Oh my goodness, let me tell you about pecan tassies! These little gems are like bite-sized pieces of heaven, with their buttery crusts and sweet, nutty filling. They remind me of cozy family gatherings where the scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air, and everyone gathers around the dessert table, drawn in by the irresistible aroma. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is! You don’t need fancy equipment, just a few basic ingredients and a mini muffin tin. Trust me, once you make these pecan tassies, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “yum!” They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a sweet treat to brighten your day. So, let’s dive into making these delightful pastries together!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base for our buttery pastry crust, giving it that tender texture.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s softened so it blends smoothly into the dough, creating that flaky crust we all love.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This adds just the right amount of sweetness to the crust, balancing the richness of the butter.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and brings everything together beautifully.
- 1 large egg: This is key for our filling, helping it set up perfectly while adding richness.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: These are the stars of the show! They add crunch and that signature nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: This brings a lovely depth of sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor of the tassies.
How to Prepare Pecan Tassies
Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making those delicious pecan tassies! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll love how they come together.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your tassies bake evenly. If you skip this step, you might end up with a soggy crust or uneven filling. So, let that oven get nice and toasty while you prepare the rest!
Prepare the Pastry Shells
Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until it forms a soft, slightly crumbly dough. It should feel a bit like playdough—soft but manageable. Next, take your mini muffin tin, and with your fingers, press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of each cup. Make sure to create a nice little shell that’s about a quarter-inch thick. This is where all that pecan goodness is going to sit, so don’t rush it! You want them to be even and well-formed.
Make the Pecan Filling
In a separate bowl, crack that large egg and whisk it until it’s frothy. Then, add in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans. Give it a good mix until everything is combined—this filling is what makes your tassies so irresistibly sweet and nutty! Don’t worry if it looks a bit runny; that’s how it should be. Just make sure the pecans are evenly distributed throughout for that delightful crunch in every bite.
Bake the Pecan Tassies
Now, it’s time to fill those pastry shells! Spoon the pecan mixture into each shell, filling them about three-quarters full to allow for rising. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the filling is set and the tops look golden brown. Once baked, let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before gently removing them. Trust me, letting them cool a bit helps them hold their shape! Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as you anticipate that first bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why making pecan tassies is a total game-changer! These little treats are not just delicious, but they also come with a handful of fantastic benefits. Here are just a few reasons you’ll adore this recipe:
- Quick Preparation: With just a 15-minute prep time, you can whip these up in no time! Perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a sweet fix.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery crust and sweet, nutty filling is simply irresistible. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for more!
- Versatile Treat: You can serve these at any occasion—holidays, parties, or just because! They’re a crowd-pleaser and can be enjoyed by everyone.
- Make-ahead Friendly: You can easily prepare these tassies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll be just as delightful the next day!
- Kid-Friendly: These little pastries are perfect for kids too! They love the sweet, nutty goodness, and they’re fun to eat!
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. No need for fancy stuff, just basic staples!
So, are you ready to impress your friends and family with these amazing pecan tassies? Trust me, they won’t last long on the dessert table!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your pecan tassies turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I’ve picked up along the way to ensure these little beauties shine:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh pecans will give your tassies a richer flavor and crunch. If you can, toast them lightly before adding to the filling for an extra depth of flavor!
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the pastry dough and the filling, be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough pastry shells or a filling that’s too dense. Just mix until everything is combined, and you’ll be golden!
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft to handle, pop it in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes. Chilling helps to firm it up, making it easier to press into the muffin tin and ensuring a flaky texture.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tassies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so start checking a couple of minutes before the recommended time. You want them golden brown on top, but not overbaked!
- Use a Toothpick Test: For the ultimate doneness check, insert a toothpick into the center of one tassie. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready to come out!
- Let Them Cool: Patience is key! Allow the tassies to cool in the tin for a few minutes before removing them. This helps them set and hold their shape better. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice note, or swap out some pecans for chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the best pecan tassies ever! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these delightful pecan tassies! While they’re undeniably a treat, it’s always nice to know what we’re indulging in, right? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for one tassie, based on standard ingredients:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, it’s all about balance, right? Enjoying a pecan tassie every now and then is a delicious way to treat yourself while still keeping it simple and satisfying!
FAQ Section
Got questions about pecan tassies? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you along your baking journey.
Can I make pecan tassies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pecan tassies are perfect for making a day in advance. Just prepare them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll still taste fantastic the next day!
How should I store leftover pecan tassies?
To keep your tassies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but they’re best enjoyed at room temperature.
Can I freeze pecan tassies?
Yes, you can! Just wrap each tassie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, and they’ll be ready to enjoy!
What if I don’t have mini muffin tins?
No problem! You can use regular muffin tins, but just keep in mind that the baking time might be a little longer. Alternatively, look for silicone molds, which can work beautifully for these little pastries!
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of pecans or want to switch things up, you could use walnuts or almonds instead. Just chop them up like you would with the pecans and follow the same instructions. Each nut will bring its unique flavor to your tassies!
Why did my tassies overflow during baking?
Oops! This can happen if you overfill the pastry shells. Make sure to fill them only about three-quarters full to avoid any overflow. Better safe than sorry, right?
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the other ingredients, like the baking powder (if you use any), are also gluten-free to keep everything safe and delicious!
Got more questions? Feel free to reach out! I’m here to make sure your pecan tassies turn out just right!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve got a batch of those delicious pecan tassies, let’s talk about how to store them so they stay fresh and tasty!
For storing leftovers, place your pecan tassies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep well for about 3 days, and I promise, they’re still delightful even after a little time! If you want to store them for a longer period, you can pop them in the refrigerator. Just be aware that they’re best enjoyed at room temperature, so you might want to let them sit out for a bit before diving in.
If you’re looking to keep them for even longer, freezing is a fantastic option! Individually wrap each tassie in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. They’ll be good for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take them out and thaw overnight in the fridge. No need to reheat—just let them warm up to room temperature, and they’ll be as delectable as when they were fresh! Trust me, that first bite will bring back all the cozy baking memories.
Print
Pecan Tassies: 7 Irresistible Bites of Pure Joy
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 tassies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan tassies are small, tart-like pastries filled with a sweet pecan mixture.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, butter, sugar, and salt until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom and sides of mini muffin tins.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg, then add brown sugar, vanilla, and pecans.
- Fill each pastry shell with the pecan mixture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until filling is set.
- Let cool before removing from the tin.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be made a day in advance.
- 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: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pecan tassies, dessert, pastries
