Oh my goodness, let me tell you about pecan tassies! These little gems are like a bite-sized hug filled with rich, sweet goodness. I remember the first time I had them at a family gathering—my aunt brought out a tray, and I was instantly hooked! The buttery crust combined with the nutty, caramel-like filling creates a texture that’s just divine. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why pecan tassies are always a crowd favorite!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Prepare Pecan Tassies
Getting ready to whip up some pecan tassies is a breeze! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making these little delights all the time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of heavenly tassies in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Crust
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your pecan tassies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While the oven is warming up, let’s get that crust ready! In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Use a fork, pastry cutter, or your fingers to mix everything until it’s crumbly—almost like wet sand. You want it to hold together when pressed. Now, take this mixture and press it into the bottom and up the sides of your mini muffin tins. Make sure you press firmly so the crust holds its shape while baking!
Prepare the Filling
Now onto the delicious filling! In another bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, packed brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. I usually go for a nice, smooth consistency here. Once that’s mixed, gently fold in the chopped pecans. This is where the magic happens—the pecans add that delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet filling!
Bake and Cool
Time to bring it all together! Carefully pour the pecan filling into each crust, filling them about three-quarters full. You don’t want to overfill, or they’ll spill over while baking. Pop your muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the filling is set and the tops are lightly golden. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool in the tins for a few minutes before attempting to remove them. Trust me, they’ll be super delicate straight out of the oven! After cooling slightly, use a butter knife to gently loosen the edges, then flip the tin to release those little beauties onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here; they’ll be worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- They’re incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers!
- The rich, sweet flavor of the pecan filling is absolutely irresistible.
- Perfectly sized for gatherings—everyone loves a bite-sized treat!
- You can make them ahead of time, so you’re not rushing at the last minute.
- They’re a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie, with a fun, portable shape.
- Each tassie is a little package of joy that brings a smile to anyone’s face!
Tips for Success
Making pecan tassies is a joyous experience, but a few pro tips can make all the difference in ensuring you achieve that perfect batch every time. Here’s what I’ve learned through my own kitchen adventures!
- Soften, Don’t Melt: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature, not melted. This helps create a flaky, tender crust that holds together beautifully.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can be sneaky! Start checking your tassies at the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking. They should be set but still soft in the center.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and pecans make a noticeable difference in flavor. If possible, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling to enhance their nutty aroma!
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your filling, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture, and we want that melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
- Patience is Key: After baking, let them cool in the tins for a few minutes before removing. This allows the filling to firm up a bit, making them easier to handle.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t be afraid to play around! Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist, or even a splash of bourbon for a little kick!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating pecan tassies that are not only delicious but also beautifully crafted. Happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your pecan tassies! Here are a few delightful variations that will keep your taste buds dancing:
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Tassies: Who doesn’t love chocolate? Just fold in some mini chocolate chips into the filling for a rich, decadent twist. The combination of chocolate and pecans is simply heavenly!
- Nutty Mix: Instead of just pecans, why not try a mix of nuts? Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can add an exciting flavor profile and texture to your tassies.
- Spiced Pecan Tassies: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. This is especially nice in the fall or winter months when you want that extra comforting touch!
- Bourbon Pecan Tassies: For a little adult flair, mix in a tablespoon of bourbon with the filling. It adds a rich depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pecans.
- Maple Pecan Tassies: Substitute maple syrup for the corn syrup in the filling for a lovely, caramel-like sweetness that’s perfect for those who adore maple flavors!
- Fruit-Infused Tassies: Add a handful of dried cranberries or cherries to the filling for a pop of fruity tartness that complements the rich pecans beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas! Each variation brings its own unique character to the classic pecan tassies we love. Have fun experimenting and discovering your perfect combination!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked up a delicious batch of pecan tassies, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and delightful for as long as possible. Storing them properly is key! Just let your tassies cool completely before moving them. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. They’ll last at room temperature for about 3 days—if they last that long, because trust me, they’re hard to resist!
If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can pop them in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before you dive in for the best flavor and texture!
Now, if you find yourself with leftovers and you want to enjoy them warm, reheating is super simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the tassies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-10 minutes until they’re warmed through. This little trick brings back that lovely, gooey filling and crispy crust—yum!
So there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your pecan tassies whenever the craving strikes. Happy munching!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of our delightful pecan tassies! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this a tasty estimate:
- Serving Size: 1 tassie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
These little treats are definitely a sweet indulgence, but when enjoyed in moderation, they can be a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire! Just remember, it’s always good to balance them out with some wholesome meals throughout the day. Enjoy every bite of your pecan tassies!
FAQ Section
Got questions about pecan tassies? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve heard, along with my best answers to help you out:
Can I substitute the corn syrup?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use maple syrup or honey instead of corn syrup. Just keep in mind that these substitutes might alter the flavor slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!
Are there gluten-free options for the crust?
Yes! You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the crust. Just check that it’s a good blend that works for baking. I’ve tried it, and they turn out just as tasty!
How can I store pecan tassies?
Store your pecan tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze pecan tassies?
You bet! Just let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bring them back to room temperature.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you want to switch things up, feel free to use walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and texture to the tassies!
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! Pecan tassies are perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake them a day or two in advance, just store them properly to keep them fresh. They actually taste even better after a day as the flavors meld!
Why did my tassies overflow while baking?
Oops! This can happen if you overfill the crusts. Be sure to fill them about three-quarters full to allow room for the filling to expand while baking. It’s a good idea to check them a bit early to avoid any spillage!
I hope this FAQ section helps clarify any questions you might have! If anything else pops into your mind, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy baking with your pecan tassies!
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Pecan Tassies: 5 Irresistible Tricks for Perfect Baking
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 tassies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan tassies are small, sweet tarts filled with a rich pecan filling.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, butter, sugar, and salt until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of mini muffin tins.
- In another bowl, whisk together egg, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour the filling into each crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until set.
- Let cool before removing from tins.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Serve at room temperature.
- Can be made ahead of time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tassie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pecan tassies, dessert, tarts, baking
