If you’re searching for a delightful little treat that bursts with buttery, nutty goodness in every bite, then you’ve come to the right place. This Pecan Tassies Recipe is a timeless classic that combines a tender cream cheese crust with a rich, gooey pecan filling, making each mini tartlet a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday gathering or just craving a sweet snack, these pecan delights will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple yet crucial for achieving the perfect texture and taste in your Pecan Tassies Recipe. Each one plays a key role, from the creamy base to the sweet nutty filling that makes these treats so addictive.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, room temperature, divided): Provides a rich, flaky texture to the crust and adds buttery flavor to the filling.
- Cream cheese (4 oz., room temperature): Essential for tender, melt-in-your-mouth pastry that holds its shape beautifully.
- Flour (1 ¼ cups): Creates the structure for the dough, ensuring the tassies have just the right crumb.
- Chopped pecans (¾ cup, divided): Brings a crunchy, nutty contrast inside the filling and as a garnish.
- Brown sugar (¾ cup, packed): Adds sweetness with depth and a slight molasses undertone that complements the pecans perfectly.
- Large egg (1): Binds the filling ingredients together, helping it set during baking.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Elevates the flavor profile with warm, aromatic notes.
- Salt (â…› teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the rich flavors.
How to Make Pecan Tassies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by blending 7 tablespoons of room temperature butter with the cream cheese until you get a smooth, creamy mixture. This is the base for that wonderfully tender crust. Then, fold in the flour until a cohesive dough forms. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill. Chilling the dough makes it easier to work with and helps those little tart shells keep their shape when baking.
Step 2: Ready the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a mini muffin pan thoroughly. A well-greased pan ensures the tassies will lift out easily once baked and beautifully intact.
Step 3: Shape the Tassie Shells
Divide the chilled dough into 24 equal pieces — just under a tablespoon each works perfectly. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and press it gently into the muffin cups, spreading it evenly along the bottom and up the sides to form tiny cups. These will cradle the luscious filling, so make sure they’re evenly pressed and ready.
Step 4: Mix the Filling Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, egg, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth. This mixture is what gives your filling that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and luscious texture.
Step 5: Add the Pecans
Reserve 3 tablespoons of chopped pecans to sprinkle on top later for a lovely crunch and nutty finish. Stir the remaining pecans into the filling mixture, folding them evenly throughout.
Step 6: Fill the Tassies
Carefully spoon about a teaspoon of the pecan filling into each dough-lined cup. The mixture should fill the cups nicely without overflowing. Then sprinkle the reserved pecans on top of each tart for that perfect finishing touch that’ll impress everyone.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the muffin pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. You’ll want to watch for a golden brown crust and a firmly set filling. The tassies will puff just a little and develop that irresistible caramelized pecan aroma.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the tassies rest in the pan on a cooling rack for about 10 minutes to firm up. Then carefully remove them from the pan and transfer to the rack to cool completely. This step prevents any sogginess and lets all the flavors deepen and meld beautifully.
How to Serve Pecan Tassies Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Pecan Tassies Recipe really pop, consider topping with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Fresh whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a heavenly touch that guests will rave about.
Side Dishes
Because these little gems are already rich and flavorful, they pair wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a cup of strong coffee, bold black tea, or even a glass of sweet dessert wine. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or citrus segments add a refreshing counterbalance to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your pecan tassies on a tiered dessert stand for an elegant presentation, perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. You can also place each tassie in decorative paper liners that match your occasion’s theme, turning these bites into charming edible gifts or party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pecan Tassies stay fresh for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their crisp edges and gooey centers beautifully, so you can savor these treats well after baking.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, these tassies freeze incredibly well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature to enjoy as though fresh.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked warmth and gooey filling, gently reheat pecan tassies in a low oven (around 300 degrees) for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can affect texture, but in a pinch, short bursts of microwave heat work as well.
FAQs
Can I make pecan tassies without cream cheese?
The cream cheese is key to that tender, rich crust in this recipe. Substituting it might change the texture significantly, so it’s best to stick with the original ingredients for the authentic experience.
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts make a great alternative and bring their own unique flavor and crunch. Just be sure to chop them finely to fit nicely in the mini tassie cups.
How do I prevent the crust from shrinking?
Chilling the dough properly before baking and pressing it firmly into the pan helps prevent shrinking. Also, avoid stretching the dough as you form the cups, which can cause it to pull back during baking.
Are these tassies gluten-free?
This recipe calls for regular flour, but you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Results may vary, so choose a blend with xanthan gum for better structure.
Can I make pecan tassies in larger muffin tins?
While mini muffin tins produce perfectly bite-sized treats, you can bake these in larger tins; just adjust the dough and filling amounts accordingly and extend baking time to ensure the center sets without burning the edges.
Final Thoughts
Making this Pecan Tassies Recipe isn’t just baking; it’s crafting little bites of joy that bring smiles every time. Once you taste the harmony of flaky crust and luscious pecan filling, you’ll understand why these charming tarts are a beloved favorite. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the cozy kitchen vibe, and share this wonderful treat with friends and family who will surely ask for the recipe again and again.
Print
Pecan Tassies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
- Total Time: 42-45 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pecan Tassies are delightful mini pecan tarts featuring a buttery cream cheese crust filled with a sweet, nutty pecan filling. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or anytime you crave a rich, nutty dessert with a tender, flaky crust.
Ingredients
Crust
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature (divided)
- 4 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
Filling
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- â…› teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup chopped pecans (divided: 3 tablespoons reserved for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a medium bowl, mix together 7 tablespoons of unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
- Shape the crust: Divide the chilled dough into 24 equal pieces, each slightly less than a tablespoon. Roll each piece into a ball and place into the muffin tin cups. Press the dough evenly across the bottom and up the sides of each cup to form a small crust shell.
- Make the filling: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, egg, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Add pecans: Reserve 3 tablespoons of chopped pecans for topping. Stir the remaining chopped pecans into the brown sugar mixture.
- Fill the cups: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the pecan filling into each crust-lined muffin cup. Sprinkle the reserved chopped pecans on top of each filled cup for a nice finish.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and serve: Allow the tassies to cool in the pan on a cooling rack for 10 minutes. Then remove them from the pan and let them cool completely on the rack before serving.
Notes
- Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth dough.
- Press the dough gently but firmly to avoid thin, fragile crusts.
- Mini muffin pans work best for uniform, bite-sized tassies.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
