These Mini Pecan Pies are the ultimate fall dessert, combining a buttery shortbread crust with a classic, rich pecan filling. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests. With their delightful crunch and sweet flavor, they are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make these pies accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Perfect Portions: Each mini pie is just the right size for a sweet treat without overindulging.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and pecans creates a rich flavor that pairs well with various toppings, like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Ideal for Gatherings: These mini pies are perfect for parties, potlucks, and holiday dinners; everyone will love grabbing one (or two!).
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare and freeze these pies ahead of time, saving you valuable time on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating these delicious Mini Pecan Pies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping the mini pies. It ensures even baking and helps maintain their structure.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to easily separate dry and wet ingredients without confusion.
Ingredients
These mini pecan pies are made with a buttery shortbread crust and a classic pecan pie filling. The perfect fall dessert to add to the Thanksgiving or Christmas dessert menu.
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup cold butter
For the Filling
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecan
How to Make Mini Pecan Pies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your pies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Lightly spray two 12-cup muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to remove the pies once baked.
Step 3: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into each muffin cup to form a crust layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until slightly golden.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, dark corn syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Pour this mixture over each baked crust in the muffin tins until nearly full.
Step 5: Bake Again
Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and lightly browned on top.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the mini pecan pies to cool in the tins for about 10 minutes before removing them. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat!
With these easy steps, you’ll have delicious Mini Pecan Pies ready to wow your guests!
How to Serve Mini Pecan Pies
Mini pecan pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these pies will impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your mini pecan pies experience.
A La Mode
- Serve each mini pecan pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the rich filling.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the flavors of the caramel-like filling.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- For chocolate lovers, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the pies to create a decadent dessert experience.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Pair mini pecan pies with fresh berries or sliced apples for a refreshing balance to the sweetness.
Served at Room Temperature
- Allowing the mini pecan pies to cool slightly before serving brings out their flavors and makes them easier to eat.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pairing these treats with a cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon snack or dessert option.
How to Perfect Mini Pecan Pies
Creating perfect mini pecan pies takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out just right.
Use cold butter: Ensuring that your butter is cold helps create a flaky crust that holds up well under the filling.
Chop pecans uniformly: Evenly chopped pecans not only look better but also provide consistent texture throughout each pie.
Don’t overfill: Fill each crust just below the rim to prevent spilling during baking and ensure even cooking.
Blind bake the crusts: Pre-baking the shortbread crust for a few minutes can help maintain its structure when filled with the gooey mixture.
Best Side Dishes for Mini Pecan Pies
When serving mini pecan pies, complementing them with side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness of the pies.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity, which contrast nicely with the rich filling.
Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or brie for an interesting flavor combination alongside sweet desserts.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts can add crunch and warmth, making them an excellent accompaniment.
Chocolate Fondue: Create an interactive dessert experience by providing chocolate fondue with fruits and pretzels for dipping.
Coffee Cake: A slice of moist coffee cake makes for a delightful addition that pairs well with both coffee and desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making mini pecan pies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your pies turn out perfect.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to a tough crust. Always chill your shortbread crust before baking for a flaky texture.
- Overfilling the pies: Filling the tins too much can cause overflow and mess. Aim for about ¾ full to allow space for the filling to expand.
- Using warm butter: Warm butter can make the crust greasy. Make sure your butter is cold when preparing the dough for best results.
- Ignoring baking times: Not following the recommended baking time can lead to undercooked or burnt pies. Keep an eye on them and adjust as needed.
- Not letting them cool: Cutting into your mini pecan pies too soon can result in a messy filling. Allow them to cool completely before serving for cleaner slices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store mini pecan pies in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Mini Pecan Pies
- Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- Mini pecan pies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Mini Pecan Pies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F; heat individual pies for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat for 20-30 seconds; watch closely to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, cover, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions when it comes to making mini pecan pies. Here are some common inquiries answered.
How do I make my Mini Pecan Pies healthier?
You can substitute some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or reduce the amount of corn syrup used.
Can I customize my Mini Pecan Pies?
Absolutely! Add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even different nuts for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
What should I serve with Mini Pecan Pies?
Mini pecan pies pair wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Can I make these Mini Pecan Pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and bake them a day ahead. Just store them properly and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
These mini pecan pies are not only delightful but also versatile, making them perfect for any holiday gathering. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients or toppings to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite of these charming desserts!
Mini Pecan Pies
Mini Pecan Pies are the ultimate comfort dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling, these bite-sized delights are an irresistible treat for your holiday gatherings. Ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas celebrations, they offer a delightful crunch and sweet flavor that will impress your guests without overwhelming them. Easy to make and visually appealing, Mini Pecan Pies are a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of warmth and sweetness to their festive dessert table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Makes approximately 24 mini pecan pies.
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup cold butter
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray two muffin tins with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix flour and brown sugar, then cut in cold butter until crumbly. Press into muffin cups to form crusts and bake for 10 minutes.
- Whisk together eggs, dark corn syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in another bowl; stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour the filling into each baked crust until almost full. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until set.
- Cool in tins for about 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini pie (45g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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