layer of decadence and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pie’s flavors.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola on top can add extra crunch and a wholesome element, enhancing the pie’s texture and flavor.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Elevate the dessert with a drizzle of pure maple syrup over the top, intensifying the maple flavor and adding a delightful shine.
Walnut Maple Pie Variations
Feel free to tailor your Walnut Maple Pie to match your preferences and dietary needs—let’s make it your own!
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Nut-Free: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts. This keeps the pie deliciously textured and allergy-friendly.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut cream instead of whipping cream to create a plant-based version that’s still rich and flavorful. Your vegan guests will appreciate it!
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Choco-Maple Delight: Add chocolate chips to the filling for an indulgent twist that pairs beautifully with the maple flavor. Each slice becomes a decadent treat!
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Spiced Twist: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor profile. This adds a cozy touch, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Bourbon Infusion: For an adult-only version, add a splash of bourbon to the filling mixture. The rich flavors will enhance the maple and nutty notes delightfully.
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Fruit Add-In: Fold in some diced apples or pears alongside the walnuts for a fruity contrast that brightens each bite. It’s a surprising yet delightful twist!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked pie just before serving for an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
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Gluten-Free Crust: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten. This keeps the crust light while accommodating dietary needs!
Walnut Maple Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right walnuts for my pie?
Absolutely! Choose fresh walnuts that are firm and not discolored. Look for nuts that are light in color without dark spots or a rancid smell. Buying organic or raw walnuts is often a good choice since they retain their natural flavors.
How should I store leftover Walnut Maple Pie?
Very simply! Refrigerate any leftover pie for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and losing that delectable flavor.
Can I freeze Walnut Maple Pie for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes to restore its delicious texture.
What can I do if my pie filling is runny?
If you find that your Walnut Maple Pie filling is runny, it might be due to not allowing the filling to cool properly before adding the eggs or underbaking. Here’s what to do:
- Ensure the syrup mixture cools to room temperature.
- Bake the pie longer until the center is mostly set but still has that slight wobble—this helps to fully cook the filling.
Is Walnut Maple Pie safe for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, no. This recipe is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies due to walnuts being a key ingredient. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider a pecan-free pie recipe that uses seeds or other non-nut ingredients for added texture.
What can I serve with Walnut Maple Pie?
You can’t go wrong with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to serve alongside your pie. These accompaniments not only enhance the flavors but also add a beautiful, creamy contrast to the crunchy walnuts and sweet maple filling!
Irresistible Walnut Maple Pie – A Sweet Canadian Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Pie Crust: In a food processor, blend the cold butter with all-purpose flour and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Pour in the ice-cold water mixed with white vinegar. Form the dough gently to minimize handling.
- Chill Dough: Divide the dough, flatten each portion, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 12-14 inch circle and place it into a pie plate.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Filling: In a saucepan, bring maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt to a boil for about 5 minutes, then stir in the whipping cream and vanilla extract. Let this mixture cool.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Whisk the eggs into your cooled filling, then gently fold in the all-purpose flour and walnuts.
- Bake: Pour the walnut filling into the prepared pie crust. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes.
- Cool: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Serve: Slice and serve your Walnut Maple Pie with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.