In a world where dessert dreams come true, mini pecan pies reign supreme.
a buttery, flaky crust cradling a luscious filling that’s both sweet and nutty. Each bite is like a warm hug from Grandma, making it the perfect treat for holidays or just because you feel like indulging. Imagine serving these beauties at your next gathering; they’ll disappear faster than you can say “pecan pie.”
Now let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I tried mini pecan pies at a family gathering—my Aunt Marge had spent all day baking them. The aroma wafted through the house like a siren’s call, drawing everyone into the kitchen. I was so enchanted by their tiny size and big flavor that I may have accidentally eaten three before dinner. But hey, who could blame me?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These mini pecan pies are simple to make yet burst with flavor that will impress everyone around your table.
- Their adorable size makes them perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
- The sweet and nutty filling paired with flaky crust creates an irresistible combination that will leave you craving more.
- Ideal for any occasion—holidays or just a cozy night in with your favorite movie.
I’ll never forget my friends’ reactions when I surprised them with these little delights—they were practically begging for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pecan Nuts: Use fresh, unsalted nuts for the best flavor; chop them roughly for added texture.
- Brown Sugar: Go for light brown sugar; it adds depth and that caramel-like sweetness every pie needs.
- Maple Syrup: This gives your filling that delightful richness; real maple syrup is worth the splurge.
- Eggs: Essential for binding everything together; fresh eggs will ensure the best results.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the pie’s flavor balance; melt it before adding.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract enhances sweetness and adds warmth to each bite.
- Pie Crusts: You can use store-bought or homemade; both work wonderfully in this recipe.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the filling and crusts. A hot oven ensures even baking.
Prepare the crusts: If using store-bought pie dough, roll it out on a floured surface and cut out circles that fit your muffin tin. Press them gently into each cup.
Make the filling: In a bowl, mix together chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Fill the crusts: Spoon the nutty filling into each prepared crust until they’re about three-quarters full—this leaves room for puffing up while baking.
Bake to perfection: Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly bubbly around the edges.
Cool down: Once baked, allow your mini pecan pies to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack.
These steps create perfectly baked mini pecan pies that are sure to be a hit! With their delightful aroma wafting through your home as they bake, you’ll find it tough not to sneak one before they cool completely!
You Must Know
- Mini pecan pies are a delightful treat that combines sweet, crunchy, and buttery flavors.
- These bite-sized wonders make perfect desserts for any gathering or cozy night in.
- Their rich aroma fills the kitchen, bringing smiles to everyone who catches a whiff.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Use a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. Start with the crusts, then prepare your filling while they bake. This method keeps everything organized and ensures a perfectly crispy crust with a gooey center.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or add chocolate chips for extra indulgence. A splash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor profile, making these mini pecan pies uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mini pecan pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through without losing their delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a flaky crust, handle the dough minimally; overworking it can lead to toughness.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother filling.
- Allow your mini pecan pies to cool before serving; this helps them set better and enhances flavor.
I once made mini pecan pies for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “pecan.” My cousin even asked if I had hidden more in my secret stash!
FAQ
What can I substitute for pecans in mini pecan pies?
Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes if you’re looking for variety.
Can I make mini pecan pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
How long do mini pecan pies last?
They stay fresh for about four days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Mini Pecan Pies
Delight in these bite-sized mini pecan pies, featuring a flaky crust filled with a rich, sweet pecan mixture. Perfect for any occasion!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan nuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 package (about 12) mini pie crusts or homemade crusts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fit the mini pie crusts into a muffin tin.
- In a bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
- Fill each crust with the mixture until about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until filling is set and slightly bubbly.
- Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- For variety, consider substituting pecans with walnuts or adding chocolate chips.
- These pies can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to four days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
