Maple Walnut Cream
Maple Walnut Cream is a rich, sweet dessert with the warm flavors of maple and crunch of walnuts, perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In the top of a double boiler over boiling water, scald the maple syrup and 1 3/4 cups of milk.
- Combine the remaining milk, cornstarch, and salt in a bowl.
- Gradually add the mixture to the syrup and milk in the double boiler.
- Cook and stir until thickened, about 25 minutes.
- Add a small amount of the hot mixture to the beaten eggs to temper them.
- Return all to the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour into serving dishes and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of heavy cream and milk instead of just milk. If walnuts are unavailable or if you prefer a different nut, pecans are a great substitute. Stirring continuously while cooking helps prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan. For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Maple Walnut Cream chilled or at room temperature, topped with additional chopped walnuts for crunch. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. For a delightful dessert experience, consider serving it alongside Nanny's Congo Bars for a sweet treat combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired temperature. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Walnut Cream contains roughly 571 calories, with 5g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1336mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sugar-free maple syrup in this recipe?
While you can use sugar-free maple syrup, it may alter the flavor and texture of the cream. Real maple syrup provides a unique richness that is hard to replicate, so consider this if you're aiming for authentic taste.
What can I use instead of cornstarch for thickening?
If you need a substitute for cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. Both alternatives will thicken the mixture similarly, but may slightly affect the final texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe can be made vegetarian by omitting the eggs. You can use a plant-based egg substitute or simply skip them; the cream will still thicken, though it may be slightly less rich.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).