The kitchen was filled with a warm, nutty aroma as I baked my favorite family recipe: Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies. I loved how these bite-sized treasures seemed to whisk me back to my childhood, a time filled with laughter and cozy gatherings around the dining table. The first taste—sweet brown sugar mingling with rich butter and crunchy pecans—never fails to transport me to those cherished moments.
These delightful tarts are not only a nod to nostalgia but also a perfect solution for anyone seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s simple to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 48 minutes to make, Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies turn out beautifully with golden-brown tops and inviting caramel interiors. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a potluck, or simply looking to indulge your sweet tooth without the fuss, these miniature wonders promise to impress. Join me on this culinary journey, and let’s create some sweet memories together!
Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
- These Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert in just 48 minutes.
- The delightful combination of sweet brown sugar, rich butter, and crunchy pecans creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Their cute, bite-sized portions make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck.
- With their golden-brown tops and inviting caramel interiors, these tarts not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table.
Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies Ingredients
Get ready to create some magical tarts!
For the Crust
- Salted butter – 3/4 cup; ensures a rich, flavorful base for your tarts.
- Cream cheese – 5 ounces; adds a creamy texture to the crust.
- All-purpose flour – 1 1/2 cups; provides the structure needed for tender, flaky tarts.
For the Filling
- Dark brown sugar – 1 ½ cups; offers a deep sweetness and a lovely caramel flavor.
- Salted butter (melted) – 2 tablespoons; enhances the richness of the filling.
- Large eggs – 2; acts as a binder to bring all the ingredients together.
- Maple extract – ½ teaspoon; infuses a subtle hint of maple that perfectly complements the pecans.
- Finely chopped pecans – ½ cup; adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
For Topping
- Pecan halves – 36; use these for a beautiful and inviting presentation on each tart.
These Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies are sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
How to Make Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
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Cream Together: In a small bowl, grab your hand mixer and cream together the salted butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. You want it to look well combined and fluffy!
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Prepare the Pans: Spray three mini muffin pans with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Using a mini cookie scoop, evenly divide the dough into all 36 cups. Chill the pans in the fridge as you prepare the filling.
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Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, maple extract, and finely chopped pecans until fully blended and smooth. This mixture will create your delicious tart filling!
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Preheat and Shape: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. After the dough has chilled for about 15 minutes, take one pan out and gently press the dough to form cups on the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cavity. Repeat with the other pan until all are shaped.
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Fill and Garnish: Carefully fill each dough shell with the pecan mixture, filling them about ⅔ full. Top each filled cup with a pecan half for a lovely finish!
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Bake to Perfection: Place the pans in the oven and bake for about 18 minutes or until the tarts are golden brown on top. Once done, let them cool slightly before loosening them with a knife and transferring to a cooling rack.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Room Temperature: Store the cooled tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while also retaining their delightful flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, these tarts can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just make sure they are well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, place the tassies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a 350ºF oven for about 5-10 minutes for that freshly-baked taste.
Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies Variations
Feel free to play around with these delightful twists for a truly unique take on your Pecan Tassies!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-friendly treat. This allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the same scrumptious flavor you’d expect!
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Nut-Free: Swap out pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds; they still deliver a satisfying crunch without the allergens. These alternatives add a different nutty essence while keeping the tart’s essence intact.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips to the filling for a luscious chocolate surprise in every bite. The rich chocolate will elevate the sweetness and create a luxurious twist everyone will adore.
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Vegan: For a plant-based option, use coconut oil in place of butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and flax eggs to substitute the eggs. This variation keeps all the delightful flavors intact while accommodating vegan diets.
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Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling blend for warming spices that dance harmoniously with the pecans. A little extra spice introduces warmth and coziness—perfect for chilly evenings.
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Maple Pecan: Replace the brown sugar with pure maple syrup for an authentically rich maple flavor. This adjustment changes the flavor profile entirely, evoking memories of sweet, golden mornings.
