Golden Maple Custard Pie is a delightful twist on the classic custard pie, bringing the warmth and richness of pure maple syrup into every creamy bite. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dessert that evokes the cozy feeling of fall gatherings and holiday feasts. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a comforting slice.
The foundation of this pie is a simple yet perfect 9-inch pie crust, which holds our creamy filling. To create that silky custard, we use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream, which adds richness. The star of the show is pure maple syrup, lending a cozy sweetness that's both robust and natural. Eggs are the backbone, providing structure and that classic custard set. A touch of salt balances the flavors, while vanilla extract enhances the sweetness. Finally, a sprinkle of ground nutmeg adds warmth and depth.
This pie pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement its richness. For a hint of tartness, serve with a side of fresh cranberries or apple slices. A sprinkle of toasted nuts on top can add a delightful crunch.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is ready to bake the custard evenly. Meanwhile, gently place your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it in gently, and trim any overhanging edges for a neat finish.
Next, in a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and maple syrup. Heat this mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until you see small bubbles forming around the edges. This warming step is crucial as it prepares the liquid for the eggs without cooking them instantly.
While the milk mixture heats, grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, salt, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until smooth. This is your custard base, so aim for a consistent, lump-free mixture.
Now, the key part: slowly whisk the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture. This process, known as tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling by gradually raising their temperature. Pour the milk mixture in a thin stream while whisking continuously.
Once combined, pour the custard into your prepared pie crust. Carefully transfer the pie to the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the pie to cool at room temperature. This will give the custard time to firm up slightly. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate it before serving.
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