If you love the cozy crunch of pecans combined with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, you are going to fall head over heels for this Maple Pecan Plaits Recipe. These plaits are beautifully braided pastries filled with a luscious blend of maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and warm cinnamon, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry that bakes up golden and irresistible. Sweet, nutty, and endlessly comforting, they make the perfect treat to share with family and friends at breakfast, brunch, or anytime you crave a little indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient plays an essential role in this recipe, offering layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Simple pantry staples come together to create an elegant and mouthwatering pastry that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
- 2 sheets Puff Pastry, thawed but cold: This provides the crisp, buttery layers that are the foundation of every delicious plait.
- 1 cup Pecans, chopped: Adds nutty crunch and a satisfying texture contrast to the soft filling.
- 1/3 cup Maple Syrup: The star sweetener, delivering that warm, natural sweetness and depth.
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar: Enhances the caramel notes in the filling and pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- 2 tablespoons Butter, melted: Binds the filling ingredients while adding richness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Brings warmth and spice that complements the maple and pecans perfectly.
- Pinch of Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash): Ensures the plaits get that glossy, golden finish in the oven.
- Optional: Flaky salt or extra maple syrup for finishing: Adds a final flourish, highlighting the sweetness or adding a savoriness to contrast it.
How to Make Maple Pecan Plaits Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and baking sheet
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier—this simple prep sets you up for baking success.
Step 2: Make the pecan filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is where the magic happens, blending crunchy texture with gooey, spiced sweetness.
Step 3: Prepare the puff pastry sheets
Unroll your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and gently roll it out to smooth any creases and thin it slightly if needed. This helps create even layers when you fold the plaits.
Step 4: Assemble the plaits
Spoon the pecan filling in a neat line down the center of each pastry sheet, leaving space for folding. Cut diagonal strips on both sides of the filling—these will become the “braids.” Carefully fold alternating strips over the filling to create the beautiful plaited look, sealing in that sweet, nutty goodness.
Step 5: Bake to golden perfection
Transfer your assembled plaits to the lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with beaten egg to ensure a shiny, golden crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until they puff up and turn a rich golden brown.
Step 6: Add finishing touches
Right after baking, brush the plaits with a little extra maple syrup for a glossy finish. If you love a hint of saltiness to balance the sweet, sprinkle flaky salt on top while they’re still warm.
Step 7: Cool and serve
Let the plaits cool slightly to set the filling and make slicing easier. They’re best enjoyed warm, letting the maple and pecan flavors truly shine in every buttery bite.
How to Serve Maple Pecan Plaits Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of additional maple syrup for extra allure. Toasted pecan halves as a garnish can also enhance both texture and presentation, making your plaits look as amazing as they taste.
Side Dishes
Maple Pecan Plaits pair perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or chai tea for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat. A bowl of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can turn the plaits into a decadent dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your plaits on a rustic wooden board with a small jar of maple syrup for dipping. If you’re feeling fancy, add fresh herbs like a sprig of rosemary for a pop of color and an unexpected aromatic touch. These little details make every bite feel special and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover plaits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps retain their flaky texture while keeping the filling moist and delicious. If you want them slightly crispier, a quick reheat in the oven refreshes the pastry beautifully.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked plaits by assembling them and wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to one month. When ready, bake directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to bake time, so you’re never without these delightful treats on demand.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the plaits in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. This brings back the crispy, buttery layers while warming the rich maple and pecan filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect flaky texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts provide a slightly different flavor and texture but still pair wonderfully with maple and cinnamon. Feel free to substitute or even mix nuts for an interesting twist on the traditional Maple Pecan Plaits Recipe.
Is puff pastry the best dough for this recipe?
Yes, puff pastry is ideal because it creates those light, flaky layers that complement the sticky, nutty filling perfectly. You could try croissant dough for a richer option, but puff pastry is the classic choice.
Can I make these plaits dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use an egg wash replacement like almond milk or a simple syrup glaze for brushing. The flavors will remain deliciously intact!
How can I make the plaits less sweet?
Reducing the brown sugar slightly or skipping the extra maple syrup drizzle after baking can tone down the sweetness without sacrificing flavor. A pinch more salt can also help balance the sweetness nicely.
What’s the best way to chop pecans for this recipe?
Chop pecans into small, even pieces to ensure they bake evenly and mix well throughout the filling. Avoid grinding them too finely because part of the charm is that satisfying nutty crunch in every bite.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing a batch of these Maple Pecan Plaits Recipe with loved ones. Each bite bursts with flaky pastry, warm spices, and the perfect harmony of maple and pecans that feels like a big, comforting hug. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these plaits are guaranteed to become a favorite that you come back to again and again. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself—you deserve this cozy delight in your kitchen!
Print
Maple Pecan Plaits Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 plaits (serves 8 as a dessert or snack)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Maple Pecan Plaits, a beautifully braided puff pastry treat filled with a sweet and spiced pecan mixture. Perfectly golden, flaky, and glazed with maple syrup, these plaits combine the rich flavors of autumn with an elegant presentation. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 sheets Puff Pastry, thawed but cold
Filling
- 1 cup Pecans, chopped
- 1/3 cup Maple Syrup
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 tablespoons Butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- Pinch of Salt
Finishing
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: Flaky salt or extra maple syrup for finishing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the plaits bake evenly and don’t stick.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the chopped pecans, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Set this flavorful mixture aside to let the flavors meld.
- Prepare Puff Pastry: Unroll the cold puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. If needed, use a rolling pin to gently thin out the sheets for easier braiding and a delicate crust.
- Assemble Plaits: Spoon the pecan filling down the center of each puff pastry sheet, leaving a margin on both sides. Cut diagonal strips along the edges on both sides and fold these strips over the filling in an alternating braided pattern to encase the filling beautifully.
- Bake: Transfer the braided plaits to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until puffed, golden, and cooked through.
- Finishing Touches: Once baked, brush the hot plaits with extra maple syrup for additional glaze and sprinkle flaky salt if desired to enhance flavor contrast.
- Serve: Allow the plaits to cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for a deliciously flaky treat.
Notes
- Use cold puff pastry for best puff and flakiness.
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before mixing.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
- The plaits can be made ahead and reheated gently in the oven.
- Serve with a drizzle of cream or vanilla yogurt for variation.
