Vermont Maple Sugar Pie Recipe

Indulge in a sweet treat with a distinct New England touch. This Vermont Maple Sugar Pie offers a delightful blend of flavors, merging the sweetness of Vermont maple syrup with the tanginess of fresh lemon juice. The pie crust is homemade, adding an extra layer of authenticity to this dessert. It's the perfect pie to serve on a cozy autumn evening or to impress guests at a dinner party.

Photos of Vermont Maple Sugar Pie Recipe

The main ingredient that you might not have at home is Vermont maple sugar. This ingredient is quintessential to the recipe as it gives the pie its distinct sweetness and rich flavor. You can find it in the baking aisle of most supermarkets or can easily order it online. Additionally, you may not usually stock up on vegetable shortening, which is needed for the crust. It's a common baking ingredient, though, and should be readily available at your local grocery store.

Ingredients for Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

All purpose flour: Used in both the pie crust and the filling, it's a binder that helps hold everything together.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the pie crust.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of other ingredients.

Vegetable shortening: Gives the pie crust its flakiness.

Cold water, large egg yolk, apple cider vinegar: These are used to bind the pie crust ingredients together.

Large eggs: Adds structure to the filling.

Vermont maple syrup: Infuses the pie with a deep, rich sweetness.

Butter: Provides flavor and richness to the filling.

Dark brown sugar, Vermont maple sugar: These sugars enhance the sweetness and add depth to the flavor profile.

Fresh lemon juice: Balances out the sweetness with a touch of acidity.

Pure vanilla extract: Gives the pie a subtle, but necessary hint of vanilla.

Lemon zest: This provides a refreshing touch of citrus to balance out the sweetness.

Ice cream: Serves as a delicious topping, though it's optional.

One reader, Bertina Dvorak says:

This Vermont maple sugar pie recipe is a game-changer! The pie crust is flaky and the filling is rich and sweet, with the perfect balance of maple flavor. It's a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a taste of pure indulgence.

Bertina Dvorak

Key Techniques for Mastering Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

How to make crust: Blend together flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Cut in shortening with a pastry cutter. Beat together water, egg yolk, and vinegar in a small bowl, then pour the liquid over the flour mixture and mix quickly with a fork. Shape the dough into a disc and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll the dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Place in a 9-inch pie dish, trim, and crimp the edges to make a high fluted border. Chill for at least 30 minutes.

How to make filling: Whisk together all filling ingredients in a large bowl until smooth. Pour the filling into the chilled pie crust and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly. Cool the pie to room temperature on a wire rack.

How to serve: Serve the pie with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

How To Make Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

A wonderful Canadian dessert, this maple sugar pie uses Vermont maple syrup and sugar for its rich filling that has subtle notes of lemon and vanilla.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Crust:

1cupall purpose flour
¾tspgranulated sugar
¼tspsalt
6tbspvegetable shortening
2tbspcold water
1largeegg yolk
¾tspapple cider vinegar

For Filling:

3large eggs
1cupvermont maple syrup
2tbspbutter
¼cupdark brown sugar,firmly packed
¼cupvermont maple sugar
2tbspfresh lemon juice
2tbspall purpose flour
1tsppure vanilla extract
1tsplemon zest,finely grated
pinchsalt
ice cream,or whipped cream, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Crust:

In a large mixing bowl, blend together flour, sugar, and salt with a fork. Cut in shortening with a pastry cutter.
In a small bowl, beat together water, egg yolk, and vinegar. Pour liquid over flour mixture and mix quickly with a fork (texture will be sticky).
Using hands, shape dough into a disc and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Remove from refrigerator; roll dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle, about ⅛-inch thick.
Place in a 9-inch pie dish and trim to 1 inch over the edge of the pan. Fold under and crimp the edge with fingers to make a high fluted border.
Chill for at least 30 minutes.

Filling:

In a large bowl, whisk together all filling ingredients until smooth.
Pour into chilled pie crust and bake about 35 minutes, or until edges are set but center jiggles slightly.
Cool to room temperature on a wire rack. Serve with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 347.57kcal
Fat: 15.04g
Saturated Fat: 5.04g
Trans Fat: 1.39g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.66g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.34g
Carbohydrates: 49.33g
Fiber: 0.51g
Sugar: 32.72g
Protein: 4.58g
Cholesterol: 100.44mg
Sodium: 253.84mg
Calcium: 65.70mg
Potassium: 155.18mg
Iron: 1.37mg
Vitamin A: 62.39µg
Vitamin C: 1.80mg

Essential Technique for Achieving the Perfect Crust

When rolling out your pie crust, ensure to keep the dough and your work surface well-floured to prevent sticking. Also, try to roll from the center outwards, this helps to maintain an even thickness throughout the crust. If your crust cracks a bit while rolling, don't worry, just patch it up with a bit of extra dough. Remember, the key to a flaky pie crust is keeping everything cold, so if your dough becomes too warm while you're working with it, don't hesitate to pop it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

Prepare the crust: Use a food processor to quickly blend the crust ingredients until they form a dough, saving time and effort.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process.

