Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Rub in the chilled butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 2: Add the egg yolk and ice water, mixing gently until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan. Blind bake with weights for 12 minutes.
Step 4: While the crust bakes, whisk together the maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and half of the chopped pecans in a small bowl.
Step 5: Arrange the sliced pears in a decorative fan pattern over the bottom of the par-baked tart shell.
Step 6: Pour the maple and pecan mixture evenly over the pears, ensuring all the fruit is lightly coated.
Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining pecans over the top of the tart for added crunch and visual appeal.
Step 8: Bake the maple pecan pear tart for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the pears are tender. Cool before serving.