There’s something undeniably comforting about bite-sized treats that are both elegant and approachable, and Pecan Tassies are exactly that. These miniature pecan pies offer all the rich, buttery flavor of a traditional pecan pie in a dainty, perfectly portioned form. They are ideal for a cozy evening at home, a festive holiday gathering, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift during the holiday season.
The inspiration for Pecan Tassies comes from Southern culinary traditions, where pecan pies have long been a centerpiece of celebrations, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. Miniaturizing them into tassies allows everyone to enjoy the sweet, nutty indulgence without the commitment of a full pie. Generations of families have perfected this bite-sized delicacy, and making them at home is a way to carry on a beloved tradition while adding your personal touch.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
-
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
-
2 large eggs
-
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1 1/2 cups pecan halves, chopped if preferred
Directions
1. Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan or line it with paper liners for easier cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft, cohesive dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but easy to handle.
2. Form the Tassies
Divide the dough into small portions, roughly one tablespoon each, and press them into the mini muffin cups to form a small cup shape with a slightly thicker bottom and thinner edges. Take care to ensure the dough is evenly spread to avoid cracks while baking. This is where your hands become your best tools—gentle pressure is key.
3. Make the Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and melted butter, stirring until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and salt. Mix until well incorporated. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they are evenly coated with the sugary mixture.
4. Fill the Crusts
Carefully spoon the pecan filling into each mini dough cup, filling about three-quarters of the way. Be mindful not to overfill, as the filling will expand slightly during baking. A small cookie scoop or a teaspoon works perfectly for portioning the filling evenly.
5. Bake the Tassies
Place the mini muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust begins to turn a light golden brown. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes, as the mini pies can brown quickly. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the tassies cool completely before removing them from the cups.
6. Serve and Store
Once cooled, the Pecan Tassies are ready to enjoy. They can be served as part of a dessert platter, alongside coffee or tea, or as a festive treat at any gathering. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze for longer storage. To freeze, place the cooled tassies on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Tassies
-
Use room-temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and cream cheese are softened will make the dough easier to work with and prevent cracks.
-
Chill if needed: If the dough feels too soft or sticky, chilling it for 15–20 minutes can make it easier to handle.
-
Even filling distribution: For uniform baking, try to keep the filling level consistent across all cups. A small cookie scoop or measuring spoon ensures even portions.
-
Prevent over-browning: If the edges of your tassies brown too quickly, cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.
-
Decorative touches: Sprinkle a few extra pecan halves on top before baking for a visually appealing finish.
Variations on Classic Pecan Tassies
Chocolate Drizzle
Add a decadent twist by drizzling melted dark or milk chocolate over cooled tassies. This simple touch elevates the presentation and adds a layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the nutty filling.
Maple Pecan Tassies
For a warm, autumnal flavor, substitute the vanilla extract with pure maple syrup in the filling. The subtle maple notes complement the pecans perfectly, making them an ideal choice for Thanksgiving or cozy fall gatherings.
Mini Pecan Tassie Sandwiches
Get creative by sandwiching two tassies together with a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting in between. This transforms the classic treat into a fun, bite-sized dessert that kids and adults alike will adore.
Why Pecan Tassies Are Perfect for Holidays and Gatherings
Pecan Tassies are more than just a sweet treat—they are a versatile and elegant addition to any dessert table. Their miniature size makes them ideal for portion control while still delivering rich, indulgent flavor. They are perfect for:
-
Holiday gatherings: Bite-sized desserts are a crowd favorite, allowing guests to sample multiple treats without overindulging.
-
Cookie exchanges: Tassies are unique enough to stand out among traditional cookies, making them a memorable addition.
-
Gift-giving: Packaged in festive boxes or tins, Pecan Tassies make thoughtful homemade gifts that show you care.
-
Afternoon tea or coffee breaks: Serve these mini pies with a hot beverage for a comforting, indulgent experience.