Prep in advance: Prepare the pie crust and filling a day ahead, refrigerating them until ready to use, to save time on the day of baking.

Use pre-made crust: If short on time, consider using a store-bought pie crust to cut down on preparation time.

Multi-task: While the pie is baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen and prepare any additional side dishes or desserts.

Substitute Ingredients For Vermont Maple Sugar Pie Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the pie crust, which can complement the sweetness of the filling.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the pie filling, enhancing the overall taste.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can provide a rich and flavorful base for the pie crust, adding a delicious buttery taste.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can offer a slightly milder acidity, which can still help tenderize the crust without adding a distinct apple flavor.
vermont maple syrup - Substitute with golden syrup: Golden syrup can provide a similar rich and sweet flavor, adding a delicious caramelized note to the pie filling.
vermont maple sugar - Substitute with brown sugar: Brown sugar can offer a similar depth of flavor and sweetness, enhancing the overall richness of the pie filling.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can provide a similar caramel-like flavor and sweetness, adding a unique depth to the pie filling.
lemon juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice can offer a slightly sweeter and less tart citrus flavor, which can complement the sweetness of the pie filling.
all purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can act as a thickening agent, helping to create a smooth and luscious texture for the pie filling.
ice cream - Substitute with whipped cream: Whipped cream can provide a light and airy topping, adding a creamy contrast to the rich and sweet flavors of the pie.

Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Maple Sugar Pie

Elevate the crust: Create a delicate, flaky crust using Vermont maple sugar to add a hint of sweetness and a beautiful golden color. Ensure the edges are perfectly crimped for a professional touch.
Artful drizzle: Drizzle a small amount of Vermont maple syrup on the plate before placing the pie slice. This adds a touch of elegance and emphasizes the maple flavor.
Garnish with lemon zest: Sprinkle a fine dusting of fresh lemon zest over the pie slice for a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma, enhancing the overall presentation.
Accompany with a quenelle of ice cream: Serve the pie with a carefully crafted quenelle of vanilla ice cream to add a contrasting temperature and creamy texture to the dish.
Use a decorative plate: Choose a porcelain plate with a subtle design or a unique shape to showcase the pie slice and complement the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Maple Sugar Pie

Mixing bowl: A large, round bowl used for mixing ingredients together, such as the pie crust and filling.
Pastry cutter: A handheld kitchen tool with curved blades used to cut the shortening into the flour for the pie crust.
9-inch pie dish: A round, oven-safe dish used for baking the pie.
Fork: Used for blending the flour, sugar, and salt for the pie crust, and for whisking the filling ingredients together.
Rolling pin: Used to roll out the pie dough into a 12-inch circle for the crust.
Wire rack: A metal rack used for cooling the pie after baking.

Storing and Freezing Vermont Maple Sugar Pie for Later Enjoyment

Let the maple sugar pie cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the maple sugar pie:
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Cover the wrapped pie with a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
- Label the pie with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
- Properly wrapped, the maple sugar pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen pie, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
Once thawed, you can serve the pie cold or reheat it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes to restore its crispy crust and warm, gooey filling.
If you want to freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, you can easily thaw and enjoy a single serving whenever you like.

How To Reheat Leftover Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the crust from browning too quickly while the filling heats through. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is warmed to your liking. The foil will trap the moisture, preventing the pie from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier crust, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the crust to crisp up nicely without overcooking the filling. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn.
For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Cut the desired portion of vermont maple sugar pie and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval to avoid overheating. The microwave method is faster but may result in a softer crust.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover pie. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie slice in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the crust while heating the filling evenly.
For a stovetop method, place a slice of the pie in a skillet over low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the filling is warmed through. This gentle heating method will help prevent the bottom crust from becoming too crispy or burnt.
If you want to add a touch of extra flavor and richness, top the reheated pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of warm pie and cool, creamy topping is simply irresistible.

