Maple Pecan Pumpkin Brûlée Pie: A Fall Dessert Masterpiece

Prepare to fall in love with the ultimate autumn dessert: Maple Pecan Pumpkin Brûlée Pie. This stunning creation combines the creamy, spiced goodness of a classic pumpkin pie with the sophisticated caramelized top of a crème brûlée, all elevated by the sweet, nutty flavors of maple and pecans. If you’re searching for a show-stopping addition to your holiday table or simply craving a cozy slice of fall comfort food, this recipe will steal your heart with every bite.

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like indulging in pumpkin recipes that capture the essence of the season. This pie is a fusion of textures and tastes, blending the smooth richness of pumpkin with the crunchy allure of pecans and a glossy, crackable sugar topping. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just diving into fall baking recipes, this dessert promises to impress both family and friends.

Join me as we explore this irresistible treat, perfect for Thanksgiving, cozy weekends, or any occasion that calls for something extraordinary. Let’s dive into the world of fall desserts easy enough to make but elegant enough to remember!

Recipe Overview

Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert, Pumpkin Dessert
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8

What You’ll Need

Creating the perfect Maple Pecan Pumpkin Brûlée Pie requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters in this delightful pumpkin pie recipe easy to follow:

• Pie Crust: A flaky, buttery base that holds everything together, providing a crisp contrast to the creamy filling.
• Pumpkin Puree: The heart of any pumpkin dessert, delivering that signature autumnal taste and velvety texture.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetness and depth, complementing the pumpkin with its warm, caramel-like notes.
• Pecans: Brings a nutty crunch, enhancing the pie with a toasty richness that screams fall baking.
• Heavy Cream and Eggs: These create the custard-like consistency, ensuring a smooth and luxurious filling.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger blend to give that classic spiced warmth found in many pumpkin recipes.
• Granulated Sugar: Used for the brûlée topping, it caramelizes into a glossy, crackable layer for a true creme brulee recipe experience.

Discover the autumnal charm of crafting this delightful dessert

INGREDIENTS

• – 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch, unbaked)
• – 1 ½ cups canned pumpkin puree
• – ½ cup pure maple syrup
• – ¾ cup heavy cream
• – 2 large eggs
• – ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• – 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• – ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• – ¼ tsp ground ginger
• – ¼ tsp salt
• – ½ cup chopped pecans
• – 3 tbsp granulated sugar (for brûlée topping)

PREPARATION

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges as desired. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, heavy cream, eggs, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt to the mixture. Stir until the spices are fully incorporated, ensuring a balanced flavor.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans gently, distributing them evenly throughout the filling for a delightful crunch in every bite.
5. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight jiggle. If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil after 30 minutes.
6. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Then, refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight to fully set the filling.
7. Before serving, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top of the chilled pie. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, crackable crust. If you don’t have a torch, place the pie under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
8. Let the pie sit for 5 minutes to allow the brûlée topping to harden slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy this decadent fall comfort food!

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories: 380 per serving
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugar: 28g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 180mg

Tips for the Perfect Brûlée Topping

Achieving that signature crackable top on your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Brûlée Pie can be a game-changer. Ensure the pie is fully chilled before adding the sugar layer, as this prevents the filling from melting under the heat. Use a thin, even layer of sugar and work in small sections with your torch for consistent caramelization. If using a broiler, keep a close eye to avoid burning—every second counts!

Why Maple and Pecans Pair So Well with Pumpkin

The trio of maple, pecans, and pumpkin is a match made in fall baking heaven. Maple syrup brings a natural sweetness that enhances pumpkin’s earthy tones, while pecans add a buttery crunch that contrasts the creamy filling. Together, they create a depth of flavor that elevates this pumpkin dessert beyond the ordinary, making it a standout among fall desserts easy to prepare.

Make-Ahead Options for Holiday Baking

Planning ahead for Thanksgiving or other celebrations? This pumpkin pie recipe easy to follow can be made up to two days in advance. Bake and cool the pie, then store it in the refrigerator without the brûlée topping. Add and caramelize the sugar just before serving to maintain that fresh, crisp texture. It’s a lifesaver for busy fall baking recipes enthusiasts!

Alternative Toppings for Versatility

While the brûlée topping is the star of this creme brulee recipe twist, you can switch things up. Try a dollop of whipped cream with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of extra crushed pecans for a different vibe. These alternatives still honor the spirit of fall comfort food while offering variety for repeat bakes.

Storing and Reheating Your Pie

To keep your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Brûlée Pie fresh, store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Avoid reheating the brûlée topping as it will soften; instead, enjoy slices cold or at room temperature to preserve the texture. This tip ensures your pumpkin dessert remains as delightful as the first slice.

Customizing Spices for Your Taste

Love a spicier kick in your pumpkin recipes? Feel free to adjust the cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger levels to suit your palate. You could even add a pinch of cloves or allspice for an extra layer of warmth, making this pumpkin cake recipes-inspired pie uniquely yours while keeping that cozy fall baking charm.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin for your Maple Pecan Pumpkin Brûlée Pie, simply roast and puree about 1 ½ cups worth. Ensure it’s smooth and well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the pie’s texture. This tweak works wonderfully for any pumpkin pie recipe easy to adapt.

How Do I Prevent a Soggy Crust?

A soggy crust can dampen the joy of fall desserts easy to make. To avoid this, pre-bake (blind bake) your crust for 10 minutes at 375°F before adding the filling. Use pie weights or dried beans to keep the shape, then proceed with the recipe. This ensures a crisp base for your pumpkin dessert.

Can I Make This Pie Without a Kitchen Torch?

Yes, you can still achieve the brûlée effect for this creme brulee recipe twist without a torch. Place the chilled pie under your oven’s broiler for 1-2 minutes, rotating if needed for even caramelization. Watch closely to prevent burning, and you’ll have a stunning top for your fall baking recipes masterpiece.

Savor the rich, caramelized flavors of fall with this stunning pie