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Salted Caramel Drizzle: After cooling, make a quick salted caramel sauce to drizzle over each tassie. The salty-sweet combination is an irresistible addition that elevates these treats to gourmet status.
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Fruit Twist: Incorporate finely chopped apples or pears in the filling for a fruity surprise. This not only adds a refreshing burst of flavor but also a delightful texture contrast that will intrigue your taste buds.
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough and fill the muffin pans up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just give it a good stir before using to maintain its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, fill each tart shell, and pop them into the oven! With these steps, you’ll have delicious, homemade tarts ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies?
Imagine delightful tarts paired perfectly with comforting sides to create an unforgettable meal experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing burst that balances the sweetness of the tassies.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping offers a luscious finish that enhances every bite of these nutty delights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The warm, gooey center of the tassies paired with cold ice cream is a comforting contrast sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted chocolate drizzled over the tarts brings a decadent twist that elevates their flavor.
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Coffee or Tea: The rich, warm notes of coffee or a comforting cup of tea make for a lovely beverage pairing, further enhancing the dessert experience.
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Spiced Pumpkin Muffins: For a cozy twist, serve these alongside the tassies for a layered flavor profile, as the spices beautifully complement the maple in the tarts.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies, ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier creaming and a smoother dough.
- Avoid overmixing the crust to maintain its tender texture, as excessive mixing can lead to tough tarts.
- For the filling, make sure to mix your ingredients thoroughly to get an even distribution of flavors and texture in every tart.
- Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary; it’s better to check a minute early to prevent over-baking and ensure the tops remain golden but not burnt.
Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pecans for my Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies?
It’s best to choose fresh pecans that are plump and free from dark spots or rancid smells. Fresh pecans will deliver that delightful crunch you crave in your tassies. Look for whole pecans that are firm, not shriveled, and avoid any that show signs of mold or have an off smell.
How should I store my Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies for optimal freshness?
Absolutely! After they’ve cooled completely, store your tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best taste and texture. If you’re storing them in the fridge, they can last up to 1 week—just be sure they’re well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these tasty treats! Begin by allowing the baked tassies to cool completely. Next, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, take them out, thaw at room temperature, or reheat in a 350ºF oven for about 5-10 minutes.
What if my filling seems too runny while preparing the Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies?
If your filling is too runny, it might be due to the eggs not being fully blended or added in too quickly. Ensure you mix the filling ingredients thoroughly until smooth—this will help achieve that perfect custardy texture. If needed, you could also add a bit more finely chopped pecans to thicken it up slightly.
Are these Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies safe for people with nut allergies?
It’s important to note that pecans are a type of nut, so these tassies are not suitable for anyone with nut allergies. If you’re looking for an alternative dessert, consider a chocolate tart or fruit-based treat—there are plenty of options that can be just as delightful without nuts!
Can I substitute ingredients in my Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies?
The more the merrier! You can substitute the dark brown sugar with light brown sugar for a milder flavor, though it may alter the depth of sweetness. If you want a non-dairy option, you could try using dairy-free cream cheese—just be sure to adjust the butter accordingly to keep the texture right.
Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, grab your hand mixer and cream together the salted butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. You want it to look well combined and fluffy!
- Spray three mini muffin pans with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Using a mini cookie scoop, evenly divide the dough into all 36 cups. Chill the pans in the fridge as you prepare the filling.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the dark brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, maple extract, and finely chopped pecans until fully blended and smooth. This mixture will create your delicious tart filling!
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF. After the dough has chilled for about 15 minutes, take one pan out and gently press the dough to form cups on the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cavity. Repeat with the other pan until all are shaped.
- Carefully fill each dough shell with the pecan mixture, filling them about ⅔ full. Top each filled cup with a pecan half for a lovely finish!
- Place the pans in the oven and bake for about 18 minutes or until the tarts are golden brown on top. Once done, let them cool slightly before loosening them with a knife and transferring to a cooling rack.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!
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