Description

Pecan tassies are delightful little confections that combine the creamy richness of cream cheese dough with a custardy filling studded with crunchy pecans. Inspired by the southern classic pecan pie, these bite-sized treats capture the same beloved flavors but in a charming and manageable mini version. The sweetness of the brown sugar harmonizes beautifully with the nuttiness of the pecans and a hint of vanilla extract, making each tassie an irresistible morsel that will have you reaching for another.

Originating from the southern United States, pecans are not just nuts but a cultural icon, embodying warmth and hospitality. Pecan tassies are often featured on holiday tables and at family gatherings, where they become a cherished favorite among guests. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for parties, potlucks, and any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family with a homemade treat.

Beyond being delicious, pecan tassies are surprisingly simple to make, even for novice bakers. With a few straightforward ingredients, you’ll be whisking together a rich, custardy filling and a tender, flaky crust in no time. Through this recipe, we’ll guide you step by step to create these delightful tartlets that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Let’s get started on making these delectable little goodies!

Ingredients

• To make these scrumptious pecan tassies, you will need the following ingredients:
• For the Dough:
• 1. 1 ½ cups butter, softened to room temperature
• 2. 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened (adds richness and depth of flavor)
• 3. 1 egg yolk (helps prevent shrinking during baking)
• 4. 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour (measured lightly for the perfect texture)
• For the Filling:
• 1. 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2. 4 large eggs (these bring that gooey, custardy texture)
• 3. 2 ¼ cups packed brown sugar (for that caramel-like sweetness)
• 4. 4 teaspoons vanilla extract (the primary flavor that complements the pecans)
• 5. 2 ¾ cups pecans, chopped (almond or walnut could work too, but pecans are traditional)
• Helpful Variations and Substitutions:
• 1. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• 2. For a nuttier flavor, toast your pecans before chopping them.
• 3. If you prefer a sweeter or less sweet filling, adjust the amount of brown sugar.
• 4. A pinch of sea salt in the filling can enhance the flavors beautifully.

Preparation Method

Step 1: Making the Dough

To begin with, let’s prepare the dough, which is a delightful combination of butter and cream cheese that brings an impressive richness to the base of your tassies. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and cream cheese. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, mix them together on medium speed until well combined and creamy—about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even mix; no one wants to bite into a lump of unmixed ingredients!

Next, add in the egg yolk. This step is crucial, as the egg yolk plays a key role in reducing dough shrinkage during baking. Mix again until the yolk is thoroughly combined with the butter and cream cheese.

Now, it’s time to incorporate the flour. Here, you can take a couple of approaches. The purist in you might want to sift the flour, but if you’re looking for a quicker route, simply scoop the flour into your measuring cup lightly without packing it down. Overfill the cup, then level it off with a knife. This method prevents too much flour from getting into your dough, which can lead to toughness. Mix the flour into the butter mixture until just combined. The dough should be sticky but manageable, not overly wet.

Once your dough has reached the right consistency, transfer it to a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes. This resting time lets the dough firm up, making it easier to work with later on.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling

While the dough is chilling, let’s move on to crafting the luscious filling. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and eggs until they’re well combined—about 1-2 minutes should do the trick. Next, mix in the packed brown sugar and vanilla extract until you obtain a smooth mixture. Watch as the sugar dissolves, creating a rich, glossy filling that’s reminiscent of that classic pecan pie texture we all love.

Now it’s time to add the star of the show: those lovely pecans! For a rustic touch, hand-chop the pecans into medium-sized pieces; this will give your filling a pleasing texture. If you opt for a food processor, just be cautious not to grind the nuts too finely; you want pleasant bites of pecan throughout your tassies, not nut dust. Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture and set it aside for now.

Step 3: Assembling Your Tassies

Now comes the most enjoyable part—assembling your pecan tassies! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and take out your chilled dough from the fridge. Grab a mini muffin tin; you’ll want at least a 24-cup capacity to get the most out of this recipe.

Using a teaspoon measuring spoon, scoop a small amount of dough—around 1 tablespoon should suffice for each cup. Roll it into a ball and place it in the bottom of the mini muffin tin, then gently press it down and up the sides to create a little cup. If the dough tears or becomes too thin in an area, don’t fret! Just press it back together; this dough is very forgiving.

Once you’ve filled all the muffin cups with dough, take your prepared filling, and using another teaspoon, fill each dough cup nearly to the brim. Avoid overfilling; you’ll want the filling to stay secure within the dough cup as it bakes, keeping those beautiful heights and shapes intact.

Step 4: Baking the Tassies

Place your filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep a watchful eye—you're looking for a golden-brown color on the tops and a slightly crackled appearance, similar to a pecan pie. You can do a gentle jiggle test; if the filling is set and doesn’t move around too much, they’re done!

Once baked to perfection, remove the tin from the oven. The aroma will be heavenly! Allow the tassies to cool in the tin for about 10-15 minutes; this initial cooling helps them set further and makes it easier to remove them. If you greased the tin well, they should pop out effortlessly. If they’re a little stubborn, run a small knife around the edges to loosen them.

Tips and Conclusion

These pecan tassies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness. If you’d like to freeze them, just wrap each tassie individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. You can also elevate your serving by drizzling them with a bit of caramel sauce or serving them alongside whipped cream, making for a delectable dessert moment with a touch of indulgence.
And there you have it—deliciously rich and satisfying pecan tassies that are as enjoyable to make as they are to eat. These little treasures pack a punch of flavor and are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share a plate with you. Prepare to delight your family and friends with this simple yet elegant treat, perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a cozy dessert at home.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like to explore other delightful treats from our collection, such as Chocolate Chip Cookies, Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars, or Sticky Toffee Pudding. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and invite them to join in the celebrations with these delightful pecan tassies. Happy baking and enjoy every scrumptious bite!