There is something utterly charming about these little bites of buttery, nutty goodness, which is why I absolutely adore sharing this Pecan Tassies Recipe with you. Imagine a delicate cream cheese crust nestling a rich, gooey filling bursting with toasted pecans and a splash of bourbon-infused sweetness. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that feel like the perfect little celebration. Whether you need a crowd-pleasing party treat or a cozy dessert to savor with a cup of tea, these pecan tassies never disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential, coming together to create a luscious filling surrounded by a tender, flaky crust. Every component plays its part—from the softened butter and cream cheese that give the crust its melt-in-your-mouth texture, to the brown sugar and maple syrup that add layers of sweetness and warmth.
- 1/2 cup butter (softened): Provides a rich, creamy base for the pastry, contributing to its delicate flakiness.
- 1 (3-oz) package cream cheese (softened): Adds a slight tang and silky smoothness that keeps the crust tender and flavorful.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the crust.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for the pastry that holds everything together perfectly.
- 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar: Brings a deep caramel sweetness to the filling, complementing the pecans beautifully.
- 2 large eggs: Give structure and richness to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted): Adds a luscious richness that makes the filling shine.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Infuses a warm, natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the nuts.
- 1 teaspoon bourbon (increase to up to 1 tablespoon to taste): Offers a subtle boozy kick that elevates the flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet notes with floral, comforting warmth.
- 1 pinch salt: Just enough to balance and bring out all the flavors.
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans (preferably lightly toasted): The star ingredient that adds crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor.
How to Make Pecan Tassies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
Start by creaming together the softened butter, cream cheese, and salt until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing just until combined to prevent overworking the dough. This step is crucial for achieving a delicate texture that’s light, but sturdy enough to hold all that delectable filling. Once the dough comes together, cover it and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours — do not skip this! The cooling solidifies the fat, making it easier to form perfect little crusts.
Step 2: Ready Your Baking Equipment
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 24-count miniature muffin pan to ensure your tassies release beautifully after baking. Having your oven at the right temperature and your pan prepared keeps everything moving smoothly once you’re ready to assemble.
Step 3: Shape the Pastry Shells
Divide the chilled dough into 24 equal balls. Press each ball into the bottom and gently up the sides of the muffin cups. Be mindful not to make the base too thin so it can hold the rich filling without leaking. Once all shells are formed, place the pan back into the refrigerator to keep the dough cool until filling.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until everything is fully blended into a smooth, glossy mixture. Lastly, fold in the finely chopped toasted pecans, which add crunch and depth to this luscious filling.
Step 5: Fill the Pastry Shells
Remove the pastry shells from the fridge and fill each one generously with the pecan filling. Using a piping bag or even a small spoon will help you fill them evenly and all the way to the top, which creates that perfect, slightly domed finish after baking. Any leftover filling can be baked separately in a small, greased ramekin — no waste here!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for the filling to puff up slightly, set firmly, and the crust to achieve a golden-brown edge. This step is where the magic happens — your kitchen will start smelling wonderfully nutty and sweet.
Step 7: Cool Before Enjoying
Once baked, transfer the pan to a cooling rack and let sit for five minutes before carefully removing the tassies from the pan. Allow them to cool completely on the rack; this helps the filling set fully and makes them easier to handle without breaking. Patience here is rewarded with each perfect bite.
How to Serve Pecan Tassies Recipe
Garnishes
Pecan tassies are charming on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate can bring an extra touch of elegance. Fresh whipped cream or a tiny dollop of crème fraîche adds lovely creaminess that pairs beautifully with the rich filling.
