Name: Mini Pecan Pie Tarts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pie crust Pie crust (store-bought or homemade); 1/4 cup Corn syrup (light); 1/3 cup Brown sugar; 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted); 1 egg Egg (lightly beaten); 2 tablespoons Heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 1/3 cup Pecans (roughly chopped)

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There’s something incredibly special about sharing homemade desserts, and Mini Pecan Pie Tarts are the perfect treat for any occasion. I still remember the first time I made these delightful little tarts. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the air was filled with the scent of falling leaves. I wanted to recreate that warm, cozy feeling in my kitchen. With the golden pecans and sweet, gooey filling, these tarts bring back memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or just want a sweet treat to enjoy, these tarts are sure to impress. They’re small enough to pop in your mouth but packed with flavor that will leave you wanting more.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

The Appeal of This Mini Pecan Pie Tarts

Perfect for Any Occasion

What I love most about Mini Pecan Pie Tarts is their versatility. They can be the star of your dessert table during the holidays or a simple indulgence after dinner. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing, and let’s face it, who doesn’t love a mini dessert?

Rich, Decadent Flavor

The combination of pecans, brown sugar, and corn syrup creates a rich, caramel-like filling that’s simply irresistible. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness. It’s comfort food at its best!

Simple Ingredients

One of the best things about this recipe is that you probably have most of the ingredients on hand. The pie crust, whether store-bought or homemade, pairs beautifully with the filling, making it a straightforward dessert that doesn’t require fancy components.

Fun to Make with Family

These tarts are also a great way to involve the kids in the kitchen. Rolling out the dough and filling each tart can be a fun family activity. It’s a chance to create lasting memories while whipping up a delicious treat.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover tarts (though I doubt you will!), they store well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed for days. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up, and voila—just like fresh!

Essential Ingredients for Mini Pecan Pie Tarts

When it comes to making Mini Pecan Pie Tarts, the ingredients are simple yet essential for that perfect flavor. Each component works harmoniously to create a delightful treat. The star here is undoubtedly the pecans. Their rich, buttery flavor is balanced by the sweetness of corn syrup and brown sugar. The pie crust holds everything together, providing a crisp base. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these tarts so special.

1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade): This is the foundation of your tart. A buttery, flaky crust provides the perfect contrast to the sweet filling.
1/4 cup light corn syrup: This ingredient gives the filling its signature sweetness and gooey texture, binding everything together beautifully.
1/3 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like flavor that enhances the nuttiness of the pecans.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Brings richness to the filling, ensuring every bite is decadent and satisfying.
1 egg (lightly beaten): Acts as a binder for the filling, helping everything set perfectly during baking.
2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adds creaminess to the filling, making it smooth and luxurious.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: While it’s not allowed, this ingredient infuses the tart with a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1/3 cup roughly chopped pecans: The star ingredient, these provide texture and enhance the nutty flavor of the tarts.

Recipe Directions for Mini Pecan Pie Tarts

Making Mini Pecan Pie Tarts is a straightforward process that comes together beautifully. Follow along as we guide you step by step through crafting these delightful treats.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This temperature is perfect for achieving a golden crust while ensuring the filling cooks through.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pie dough into a 12-inch circle. Make sure it’s not too thick, as you want a delicate crust that won’t overpower the filling.
Using a 3-inch cookie cutter, cut out 12 circles from the rolled-out dough. This size is ideal for mini tarts, ensuring just the right amount of filling.
Carefully place each dough circle in a muffin cavity, filling a 12-count muffin pan. Gently stretch the dough up the sides if needed, so it fits snugly.
Chill the muffin pan in the refrigerator while preparing the filling. This helps to keep the crust flaky when baked.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Mix together until everything is well combined and smooth.
Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This ensures that every tart has plenty of nutty goodness.
Remove the muffin pan from the refrigerator and evenly distribute the filling among the tart shells. Be careful not to overfill to prevent spilling over the edges during baking.
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the filling is set and the tops are nicely golden.
Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows them to firm up a bit before transferring.
Carefully remove the tarts from the muffin pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step ensures they’re perfectly set before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Even Baking: Make sure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even baking. An oven thermometer can help if you’re unsure about your oven’s temperature.
Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain its structure and prevents shrinking.
Watch the Fillings: Keep an eye on the tarts while they bake. If they puff up too much, they may need a few extra minutes to firm up.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds.

Making Adjustments

When it comes to Mini Pecan Pie Tarts, there’s always room for creativity. Here are some tips to help you adjust the recipe to your liking.

Storage: Store leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the tarts after baking. Just ensure they’re completely cooled, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to two months.
Serving Suggestions: These tarts are perfect for gatherings. Pair them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add chocolate chips to the filling for a fun twist!
Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle a few whole pecans on top before baking. It adds a lovely touch!

Side Dish Ideas for Mini Pecan Pie Tarts

Serving Mini Pecan Pie Tarts is just as important as making them. Here are some delightful ideas to accompany your tarts:

Coffee: Pair these tarts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a latte for a cozy dessert experience.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance the richness of the tarts. Consider using seasonal fruits for a fresh touch.
Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a lightness to the tarts and enhances their sweetness.
Special Occasions: These tarts are perfect for Thanksgiving or holiday parties. They also make a great addition to potlucks or family gatherings.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Mini Pecan Pie Tarts ahead of time. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, then store the unbaked tarts in the fridge for up to one day. When you’re ready to serve, bake them fresh for about 25 to 30 minutes.

If you’re looking for a substitute for corn syrup, you can use honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still yield a delicious filling.

Store any leftover Mini Pecan Pie Tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days. Just warm them up a bit in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!

Yes, you can freeze the tarts after baking. Ensure they cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months. Just thaw and warm them when you’re ready to indulge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mini Pecan Pie Tarts are a wonderful blend of rich flavors, delightful textures, and easy preparation. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy night at home, they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. I encourage you to try making these tarts and experience their deliciousness for yourself. You might just find your new favorite dessert!