Chestnut Cream and Caramelized Apple Pie with Maple Pecans

This indulgent Chestnut Cream and Caramelized Apple Pie with Maple Pecans is the ultimate fall and winter dessert. With layers of caramelized apples, creamy chestnut filling, a buttery almond shortbread crust, and maple-coated pecans, this pie is an elegant treat with a cozy seasonal flavor profile. Each layer adds a unique texture and flavor, creating a deliciously balanced dessert that is well worth the preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Seasonal Flavors: Chestnut, caramelized apple, and maple bring warmth and richness to every bite.
• Impressive Layers: The creamy chestnut filling, crunchy maple pecans, and caramelized apples add complexity and elegance.
• Great for Entertaining: This pie is a showstopper for holiday gatherings and special occasions.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the components in stages for easier assembly on the day of serving.

Ingredients

Chestnut Cream:

• 250 ml milk
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 70 g sugar
• 250 g crème de marrons (chestnut cream)
• 250 ml whipping cream (very cold)

Almond Shortbread Crust:

• 250 g all-purpose flour
• 150 g butter, softened
• 70 g icing sugar
• 30 g ground almonds
• 1 egg

Caramelized Apples:

• 5 gala apples
• 40 g butter
• 70 g sugar

Maple Pecans:

• 50 g pecans
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Step-by-Step Directions

Chestnut Cream:

1. Heat the Milk: Pour milk and vanilla bean paste into a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the warm milk over this mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Thicken the Cream: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Transfer to a mixing bowl and allow it to cool completely.
4. Add Chestnut Cream: Once cooled, mix in the chestnut cream until well combined.
5. Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cold whipping cream until firm peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chestnut mixture until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.

Almond Shortbread Crust:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the icing sugar and ground almonds, mixing until smooth. Incorporate the flour and mix until the dough comes together without sticking.
2. Chill: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
3. Preheat and Roll: Preheat the oven to 365°F (185°C). Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a buttered and sugar-dusted pie pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and line with parchment paper, adding baking beans for blind baking.
4. Bake: Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Remove from oven and let cool.

Caramelized Apples:

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice each apple quarter into three slices.
2. Caramelize: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add apples and sprinkle sugar over them, stirring to coat. Cook until apples are tender and caramelized. Set aside.

Maple Pecans:

1. Caramelize the Pecans: In a skillet over medium heat, combine the pecans and maple syrup. Stir frequently until the maple syrup caramelizes and coats the pecans. Spread the pecans on parchment paper to cool and harden.

Assemble the Pie:

1. Layer the Apples: Spread the caramelized apples evenly over the cooled shortbread crust.
2. Pipe the Chestnut Cream: Fill a piping bag with the chestnut cream and pipe it over the apples, covering them completely.
3. Top with Maple Pecans: Chop the caramelized pecans and sprinkle them over the chestnut cream.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy this delicious, layered pie!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Skillet
• Rolling pin
• Pie plate
• Piping bag
• Parchment paper and baking beans

Tips for Success

• Cool the Cream: Ensure the chestnut cream is fully cooled before adding the whipped cream to keep it from melting.
• Refrigerate the Crust: Letting the dough chill for at least 1 hour helps it maintain its shape while baking.
• Prevent Soggy Crust: Blind baking the crust ensures it stays crisp and holds up well to the creamy filling and caramelized apples.
• Layer with Care: Gently pat down the caramelized apples in an even layer before piping the chestnut cream for a balanced texture.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional chopped pecans if desired.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent the cream from drying out.

Variations

• Hazelnut Twist: Swap the ground almonds in the crust for ground hazelnuts for a subtle nutty flavor.
• Apple Variation: Use a mix of apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
• Whiskey Maple Pecans: Add a dash of whiskey to the pecans while caramelizing for a hint of warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned whipped cream instead of whipping my own?
   Whipped cream from a can is not ideal for folding into the chestnut cream, as it won’t hold its structure well. Freshly whipped cream will give the best results.
2. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
   Yes, a store-bought crust can save time. Look for a shortbread or buttery crust for the closest match to homemade.
3. How can I prevent the cream from melting too quickly?
   Keep the cream cold, and chill the chestnut cream mixture for at least an hour before assembling to ensure it holds up well.
4. Can I make the components ahead of time?
   Absolutely! The crust, chestnut cream, and caramelized apples can all be prepared a day in advance. Assemble just before serving for the freshest presentation.

This Chestnut Cream and Caramelized Apple Pie with Maple Pecans is an elevated, seasonal dessert with beautiful textures and flavors. It’s perfect for impressing guests, making it a wonderful addition to any festive gathering or special dinner. Enjoy every delicious, indulgent bite!