Name: English Walnut Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 eggs; ¼ tsp salt; ¾ cup white sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ¾ cup light corn syrup; 1 cup Walnuts; ¼ cup butter; 1 deep dish pie crust

This walnut pie is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, bringing a rich and nutty flavor that's perfect for any occasion. It's simple to make and sure to impress your guests with its unique taste and beautiful presentation.

Photos of English Walnut Pie Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you might need to pick up a few items that aren't commonly found in every kitchen. Light corn syrup adds the necessary sweetness and helps create the pie's smooth texture, while walnuts provide the signature flavor and crunch. Make sure to grab a pre-made deep dish pie crust for convenience.

Ingredients For English Walnut Pie

Eggs: Essential for binding the filling and adding richness.

Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.

White sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in caramelization.

Vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with a warm, aromatic flavor.

Light corn syrup: Provides sweetness and helps achieve a smooth texture.

Walnuts: The star ingredient, adding crunch and a distinct nutty flavor.

Butter: Adds richness and depth to the filling.

Deep dish pie crust: Serves as the vessel for the delicious filling, saving time on preparation.

One reader, Helena Bullock says:

This English walnut pie recipe is a delightful treat! The filling is rich and perfectly sweet, with a wonderful crunch from the walnuts. The buttery crust complements the flavors beautifully. It's a hit at every gathering and so easy to make. Highly recommend!

Helena Bullock

Techniques Required for Making English Walnut Pie

How to beat eggs: Use a whisk or electric mixer to beat the eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy. How to melt butter: Place the butter in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in the microwave in short intervals, or melt it in a small saucepan over low heat on the stove. How to preheat oven: Set your oven to the desired temperature (400 degrees F) and allow it to reach that temperature before placing the pie inside. How to reduce oven temperature: After the initial baking period, adjust the oven temperature down to 300 degrees F and continue baking as directed.

How To Make English Walnut Pie

This English walnut pie is a classic dessert that’s full of nutty walnut flavors complemented by ingredients that you can readily find in your pantry.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3eggs
¼tspsalt
¾cupwhite sugar
2tspvanilla extract
¾cuplight corn syrup
1cupwalnuts,chopped
¼cupbutter
1deep dish pie crust,9-inch

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
Beat the eggs in a large bowl. Mix in sugar, salt, vanilla, and corn syrup. Melt the butter and whisk it into the egg mixture. Stir in the nuts. Pour filling into pie shell.
Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C), and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 370.63kcal
Fat: 14.97g
Saturated Fat: 6.93g
Trans Fat: 0.24g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.70g
Carbohydrates: 58.25g
Fiber: 0.55g
Sugar: 43.46g
Protein: 3.01g
Cholesterol: 75.24mg
Sodium: 233.54mg
Calcium: 18.59mg
Potassium: 49.32mg
Iron: 0.60mg
Vitamin A: 74.33µg
Vitamin C: 0.01mg

Crucial Technique Tip for English Walnut Pie Recipe

To ensure a perfectly set filling, allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps the eggs and corn syrup mixture to firm up, giving you clean, beautiful slices.

Time-Saving Tips for English Walnut Pie Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and chop the walnuts and melt the butter ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a pre-made pie crust: Save time by using a store-bought deep dish pie crust instead of making one from scratch.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) before you begin mixing ingredients to ensure it's ready when you are.

Mix efficiently: Use an electric mixer to quickly beat the eggs and combine the sugar, salt, vanilla, and corn syrup.

Set a timer: Use a timer to keep track of the initial 10-minute bake and the subsequent 35-45 minutes at 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).

Substitute Ingredients For English Walnut Pie Recipe

eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This works well as a binder in baking.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral profile.
white sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
light corn syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener and can be used in the same quantity, though it will add a distinct flavor.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a good alternative.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same quantity and provides a subtle coconut flavor.
deep dish pie crust - Substitute with graham cracker crust: A graham cracker crust offers a different texture and flavor, adding a sweet and slightly crunchy base.

