Maple Montreal Tart
Introduction
The Maple Montreal Tart is a delectable fusion of Canadian flavors, featuring the rich and distinct taste of maple syrup. This dessert is inspired by the culinary history of Montreal, a city renowned for its blend of French and Canadian gastronomic traditions. The tart’s origins can be traced back to the simple sugar pies of early French Canadian settlers who used the abundant maple resources available in the region. Today, this dessert celebrates the essence of Quebec’s maple syrup production, which is among the largest in the world.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour - 2 cups
- Unsalted butter - 1 cup, chilled and cubed
- Granulated sugar - 1/2 cup
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Ice water - 4 tablespoons
- Maple syrup - 1 cup
- Heavy cream - 1 cup
- Eggs - 3 large
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Pecans - 1/2 cup, chopped
- Brown sugar - 1/4 cup
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough starts to come together. Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Roll and Pre-Bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess. Prick the base with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, then return to the oven for another 5 minutes until partially cooked. Allow to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, heavy cream, and brown sugar. Place over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved, and bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and vanilla extract until just blended. Gradually whisk the cooled maple mixture into the eggs until smooth and fully combined. Stir in the pecans for added texture and flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Tart
Pour the filling into the prepared crust, and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set with a slight jiggle in the center. Insert a toothpick in the center to check for doneness; it should come out mostly clean. Let the tart cool completely on a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
The Maple Montreal Tart can be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed. For an extra touch of decadence, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a cup of coffee or, to truly accentuate the maple flavors, a glass of dry Riesling wine.