The Secret to an Irresistible Tassie
What makes Pecan Tassies truly special is the combination of a buttery, tender crust with a sweet, nutty filling that has just the right texture. The filling should be gooey but set, with the pecans providing a satisfying crunch in every bite. Using quality ingredients—fresh butter, high-quality cream cheese, and fresh pecans—ensures that each tassie is a little piece of perfection.
A small tip: letting the tassies cool completely before serving allows the filling to set perfectly, preventing any messy spills and making them easier to handle. Presentation is key, especially if you plan to serve them at gatherings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a delicate drizzle of chocolate can elevate the appearance without complicating the process.
Pairing Ideas
Pecan Tassies pair beautifully with a range of beverages and accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:
-
Coffee: A bold coffee or espresso complements the sweetness of the filling.
-
Tea: Light teas, such as Earl Grey or chamomile, balance the richness of the pecan filling.
-
Whipped cream or ice cream: Adding a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms the mini pies into a delightful dessert experience.
-
Fruit compote: A tart berry compote adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, nutty flavors.
Making Pecan Tassies a Family Tradition
Baking Pecan Tassies can become a cherished family tradition. Involving children or loved ones in the process—from pressing the dough to spooning the filling—creates opportunities for bonding and shared memories. The mini size also makes it easier for kids to enjoy, and decorating the tassies together can turn the kitchen into a festive, creative space.
By making Pecan Tassies a holiday staple, you carry on the spirit of Southern baking while putting your own unique spin on the classic recipe. Over time, your personal touches—be it a hint of cinnamon, a dash of maple, or a chocolate drizzle—will become part of the family lore, making every batch a reminder of warmth, love, and shared joy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing the dough ahead of time is a great way to save time on busy baking days. You can make the dough up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Chilling the dough slightly before using it can also make it easier to handle, especially if your kitchen is warm. When you’re ready to assemble the tassies, simply remove the dough from the fridge, let it soften for a few minutes if needed, and then press it into the mini muffin cups. This prep-ahead method is particularly useful during the holidays or when baking for a large gathering, as it allows you to spread the work over multiple days without sacrificing quality.
2. Can I use a store-bought crust instead?
While a homemade cream cheese crust provides the best flavor and texture, you can use store-bought dough in a pinch. Pre-made crusts save time and are convenient for quick baking, but keep in mind that the flavor may not be as rich, and the texture could be slightly different from traditional tassies. If using pre-made dough, roll it out gently and press it carefully into the mini muffin cups to mimic the thickness and structure of homemade dough. Adding a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese to the dough can help improve flavor and tenderness.
3. How do I prevent the crust from cracking?
To avoid cracks, it’s important to use softened butter and cream cheese. Work gently when pressing the dough into the mini muffin cups, taking care not to stretch the edges too thin. If the dough becomes difficult to handle, a short chill in the refrigerator can make it more pliable.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. The texture may be slightly different, but the rich flavor of the pecan filling will remain just as delicious.
5. Can I freeze Pecan Tassies?
Yes! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the tassies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best results.
Pecan Tassies Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24–30 mini tassies 1x
Description
A bite-sized twist on the classic pecan pie, Pecan Tassies are rich, buttery, and perfect for holidays, cozy evenings, or festive gatherings. These mini treats feature a tender cream cheese crust filled with a sweet, nutty pecan filling, making them a crowd favorite and a timeless Southern dessert tradition.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
-
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
-
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
-
2 large eggs
-
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1 1/2 cups pecan halves, chopped if preferred
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan or line with paper liners.
-
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
-
Divide the dough into tablespoon-sized portions and press each into the mini muffin cups to form small cups with slightly thicker bottoms.
-
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and melted butter, then beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Fold in the chopped pecans.
-
Spoon the filling into each dough cup, filling about three-quarters full.
-
Bake for 20–25 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is lightly golden. Allow to cool completely before removing from the pan.
-
Serve at room temperature or store in an airtight container for up to five days.
Notes
-
Dough can be made up to two days ahead and refrigerated.
-
For a decorative touch, add extra pecans on top or drizzle with chocolate.
-
Tassies can be frozen after cooling for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