Presenting Your English Walnut Pie

Use a delicate crust: Ensure the pie crust is perfectly baked and golden brown. A flaky, buttery crust will provide a delightful contrast to the rich filling.
Create a walnut garnish: Toast a few extra walnuts and arrange them artfully on top of the pie. This adds a visual appeal and enhances the nutty flavor.
Drizzle with caramel: Lightly drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the top of the pie. This adds a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream: Add a small, perfectly piped dollop of whipped cream on the side of each slice. This provides a creamy contrast to the crunchy walnuts.
Add a mint sprig: Place a fresh mint sprig next to the whipped cream. This adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma.
Use a fine china plate: Serve the pie on a fine china plate to elevate the presentation. The elegance of the plate complements the sophistication of the dish.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar. This adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Slice with precision: Use a sharp knife to cut clean, even slices. This ensures each portion looks as good as it tastes.
Serve with a side of vanilla ice cream: A small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a creamy, cold contrast to the warm pie.
Finish with a touch of gold leaf: For the ultimate touch of luxury, add a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of each slice. This makes the dish truly fit for a Michelin-starred presentation.

Essential Tools for Making English Walnut Pie

Oven: Used to bake the pie at the specified temperatures.
Large bowl: Used for beating the eggs and mixing all the ingredients together.
Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the sugar, corn syrup, and walnuts accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt and vanilla extract.
Pie dish: Holds the deep dish pie crust and the filling during baking.
Spatula: Used to stir the nuts into the mixture and to scrape the mixture into the pie shell.
Microwave or stovetop: Used to melt the butter before adding it to the egg mixture.
Cooling rack: Used to cool the pie after it has finished baking.

Storing and Freezing Your English Walnut Pie

Let the walnut pie cool completely before storing or freezing. This usually takes about 2-3 hours at room temperature.
To store the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Label the pie with the date and contents. Frozen walnut pie can be stored for up to 2 months.
To thaw a frozen pie, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw the pie at room temperature, as this can cause the crust to become soggy.
If you want to reheat the pie, remove any plastic wrap or foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through. Be careful not to overheat the pie, as this can cause the filling to become runny.
If you have any leftover pie filling, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use it as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal.

How To Reheat Leftover English Walnut Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover english walnut pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the crust from browning too quickly and the filling from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie is heated through.
If you prefer a crispier crust, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will allow the crust to crisp up nicely while still keeping the filling moist and delicious.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Cut the leftover pie into individual slices and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat each slice for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the filling to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your english walnut pie slices. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices in the basket, making sure they don't overlap. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the filling is warm.
For a more indulgent treat, try warming up your leftover pie slices in a skillet with a pat of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat and place the slices in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert.

Fascinating Facts About English Walnut Pie

A unique aspect of this English walnut pie recipe is its use of light corn syrup as a sweetener, which helps to create a smooth and glossy filling. This ingredient is often used in pecan pie recipes as well, giving the pie a similar texture and sweetness.

Is Making English Walnut Pie at Home Cost-Effective?

This english walnut pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like eggs, sugar, and walnuts are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The deep dish pie crust and light corn syrup might add a bit to the cost, but overall, it remains budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is English Walnut Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?

This English walnut pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in sugar, with ¾ cup of white sugar and ¾ cup of corn syrup, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The pie contains a significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.
The recipe uses a deep-dish pie crust, which is likely made with refined flour and additional fat, further increasing the calorie and fat content of the dish.

