Cabane à Sucre Tarte

Introduction

The Cabane à Sucre Tarte, or Sugar Shack Pie, is a traditional treat that hails from the sugar shacks of Québec, Canada. These rustic cabins are the birthplace of this sweet and rich dessert. The pie exemplifies the region's love affair with maple syrup, a natural resource abundantly harvested in the local maple woods.

History

The tradition of making maple syrup dates back hundreds of years to the Indigenous peoples of North America who shared their knowledge with the early settlers. Over time, as French cuisine began to merge with local ingredients, the Cabane à Sucre Tarte emerged as a staple dessert. Today, this pie is a centerpiece during sugaring-off season, where friends and families gather to celebrate the end of winter and the syrup harvest.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour - 2 cups
• Unsalted butter - 1 cup, chilled and cubed
• Granulated sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Ice water - 4 tablespoons
• Maple syrup - 1 cup
• Brown sugar - 1/2 cup
• Heavy cream- 1/2 cup
• Eggs - 3, beaten
• Cornstarch - 2 tablespoons

Preparation

Before diving into the preparation, set aside ample time, and ensure your cooking timer is ready to use. An accurate cooking timer is essential for perfect results.

Making the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Add the chilled unsalted butter to the bowl. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough starts to hold together.
4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, and heavy cream.
2. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved fully. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and cornstarch.
4. Gradually incorporate the egg mixture into the syrup mixture, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.

Assembly and Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Drape the rolled-out dough over your pan and trim any excess.
3. Pour the maple filling into the prepared crust.
4. Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and set your cooking timer for 45 minutes.
5. Bake until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. If needed, cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.
6. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this traditional dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, enhancing the already indulgent flavors of maple syrup. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, especially after a savory meal.

The Cabane à Sucre Tarte is more than just a dessert; it's an experience that carries the warmth and tradition of Québec's sugar shacks right into your home.