Mini Pecan Tarts: The Perfect Bite-Sized Dessert for Any Occasion

Mini Pecan Tarts are a delightful treat that never fails to impress at gatherings and celebrations. These bite-sized wonders are not only visually appealing but also pack a punch of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Originating from the Southern United States, pecan tarts have a rich history tied to the region’s abundant pecan harvests, making them a staple during holidays and special occasions. I love how the buttery crust perfectly complements the sweet, gooey filling, creating a harmonious blend of textures that is simply irresistible.

People adore Mini Pecan Tarts for their convenience and versatility; they are easy to make ahead of time and can be served warm or at room temperature. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just looking for a sweet snack, these tarts are sure to be a hit. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that brings together tradition and taste in every bite!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling)
• 1 large egg, beaten (for filling)

Preparing the Tart Crust

Let’s start by making the tart crust, which is the foundation of our mini pecan tarts. It’s a simple process, and I promise it’s worth it!

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed.
2. Add 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Next, add 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 large egg yolk to the mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together. If it seems too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it holds together.
4. Once the dough is formed, shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the butter firm up and make the dough easier to roll out.

Preparing the Filling

While the dough is chilling, let’s prepare the delicious pecan filling that will make these tarts irresistible!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of chopped pecans, 1/2 cup of light corn syrup, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat 1 large egg until it’s well mixed. Then, add the beaten egg to the pecan mixture and stir until everything is combined. Set this aside while we roll out the dough.

Rolling Out the Dough

Now that our dough has chilled, it’s time to roll it out and shape it into mini tart shells.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator. Roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Make sure to keep the surface and the rolling pin floured to prevent sticking.
3. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass (about 3 inches in diameter), cut out circles from the rolled dough. You should be able to get about 12-15 circles, depending on how thick you rolled the dough.
4. Gently press each dough circle into the cups of a mini muffin tin, making sure to press it down into the bottom and up the sides to form a shell. If the dough tears, just patch it up with your fingers.

Assembling the Tarts

With our tart shells ready, it’s time to fill them with that luscious pecan mixture!

1. Using a spoon, fill each tart shell with the pecan filling, being careful not to overfill them. Leave a little space at the top, as the filling will puff up slightly while baking.
2. Once all the shells are filled, give the muffin tin a gentle tap on the counter to settle the filling and remove any air bubbles.

Baking the Tarts

Now comes the exciting part—baking our mini pecan tarts!

1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the tops are golden brown

Conclusion:

In summary, these Mini Pecan Tarts are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their friends and family with a delightful dessert that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. The combination of buttery crust, rich pecan filling, and a hint of sweetness creates a perfect balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re the ideal treat for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy night in. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these tarts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. You can also experiment with variations by adding chocolate chips, a splash of bourbon, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet touch. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative! I truly believe that once you try this Mini Pecan Tarts recipe, you’ll be hooked. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful baking adventure. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how your tarts turned out and any unique twists you added. Happy baking!

Print