While walnuts are a nutritious ingredient, providing healthy fats, protein, and fiber, the other components of the recipe overshadow their health benefits.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar and corn syrup used in the filling, or replace them with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, which have a lower glycemic index
Use a whole-wheat or nut-based pie crust to increase the fiber content and reduce the amount of refined flour
Replace some or all of the butter with a healthier alternative, such as coconut oil or Greek yogurt
Incorporate additional nutrient-dense ingredients, such as dried fruits or seeds, to boost the pie's nutritional value
Serve smaller portions of the pie and pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added nutrients and balance

Editor's Opinion on This English Walnut Pie Recipe

This English walnut pie recipe is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering a rich, nutty flavor with a satisfying crunch. The combination of light corn syrup and butter creates a luscious, caramel-like filling that pairs beautifully with the earthy walnuts. The use of vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness, while the salt balances the flavors perfectly. Baking at a high temperature initially ensures a crisp crust, while reducing the heat allows the filling to set without overcooking. This pie is a wonderful addition to any dessert table, sure to impress with its unique taste and texture.

Enhance Your English Walnut Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts pairs beautifully with the sweet and nutty flavors of the English Walnut Pie.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Picture tender carrots bathed in a luscious maple syrup glaze. The natural sweetness of the carrots, enhanced by the maple, complements the rich, nutty essence of the English Walnut Pie.

Cranberry Orange Relish: Envision a vibrant cranberry and orange relish, bursting with tart and citrusy notes. This refreshing side dish cuts through the sweetness of the English Walnut Pie, offering a zesty contrast.

Butternut Squash Soup: Think of a velvety butternut squash soup, subtly spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon. Its creamy texture and warm flavors create a harmonious balance with the crunchy, sweet English Walnut Pie.

Apple and Fennel Salad: Visualize a crisp apple and fennel salad, tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette. The refreshing crunch and slight anise flavor of the fennel provide a delightful contrast to the rich, nutty English Walnut Pie.

Delicious Alternatives to English Walnut Pie

Pecan Pie: Dive into the classic southern delight with a rich, gooey filling of pecans and corn syrup. This pie is perfect for any dessert table and pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Maple Walnut Tart: Experience the sweet and nutty flavors of maple syrup combined with crunchy walnuts in a delicate tart shell. This elegant dessert is sure to impress your guests.

Chocolate Walnut Brownies: Indulge in fudgy chocolate brownies studded with crunchy walnuts. These brownies are a perfect blend of rich chocolate and nutty goodness, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Walnut Banana Bread: Enjoy a moist and flavorful banana bread with the added crunch of walnuts. This comforting treat is perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Walnut Caramel Tart: Savor the decadent combination of caramel and walnuts in a buttery tart crust. This dessert is a showstopper with its rich, sweet, and nutty flavors.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with English Walnut Pie Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with Stuffed Mushrooms. These delightful bites feature mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked to perfection, resulting in a creamy and flavorful filling that pairs beautifully with the earthy mushroom base. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an elegant touch. Perfect for any gathering, these Stuffed Mushrooms are sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with Bruschetta. This classic appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar enhance the flavors, creating a refreshing and zesty bite. The crunchy bread contrasts beautifully with the juicy tomato mixture, making Bruschetta a delightful start to any meal. Serve it at your next gathering for a taste of the Mediterranean.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a burst of flavor. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main course. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that is sure to impress. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. The filling is cooked until tender and then stuffed into the peppers. The peppers are then baked until they are soft and the filling is bubbling. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Why trust this English Walnut Pie Recipe:

This English walnut pie recipe is a timeless classic, cherished for its rich, nutty flavor and perfect balance of sweetness. With simple, wholesome ingredients like eggs, walnuts, and butter, it promises a homemade taste that’s hard to beat. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof baking experience, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust in the quality of this recipe, as it has been meticulously crafted and tested to deliver a delightful dessert every time.

Share your thoughts on this delectable English Walnut Pie recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might be slightly different.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the filling is set and doesn't jiggle much when you gently shake the pie. The top should be golden brown. If you're unsure, you can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this pie a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then cover it and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Do I need to toast the walnuts before adding them to the filling?

Toasting the walnuts is optional, but it can enhance their flavor. If you choose to toast them, spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are fragrant.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Definitely! A store-bought deep dish pie crust works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure it's thawed if it's frozen before you pour in the filling.