Fascinating Facts About Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

The Vermont Maple Sugar Pie recipe is a traditional dessert originating from the state of Vermont. It is a sweet and rich pie made with Vermont maple syrup, which gives it a distinctive and delicious flavor. This pie is often enjoyed during the fall and winter months when maple syrup production is at its peak in Vermont. It is a popular dessert choice for holiday gatherings and special occasions, and it pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The pie's filling is a delightful combination of eggs, maple syrup, and other ingredients, creating a decadent and satisfying treat.

Is Making Vermont Maple Sugar Pie at Home Cost-Effective?

This Vermont maple sugar pie recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients like maple syrup, butter, and eggs are relatively affordable and commonly found in most households. However, the use of Vermont maple sugar might be a bit pricier and could impact the overall cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. The rich, indulgent flavors and the delightful combination of maple and butter make this pie a delightful treat. I rate this recipe a solid 8 for its taste and simplicity.

Is Vermont Maple Sugar Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Vermont maple sugar pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content from the maple syrup, brown sugar, and maple sugar
Significant amount of saturated fat from the shortening and butter
Refined carbohydrates from the all-purpose flour
Lack of nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals

The combination of high sugar and fat content may contribute to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease if consumed regularly.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising its essence, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber content
Reduce the amount of maple syrup and sugars by 25% to lower the overall sugar content
Use a mix of butter and heart-healthy oil like coconut or olive oil instead of shortening
Incorporate some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add healthy fats and protein
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream for a protein boost and reduced sugar intake
Pair a smaller slice of the pie with a side of fresh berries to increase nutrient density and manage portion sizes

Editor's Take on the Delectable Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

This Vermont Maple Sugar Pie recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, creating a perfect balance in each bite. The crust is flaky and tender, providing a wonderful contrast to the rich and luscious filling. The use of Vermont maple syrup and sugar adds a distinct depth of flavor, while the touch of lemon zest and juice brightens the overall taste. The addition of ice cream complements the pie beautifully, adding a creamy and indulgent finish. Overall, this recipe is a true celebration of Vermont's maple syrup and is sure to impress anyone with a sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Vermont Maple Sugar Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Whipped sweet potatoes with a maple glaze

Grilled Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a maple-butter glaze

Fruit Salad: Maple-glazed apple and pear slices

Chicken Soup: Maple-infused butternut squash soup

Chocolate Cake: Maple sugar drizzled chocolate brownies

Delicious Alternatives to Vermont Maple Sugar Pie

Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy and comforting soup is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. The combination of butternut squash, onions, and warming spices creates a delicious and nutritious dish.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: This flavorful and easy-to-make salmon dish is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. The sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon fillets.

Berry Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy and delicious dessert is packed with fresh berries, chia seeds, and creamy coconut milk. It's a great make-ahead option for a nutritious breakfast or a satisfying sweet treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well with Maple Sugar Pie

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke with a blend of cheeses for a rich and savory appetizer that will have your guests coming back for more. Serve with warm bread or crispy tortilla chips for the perfect start to any meal.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a flavorful and satisfying appetizer by filling mushrooms with a mixture of savory ingredients like sausage, cheese, and breadcrumbs. These bite-sized treats are perfect for entertaining and are sure to impress your guests.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent Chicken Alfredo dish by combining tender grilled chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Prepare a hearty and flavorful Beef Stroganoff by sautéing tender strips of beef with onions and mushrooms in a creamy and tangy sauce. Serve it over a bed of buttery egg noodles for a classic and comforting main course.

Why trust this Vermont Maple Sugar Pie Recipe:

This Vermont Maple Sugar Pie recipe is a delightful fusion of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques. The use of Vermont maple syrup and Vermont maple sugar ensures an authentic and rich taste, while the addition of lemon juice and lemon zest adds a refreshing citrusy note. The careful blending of ingredients and precise baking instructions guarantee a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe to create a memorable dessert experience.

Share your thoughts on the Vermont Maple Sugar Pie Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this classic dessert even better!

FAQ:

How can I tell if the pie is done baking?

You can check the doneness of the pie by gently shaking the pie dish. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. Another way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use a different type of syrup instead of Vermont maple syrup?

While Vermont maple syrup is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of syrup. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile of the pie.

Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie crust ahead of time. After shaping the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month.

What is the best way to store leftover maple sugar pie?

To store leftover maple sugar pie, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. It's best to consume the pie within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Can I omit the lemon zest from the filling?

Yes, if you prefer not to have a lemon flavor in the pie, you can omit the lemon zest. It will still turn out delicious with the rich, sweet flavor of the maple sugar.