Pecan Tassies Recipe

Pecan tassies are the perfect bite-sized treat for pecan pie lovers. These delightful little pastries combine a buttery, flaky crust with a rich, sweet pecan filling that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special gathering, or simply craving something sweet, pecan tassies are a versatile dessert that never disappoints. This guide will walk you through every step to ensure your tassies turn out flawless every time.

What Are Pecan Tassies?

Pecan tassies are small, tart-like pastries that resemble mini pecan pies. They are made with a cream cheese-based crust filled with a mixture of pecans, brown sugar, butter, and eggs. Originating in Southern kitchens, pecan tassies have become a staple at festive gatherings due to their rich flavor and convenient size. Perfect for snacking or serving at parties, they deliver a luxurious dessert experience in just a few bites.

Ingredients for Pecan Tassies

To create the perfect pecan tassies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 1 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Pro Tip: Use fresh pecans for the best flavor. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the filling.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Before diving into the recipe, gather these tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Muffin tin (mini or standard size)
• Rolling pin
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Wire cooling rack

These tools ensure precision and consistency, helping you achieve professional-quality pecan tassies every time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pecan Tassies

1. Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add flour and mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling makes the dough easier to handle and prevents it from shrinking during baking.

Tip: Don’t overmix the dough, as this can make it tough.

2. Making the Filling

1. In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Stir in the chopped pecans. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
3. If desired, add a dash of cinnamon or rum extract for extra depth of flavor.
4. Assembling the Tassies
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
6. Roll the chilled dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Press each ball into the muffin tin, forming a cup shape.
7. Fill each cup with the pecan mixture, ensuring it doesn’t overflow.
8. Use a spoon to adjust the filling level if needed.

Baking to Perfection

1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and allow the tassies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips for Enhancing Your Pecan Tassies

• Add a Twist: Try incorporating dark chocolate chips or a splash of bourbon into the filling.
• Decorative Touch: Garnish with whole pecan halves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Overfilling the Cups: Leads to spillage and uneven baking. Always leave a small gap at the top.
• Underbaked Dough: Check for a light golden color on the edges.
• Filling Separation: Mix ingredients thoroughly to prevent this.

How to Store Pecan Tassies

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and flavor of your pecan tassies. Here’s how you can keep them perfect:

Room Temperature

• Store pecan tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Line the container with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Refrigeration

• For extended freshness, store tassies in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
• Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing

• Pecan tassies freeze well for up to three months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Thaw at room temperature for an hour before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan tassies are versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways:

Pair with Beverages

• Serve with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Pair with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Presentation Ideas

• Arrange tassies on a tiered dessert stand for an elegant display.
• Add them to a dessert platter with cookies, brownies, and other small treats for variety.

Special Occasions

• Use festive liners or sprinkle edible glitter for a holiday-themed presentation.
• Serve them at weddings, birthdays, or potlucks for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to make pecan tassies your go-to dessert:

• Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the combination of buttery crust and sweet pecan filling.
• Customizable: Adjust flavors, textures, and presentations to suit any occasion.

Pecan tassies are a delicious way to bring a little sweetness to any event, big or small.

Healthier Variations

Craving pecan tassies but want a healthier option? Here are some simple substitutions:

Reduce Sugar

• Cut the brown sugar in the filling by half or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Alternative Flours

• Replace all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for a gluten-free version.

Dairy-Free Options

• Use vegan butter and a plant-based cream cheese substitute for a dairy-free crust.

Low-Calorie Ingredients

• Swap regular butter with a light butter alternative.
• Use egg substitutes or flax eggs in the filling.

FAQs About Pecan Tassies

Q: Can I make the dough in advance?
A: Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. Thaw the frozen dough in the fridge overnight before using.

Q: What if I don’t have a mini muffin tin?
A: You can use a standard muffin tin, but you’ll need to increase the baking time slightly and adjust the dough and filling proportions.

Q: Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
A: Yes, walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts can be substituted for pecans to create different flavors.

Q: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during baking?
A: Avoid overfilling the cups and ensure the dough is pressed tightly into the muffin tin to prevent gaps.

Q: Can pecan tassies be made vegan?
A: Yes! Use vegan butter, a plant-based cream cheese alternative, and flax eggs in place of regular eggs for a vegan-friendly version.

Conclusion

Pecan tassies are a timeless dessert that’s both elegant and comforting. With their buttery crust and sweet pecan filling, they’re perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simply indulging your sweet tooth. Follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a batch of delicious pecan tassies that are sure to impress.

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