Side Dishes
These sweet treats are fantastic alongside a hot cup of coffee or rich, spiced tea. For holiday gatherings, serve them with a cheese platter featuring a sharp cheddar or tangy blue cheese — the contrast of flavors is unexpectedly delightful. They also make a delightful ending to a Thanksgiving meal without feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging your pecan tassies on a tiered dessert stand for an eye-catching display, perfect for parties or afternoon tea. Wrapping each in a small decorative paper liner or adding a festive ribbon around the tray instantly boosts presentation for gift-giving or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store pecan tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The pastry crust will remain tender, and the filling will keep its luscious texture, making these little delights just as enjoyable the next day.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, pecan tassies freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To refresh their warm, just-baked charm, place pecan tassies in a preheated 300°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. This gently revives the crust’s flakiness and warms the filling without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! Making the dough a day ahead and letting it chill in the refrigerator is actually ideal. It helps the flavors develop, and the dough will be easier to handle when forming the tassies.
Is bourbon necessary in the filling?
Bourbon adds a lovely depth and warmth to the flavor, but if you prefer, you can reduce the amount or omit it altogether. You could replace it with a splash of vanilla extract for extra aroma or keep it simple.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
While pecans are traditional and bring that signature nutty sweetness, feel free to experiment with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a unique twist. Just be sure to toast them lightly to bring out the best flavor.
What if I don’t have a miniature muffin pan?
A miniature muffin pan is perfect for bite-sized tassies, but if you don’t have one, a regular muffin tin can work too. Just expect larger tassies and adjust the baking time as needed, checking for a golden crust and set filling.
Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar contributes a rich, molasses-like flavor and moisture that white sugar can’t quite replicate. If you must substitute, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses along with white sugar to mimic that depth.
Final Thoughts
These Pecan Tassies Recipe are a true treasure to keep in your baking repertoire. Each step, from crafting the buttery crust to mixing the luscious filling, brings a homemade touch that’s sure to delight anyone lucky enough to enjoy them. Whether you’re sharing at a holiday party or sneaking a few with your afternoon tea, these tiny treats spread so much warmth and happiness. Go ahead and make a batch — your kitchen and your friends will thank you!
Print
Pecan Tassies Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 tassies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pecan Tassies are delightful bite-sized tarts featuring a tender cream cheese pastry filled with a rich, sweet pecan filling infused with hints of maple syrup, bourbon, and vanilla. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, these mini pecan pies offer a deliciously buttery and nutty treat that’s both flaky and gooey in every bite.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1 (3-oz) package cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Filling
- 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon bourbon (increase up to 1 tablespoon to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans (preferably lightly toasted)
Instructions
- Make pastry: Cream the softened butter, cream cheese, and 1/4 teaspoon salt together in a medium mixing bowl until smooth and combined. Gradually beat in the all-purpose flour on medium speed just until the dough forms, being careful not to overmix. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours until firm, as chilling is essential for handling and texture.
- Prep for baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 24-count miniature muffin pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the tassies after baking.
- Form pastry shells: Remove the chilled dough and roll it into 24 equal-sized balls. Place each ball into the prepared muffin cups and press evenly into the bottom and up the sides to form a shell, taking care not to make the bottom too thin. Return the pan to the refrigerator to keep the dough firm before filling.
- Prepare filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the light brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans to distribute evenly throughout the filling.
- Fill pastry shells: Take the refrigerated muffin pan out and fill each pastry shell with the pecan filling using a piping bag, a zip-top bag with a snipped corner, or a teaspoon. Fill each shell fully to the top for the best presentation and flavor. If there is any leftover filling, bake it separately in a lightly greased ramekin.
- Bake tassies: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is puffed, set, and the pastry edges have turned a golden brown color.
- Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let it sit on a cooling rack for 5 minutes. Then carefully remove the tassies from the pan and transfer them to the cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Chilling the pastry dough for at least 2 hours is critical to develop a tender texture and make it easier to handle.
- Lightly toasting the pecans before chopping enhances their flavor, but this step is optional.
- If you prefer a stronger bourbon flavor, you may increase the bourbon to 1 tablespoon as indicated.
- Store leftover tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These mini tarts can be made ahead and frozen before baking; just thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
