Introduction

These delightful Maple Pecan Tartlets are a perfect treat for anyone who loves the rich and sweet flavors of maple syrup combined with the crunch of pecans. Ideal for special occasions or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these tartlets are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests with their irresistible taste.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Tartlet pastry: 250g
– Maple syrup: 200ml
– Brown sugar: 50g
– Eggs: 2
– Pecans: 150g, chopped
– Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
– Salt: a pinch

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in French

– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Yield: 6 tartlets

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Tart Shells

To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease your tartlet pans with butter or cooking spray. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and mix until a dough forms.

Roll Out the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). Carefully cut circles that fit into the tartlet pans. Press the dough circles into the pans, ensuring there are no air pockets.

Bake the Tart Shells

Place the tartlet pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Add Pecans

Chop the pecans roughly and add them to the maple mixture. Stir well to ensure that the pecans are evenly coated in the filling.

Fill the Tart Shells

Carefully pour the maple and pecan filling into the baked tart shells. Make sure to fill them evenly, without overfilling to prevent spilling during baking.

Bake the Tartlets

Return the filled tartlet pans to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly bubbling.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, take the tartlets out of the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Carefully remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

Choosing Ingredients

Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor. Fresh pecans can enhance the taste and texture of the tartlets.

Storage Instructions

These tartlets can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tartlets with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.

Variations

You can experiment by adding other nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for different flavors. Adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference.

Cook techniques

Making the Pastry Crust

The key to a flaky and tender pastry is to keep your ingredients cold. Use butter straight from the refrigerator and work quickly to avoid warming the dough with your hands.

Preparing the Filling

Combine the syrup, eggs, and sugar thoroughly before adding the pecans. This ensures an even distribution of ingredients and a smoother consistency.

Baking the Tartlets

Bake the tartlets until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as each oven can vary in temperature.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the tartlets to cool completely on a wire rack. This helps the filling to firm up, making them easier to remove from the molds.

FAQ

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor or nut texture.

How do I store leftover tartlets?

Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I make the pastry crust in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pastry crust in advance and freeze it. Just remember to thaw it before rolling out for use.

What can I serve with these tartlets?

These tartlets pair well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence.

Conclusion

The maple pecan tartlets are a delightful dessert, perfect for any occasion. Their rich flavor and satisfying crunch from the pecans create a unique combination that is sure to impress your guests. Easy to prepare, these tartlets bring a touch of sweetness and elegance to your table.

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