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
Scale
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.
