Introduction
Get ready to fall in love with a truly timeless dessert: Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies! These delightful little treats are like miniature pecan pies, nestled in a tender, slightly tangy cream cheese crust. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors, making them an absolute joy for any occasion. They bring back memories of grandma’s kitchen and simpler times.
You might think such a delicious dessert would be complicated to make, but you’d be delightfully wrong! Pecan Tassies are surprisingly easy to prepare. The crust comes together quickly, and the filling is a simple mix-and-pour affair. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have these charming pastries ready to impress in no time at all.
So, whether you’re looking for a perfect holiday treat, a lovely addition to your dessert table, or just a sweet pick-me-up, these Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies are calling your name. Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s bring a little bit of sweet nostalgia into your home. You’re going to adore them!
Cooking Time & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Small tip: You can prepare the dough for the crust a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This makes assembly even quicker on baking day!
Ingredients
This recipe makes approximately 24 mini pecan tassies.
For the Cream Cheese Crust
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1: Prepare the Crust Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and softened butter. Beat them together with an electric mixer until they are light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure there are no lumps.
Small tip: Ensure your cream cheese and butter are truly at room temperature. This helps them cream together smoothly and prevents a lumpy dough.
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Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients to Crust
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the cream cheese and butter mixture. Mix on low speed until the flour is just incorporated and a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the crust tough.
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Step 3: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a flat disc, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it much easier to handle and prevents it from sticking.
Small tip: While the dough chills, you can start preparing your filling ingredients to save time.
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Step 4: Prepare Muffin Tins
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease 24 mini muffin cups. You can use non-stick spray or a dab of butter. This ensures your tassies will pop out easily after baking.
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Step 5: Form the Crust Shells
Take one disc of chilled dough from the refrigerator. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter or the rim of a small glass to cut out circles. Gently press each circle into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared mini muffin cups.
Small tip: If the dough becomes too warm and sticky, return it to the fridge for a few minutes. Work with one disc at a time.
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Step 6: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. Add the granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This forms the delicious base for your filling.
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Step 7: Add Pecans to Filling
Gently fold in the chopped pecans into the egg and sugar mixture. Make sure the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the filling. This ensures every tassie gets a good amount of nutty goodness.
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Step 8: Fill the Tassie Shells
Carefully spoon the pecan filling into each prepared crust shell. Fill them about two-thirds of the way full. The filling will puff up slightly during baking, so don’t overfill them.
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Step 9: Bake the Pecan Tassies
Place the muffin tins in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crusts are lightly golden brown and the filling is set. The filling should look firm and slightly puffed in the center.
Small tip: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your tassies, especially during the last few minutes, to prevent over-baking.
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Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the muffin tins from the oven. Let the tassies cool in the tins for about 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully remove them and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They are best served at room temperature or slightly warm.
Tips & Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: To make these tassies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your chosen blend contains xanthan gum for best results.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Option: For a vegan version, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative, vegan butter sticks, and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) for the filling. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious. This recipe is naturally vegetarian.
- Added Nutrients: Boost the health factor by adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseeds to the filling mixture. These add extra fiber and omega-3s without significantly altering the taste.
- Spicy Kick: For a delightful twist, add a tiny pinch (1/8 teaspoon) of cayenne pepper or a dash of ground ginger to the pecan filling. It adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts! Try almond extract instead of vanilla for a distinct flavor, or add a teaspoon of bourbon to the filling for a sophisticated touch. You can also sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a spiced version.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 24 servings):
- Calories: 145
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fat: 10g
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands and exact quantities of ingredients used.
Health Benefits
While Pecan Tassies are a sweet treat, some of their main ingredients offer wonderful health benefits, especially the star of the show – pecans!
Pecans are packed with healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These are known to be good for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels. They are a delicious way to support your cardiovascular system.
These humble nuts are also a fantastic source of dietary fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health, helping to keep things moving smoothly. It also contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can be helpful in managing appetite.
Beyond fats and fiber, pecans provide a good amount of antioxidants. These powerful compounds help fight off free radicals in the body, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Pecans also offer important minerals like manganese, copper, and zinc, which are vital for various bodily functions, including immune support and bone health.
Eggs, another key ingredient, are a great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. They also contain choline, which is important for brain health, and various vitamins like D and B12. So, while enjoying your tassie, know you’re getting a little boost of goodness!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a delightful dessert after any meal. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.
- Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for an elegant afternoon snack. Their small size makes them ideal for a little indulgence.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra special treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce would also be divine!
- These tassies are wonderful for potlucks or bake sales. They’re easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Pecan Tassies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap individual tassies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Conclusion
And there you have it – your very own batch of Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies! These little beauties are more than just a dessert; they’re a bite of pure comfort and tradition. The tender, buttery crust combined with the rich, sweet pecan filling creates a harmony of flavors that is truly irresistible. They are proof that some of the best things in life are simple and classic.
Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how easily these elegant treats come together, and the reward of their deliciousness is absolutely worth it. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen, just as it has been for generations.
So, bake a batch, share them with your loved ones, and watch their faces light up with every bite. These Old Fashioned Pecan Tassies are perfect for creating new memories while honoring the sweet traditions of the past. Happy baking, my friends!
